Programs to Help Low Income Families

Raising a family is expensive, and there may be times when your paycheck just can't cover everything, no matter how hard you work or cut back on spending. Fortunately, there are programs that can help.

Help With Heating and Energy Bills

Every state has a Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help people cover heating and energy costs. This is an income-based program, and eligibility requirements vary by state.

SNAP (Food Stamps)

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is the new name for the federal Food Stamp program. SNAP helps low-income families provide healthy meals for their families.

Food Banks

Food banks offer immediate help to hungry families. Eligibility requirements vary, but are usually based on income, debts, and family size.

Rental Assistance

HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) offers rental assistance programs and housing for low-income families. You can get help paying rent on an approved private home, or move into a HUD-owned apartment.

Angel Food Ministries

Angel Food Ministries offers low-cost food packages to anyone, regardless of income.

Finding Help

Contact your local department of social services to apply for government services. To locate a food bank, look under "social service organizations" in the phone book, contact a local church, or ask someone at social services.

References

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
• SNAP
• HUD

Resources

• Angel Food Ministries
• Food Bank Listings By State