How to find assistance for food and bills

Whether you are a single parent, recently lost your job or just need help you are not alone. Due to the struggling economy there are millions of people right here in America facing the same issues. Did you know that there are programs available to you that provide food assistance, Home energy assistance, rental assistance and more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Assistance with food
   
   The first step is to contact your local Social Services office and apply for food stamps (monthly food coupons) and Tanf (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.).
   
   The government has federal grant money that they give to each state to provide assistance to low income families with financial needs.
2. Assistance with rent
   
   You can apply for rental assistance through section 8. Ask your Social service worker for the phone number to the Section 8 housing authority in your area.
3. Assistance with heating bills
   
   You can apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)for help with your heating bills. You can apply for this program through your Social Service office or contact you heating supplier for the phone number to the Energy assistance program in your area.
   
   * See link in resource section below
4. Help for women, infants and children
   
   The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children - better known as the WIC Program - serves to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, & children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating, and referrals to health care.
   
   * see the link in the resource section below
5. These programs have been put in place to provide assistance to families that are in need. Whether you are a single parent, lost a job or simply need help contact you local Social Service office and inquire about these programs.
   
   **These programs also supply employment resources and job training programs free of charge.