There are over 70,000 Native Americans living in South Dakota, making up nearly 9% of the state’s population. At times, they may experience financial difficulty and need some assistance paying bills and obtaining food. The good news is there are numerous programs in the state that they may qualify for and can explore. There are state and federal programs, as well as those offered by nonprofit organizations. The grant and assistance programs available help people in need to obtain food, have their heating bills paid, obtain affordable housing, provide healthcare coverage, and more. Be sure to check out the application and eligibility requirements for each grant and assistance program in South Dakota that you may be interested in, because they do vary.
Housing assistance for Native Americans:
Native Americans in South Dakota who need housing assistance may qualify for the program called HUD (Housing and Urban Development). The program is federally funded and helps people pay for their rent, mortgage, avoid foreclosure, purchase a home, and pay for home repairs. You must meet the low income requirements to qualify, and be a citizen or legal alien. Those who are interested in applying for the program need to call and speak with a HUD counselor, who will gather information about your current financial status and housing needs.
++ Popular grants for native americans
- $5,000 Grant from the Walmart Foundation Community Grant Program
- $7,500 Grant from Halstead
- $500 Grant for Artists
- $10,000 Amber Grant
- $1,500 Soroptimist Club Grant
- $10,000 Vegetarian Resource Group grant
- $5,000 Wendy’s High School Heisman Grant
- $10,000 Tylenol Future Care grant
- $5,000 Chevron grant
- $2,000 Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
Energy grants for Native Americans:
If you are having difficulty paying your energy bill there is a grant program that you may qualify for. The program, called Low Income Energy Assistance, is open to Native Americans living in South Dakota. Qualifications include being low income, being the person responsible for paying the heating bill, and completing an application. The grant amount is determined by the number of people living in your home, type and cost of heating being used, and household income. The grant is given directly to the energy supplier to pay for the bill. You can fill out the application online. If it’s an emergency situation you should call their toll free number.
Food assistance for Native Americans:
Native Americans in South Dakota who are in need of free food will find several options available to them. They can apply for the federal food stamp program called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). If you qualify for the program you will receive a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food. To qualify for the program you have to have a low income, be a citizen or legal alien, and have proof of identity. You also have to meet asset requirements, having no more than $2,250 in countable resources. You can apply online, at your local Social Services office, or print the application and mail it in. The South Dakota WIC (Women, Infant & Children) program also offers free food to those who qualify. The program is open to women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have children ages five and under. If you are approved you will receive a monthly grant to use on specific healthy foods, such as cereal, milk, produce, and grains. Apply at a WIC office near you. There are also food banks around the state of South Dakota that will provide those in need with free boxes of food and free meals. Find your local food bank and contact them for help. Food banks typically do not require you to meet eligibility requirements.
Cash grants for Native Americans:
Native Americans in South Dakota who need cash grants to help with living expenses may qualify for the program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The program is open to those who have a low income, are a citizen or legal alien, and who have children under the ages of 18 (19 if they are in high school). Those who are approved for the program will receive a monthly cash grant. The program has a 60-month lifetime limit and those receiving it are required to participate in work activities. You can apply for this program at your local Department of Labor and Regulation office.
Healthcare assistance for Native Americans:
If you have a low income and need healthcare assistance in the state of South Dakota you may qualify for the state’s Medicaid program. The program provides those who qualify with help to pay for necessary medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, nursing home care, and a variety of other healthcare needs. To qualify for the program you must be low income, be a citizen or legal alien, and have proof of identity. You can apply for this program at your local Social Services office.
Links to assistance programs for Native Americans in South Dakota:
- Childcare assistance
- Addiction treatment assistance
- Free bikes for work
- Mobile food pantries
- South Dakota fund grants
- Mental health services
- Free summer meals for kids
- Indian health services programs
- Free winter clothing
- Free household goods
- South Dakota education grants
- Free hot meals
