According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Wyoming has a Native American population that is growing. At times, Native Americans may need grants or assistance if they are experiencing financial hardship. During these financially difficult periods there are numerous grant and assistance programs in the state of Wyoming that people can turn to for help paying their bills, obtaining food, and more. The programs are funded by the federal and state government, as well as by nonprofit organizations. Each program varies in eligibility requirements and their application process, so be sure to verify that information for each one you may be interested in.
Housing assistance for Native Americans:
Native Americans living in Wyoming who may need help paying for housing or finding affordable housing may qualify for the program called HUD (Housing and Urban Development). The program is federally funded and offers those in need help with paying rent, mortgages, avoiding foreclosure, and obtaining necessary home repairs. To qualify for the housing assistance program you have to meet low income requirements, be a citizen or legal immigrant, and have proof of identity. Those who would like to apply for HUD in Wyoming first need to speak with one of their counselors, who will assess your current financial situation and housing needs.
Energy grants for Native Americans:
The state of Wyoming offers an energy grant program called Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP). This program is funded through the federal and state government and helps people with low incomes to pay for their heating bills. The grants will pay for natural gas, electricity, propane, wood, heating oil, coal, and pellets that are used to heat the home. Applications for the program are accepted from October through February each year. You can apply for LIEAP online. The program is open to low income people who rent or own a home.
Food assistance for Native Americans:
Native Americans who need assistance obtaining food will find several options they can explore. The state offers the federal food stamp program, called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Those who are approved for the program will receive a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements, be a citizen or legal alien, and have a social security number for each person in the home who would receive the benefit. To apply, you can print the application, fill it out, and send it in. Wyoming also offers the federally funded program called WIC (Women, Infant & Children), which provides those who qualify with a monthly grant to purchase healthy food items. To qualify for the program, you have to be low income, and pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under the ages of five. To apply, you have to visit your local WIC clinic. Additionally, there are food banks throughout the state of Wyoming that provide those in need with free boxes of food and free hot meals. They typically do not have a strict eligibility requirement or application process. Visit the Wyoming Food Bank site to find a location near you.
Cash grants for Native Americans:
Native Americans who need cash assistance to help with living expenses may qualify for the program in Wyoming called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program has a five year limit on how long someone can receive the grant. Those who are approved for it are expected to work toward self sufficiency and will need to make strides in doing that to continue receiving the grant. The cash grant does not need to be paid back. To qualify for the program, you have to meet low income requirements, have dependent children, and be a citizen or legal alien. You can apply by printing the application, filling it out, and mailing it in.
Healthcare assistance for Native Americans:
There are healthcare assistance programs open to Native Americans that are administered through the Wyoming Department of Health. The programs include the federally funded program called Medicaid, as well as the program called Kid Care. These programs help to pay for healthcare bills for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and dental care. To qualify, you have to meet low income requirements, be a citizen or legal alien, and have proof of identity. You can apply for these programs online.
Links to assistance programs for Native Americans in Wyoming: