Native Americans living in South Carolina will find numerous programs they can turn to if they are experiencing financial difficulties. There are several programs that are funded through the federal government, some through the state government, and there are many charities in the state that help people who need financial assistance. Each of the programs has different eligibility requirements and their application process varies, making it important that you investigate each program you are interested in. The programs available provide those who qualify with grants and assistance for food, housing, healthcare, and paying for utility bills.
Housing assistance for Native Americans:
Native Americans who need help paying for housing may qualify for the federal program called HUD (Housing and Urban Development). The program’s mission is to help people obtain affordable housing. Those in need may be able to get grants to help pay for their rent, purchase a home, avoid foreclosure, and make necessary home repairs. To qualify for the program you have to be a citizen or legal alien, meet low income requirements, and have proof of identity. Those interested in apply must first call and speak with a HUD counselor, who will assess their current financial situation and housing needs.
Energy grants for Native Americans:
People who are experiencing difficulties paying their heating bill will find there are several energy grant programs they may qualify for. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps those in need with energy grants, energy crisis assistance, weatherization, and necessary energy-related home repairs. Eligibility includes meeting low income requirements, the bill being in your name, being a citizen or legal alien, and having proof of identity. To apply for the program contact your local Community Action Agency. There are additional energy grant programs offered in South Carolina, including Project Share, which is also for low income people, and you apply for it at your local Community Action Agency.
Food assistance for Native Americans:
Those who need food assistance in the state of South Carolina will find several programs they may qualify for. Native Americans can apply for the federal food stamp program, called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Those who are approved for the program receive a monthly grant that they can use at the grocery store or farmer’s market to purchase food. Eligibility requirements include meeting low income requirements, being a citizen or legal alien, and having proof of identity. You can apply for SNAP online or in person by visiting a county social services office. Another food assistance program open to Native Americans in South Carolina is WIC (Women, Infant & Children). The program provides those who qualify with a monthly grant that can be used to purchase specific healthy food, such as cereal, milk, produce, and grains. The program is open to women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have children ages five and under. To apply for WIC in South Carolina, you have to visit your local WIC clinic. Additionally, there are food banks and pantries throughout the state that provide those in need with free boxes of food and free hot meals. These places do not usually require an application process or proof of income. Find the location near you to inquire about obtaining food assistance.
Cash grants for Native Americans:
Native Americans in South Carolina who are in need of cash grants to help pay for living expenses may qualify for the federally-funded program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The program provides a monthly cash grant that does not need to be paid back, to those who qualify. You must meet low income requirements to receive the grant. Those who do receive it will be offered job training and placement, as well as childcare and transportation assistance while in job training. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at your county office.
Healthcare assistance for Native Americans:
Healthcare assistance in South Carolina is available to Native Americans through the program called Medicaid, which is federally funded. Those who are approved for the program will receive assistance paying for medical bills, including going to the doctor or dentist, hospital stays, and prescriptions. Eligibility requirements include you have to meet low income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien. You can apply for the Medicaid program online.
Links to assistance programs for Native Americans in South Carolina:
- Childcare assistance
- Senior free food programs
- Addiction recovery assistance
- Refugee assistance
- South Carolina education grants
- Mobile food pantries
- Summer meals for kids
- Free shelters in South Carolina
- Basic needs assistance
- Free food pantry
- Disaster relief assistance
- Free clinics in South Carolina