Sometimes life’s challenges force us to ask for help. Whether it’s illness, unemployment, homelessness, or a natural disaster, social services agencies can help. It is important to seek this help because these social issues often have a negative impact on health. There are government agencies and philanthropic organizations at the federal, state, and local levels that provide medical assistance and financial assistance. Most government agencies have regional offices. Non-governmental organizations can help as well. These include local food pantries, churches, and other charities in your own backyard.
The path to greater happiness
These common federal aid programs can help people and families who are considered low-income. Low-income criteria change from time to time, so don’t let that deter you from determining your eligibility.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (snap): SNAP is the nation’s largest hunger safety net program. We provide nutritional assistance to millions of eligible low-income individuals and their families.
- Medicaid: Health insurance costs money.Once you qualify, you can purchase health insurance at an affordable price. medicaid.
- Temporary support for needy households (tanf): This program connects individuals and families to state or territory support programs.
- A good start: Designed to promote school readiness in children under 5 years of age. a good start Assist low-income families with education, health care, social services, and other services.
- Low-income energy assistance program (reheap): It’s important to keep your home’s utilities turned on throughout the season. LIHEAP can assist families who qualify for assistance.
- Women, infants, children (WIC) Diet and nutrition: WIC provides federal grants to states for supplemental food, medical referrals, and nutrition education. It is designed to serve low-income pregnant, lactating, and non-lactating postpartum women. This includes infants and children up to 5 years of age who are found to be at nutritional risk.
- County clinic: Almost every community has community health center Provide affordable basic medical services. These centers can often provide referrals to specialized care. This includes mental health, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS, among others.
- internet: Please check with your local internet provider. Some offer lower rates to people who meet certain income or disability criteria.
- Please call 211: Dial 211 on your phone to learn about resources in your area that can help you pay your bills, find food, direct you to other sources of assistance, and more.
Common sources of philanthropy at the local level:
- Goodwill: This nonprofit organization provides employment assistance to people in need. As part of this, goodwill We operate retail stores nationwide. These low-cost recycled treasures help many families purchase clothing and household items.
- Church: Contact churches of all faiths in your area. Many businesses offer assistance to families in need.
- Food pantry: Search the internet for a list of food pantries in your area. These provide non-perishable food (canned and boxed) to families in need. In some cases, families also have access to fresh food (meat and produce).
- Salvation Army, American Red Cross: Salvation Army and american red cross It is most helpful if you or your family are affected by a natural disaster. These organizations provide food, shelter, and other assistance to people in need.
- Safety net hospital: These medical centers and hospitals are located in different communities. They provide medical and other health-related services to patients who have little or no insurance or who are covered by Medicaid.
- library: If you can’t afford internet service, public libraries are a great option because they have limited access. Check your local library for more information. Libraries often also have information about other local resources.
Things to consider
There are many resources available to help people with their health and financial support. There are several things to consider.
- get ready to prove yours income level. This includes your work history and family size at the time of your application. You will also need to apply for each service. There is no “one size fits all” application. Some of these agencies will check your income and circumstances annually, so you may need to fill out a form each year.
- waiting time. Social service agencies are overwhelmed with requests for assistance. Be sure to ask how quickly you can access services once you qualify.
- Red tape/paperwork. Some people call it “red tape.” But it’s really just a paperwork process. Administrative procedures can be difficult at times. By continuing to do this, you will feel safe.
- Taxable benefits. Ask the staff if the benefits you receive will be taxed.
- Social service agencies are taking this seriously. If you lie about your situation, you are committing fraud. Eventually you will be caught.
- Rules and restrictions. All social services have rules and restrictions. For example, you may not be allowed to purchase unhealthy food (candy) with SNAP. Not all medical care is covered by Medicaid or community health centers. Understand what you can and cannot do with the services provided.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Where can I find social services to help my family?
- What are the best healthy foods to buy for your family?
- Can I get full support with documentation and application?
- Does child support count as income?
resource
healthcare.gov
United Way: Public Interest and Community Resources
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Human Services
USA.gov: Government Benefits