Registration for assistance in the Richmond metro area will be held at The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club, 3701 R Street in Richmond on the following dates:
October 10-14; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
October 24-28; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
November 7-11; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE: Spanish speaking individuals are asked to register on the following dates as The Salvation Army will have interpreters available on those dates ONLY!!
November 28 - December 2; 9a.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be NO late registration days this year for Richmond metro area!!
TRI-CITIES:
Registration for assistance in the Tri-Cities will be held at The Salvation Army Tri-Cities Service Center, 1228 S. West Street in Petersburg on the following dates:
October 10-14; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
October 24-28; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
November 7-11; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
November 28 - December 2; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be NO late registration days this year for the Tri-Cities!!
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING TO REGISTER FOR ASSISTANCE:
Please note, The Salvation Army willnot register clients without all of this information.
1) A photo I.D.
2) Social security cards for applicants and ALL children
3) Birth certificate for ALL children
4) If the child is not the applicant's, the applicant will need to provide proof of guardianship (custody papers)
5) Proof of expenses (rent/mortgage, cable and cell phone)
6) Proof of income (recent paycheck stubs)
Assistance is available for children ages birth to 14.
The Division of Public Utilities cannot physically assist any party with the payment of their utility bills. The Division of Public Utilities may intervene, and possibly mediate the informal complaint process where the utility may have violated Utah State Statute, Utah Public Service Commission Rules, or the Utility's published tariffs. The Division of Public Utilities can refer the party to programs administered by public agencies or in conjunction with the utilities themselves, that may assist the party in applying for utility payment assistance.
HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE TARGET (HEAT)
The HEAT program is Utah's version of the federal LIHEAP program (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program). funded 100% by the Federal Government through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and administered by the Utah State Department of Community and Culture (DCC). It is designed to assist eligible households to meet the rising costs of home heating by either electricity or natural gas. There is also a LOW INCOME WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, administered by the same State office that can assist eligible parties to make their homes more energy efficient.
This program is also administered by the Utah State Department of Community and Culture. It is administered through nine government and nonprofit agencies across the state, enables qualified low-income individuals and families to make their homes more energy efficient and reduce utility costs. Individuals, families, elderly people (age 60 or older), and the handicapped that are at or below 125 percent of the current federal poverty income guidelines are eligible for the Weatherization Assistance Program.
This program is also administered by the Utah State Department of Community and Culture, and is designed to assist eligible households to meet the rising costs of home electric energy.
You can obtain more information about these programs by contacting Sherm Roquiero at (801) 538-8644, Rosalinda Tsosie at (801) 538-8621 or Eva Salazar at (801) 538-8642 with Community and Economic development or the Energy Hotline 1-800-662-3633. Click here to visit their website.
Salt Lake County:
Heat 801-521-6107
Weatherization 801-359-2444
Utah, Wasatch and Summit Counties:
Heat 801-377-0066
Weatherization 373-8333 x 117
Davis, Morgan and Weber Counties:
Heat 801-394-9774
Weatherization 435-451-3256
Box Elder, Cache and Rich Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-752-7242
Juab, MIllard, Sanpete, Sevier, Piute and Wayne Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-896-9222
Beaver, Iron, Washington, Garfield and Kane Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-673-3548
Dagget, Duchesne and Uintah Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-722-4518
San Juan, Grand, Emery and Carbon Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-637-7323
UTAH TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (UTAP or Lifeline)
Under the Public Service Commission Rule R746-341-1 you may be eligible for a discount on monthly local phone service and one-time hook-up fees. It is funded through the Universal Services Fund (USF) approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the State of Utah. It provides a discount of approximately $13.25 a month for low-income households (135% of the federal poverty limit) with landline telephones and a 50% (up to $30) Link-Up discount for low-income households who desire to install a landline telephone in their home. As of June 2006, the Utah Lifeline program had over 29,000 participants.
The American Red Cross also administers their own 'Emergency Utility Assistance Programs'. They are REACH, LEND A HAND and Salt Lake City WATER ASSIST. For more information contact the American Red Cross office nearest you.
Faced With Turn-Off Or Delinquent Water Bill Account? Maybe We Can Help!
The cost of providing water to almost two million people each day is directly tied to the cost of fuel, electricity and federal mandates.
This means that some of our citizens with limited incomes are finding it harder to make ends meet. That is why Baltimore City is offering assistance to those who may be having problems paying their water bills.
Please contact your nearest Baltimore Community Action Center (see below) for more information on how we may be able to help you.”
Who is eligible?
You must be a Baltimore City resident, the utility account holder and receive your water bill directly from the City.
You must reside at the property on the account.
You must have received a delinquent, turn-off, or tax sale notice due to being in arrears.
You must not have an existing payment plan with the Department of Finance.
You must have verification documents for eligibility.
Once approved:
You must pledge to make consistent payments on your unpaid and current balance. You will receive a credit of $125.00.
You must meet the household income guidelines below:
Household Income Guidelines Table (Reflects 175% of the Federal Poverty Threshold)
Household Size
Max. Monthly Income
Max. Yearly Income
1
$1,488.96
$17,867.50
2
$1,996.46
$30,047.50
3
$2,503.96
$30,047.50
4
$3,011.46
$36,137.50
5
$3,518.96
$42,227.50
6
$4,026.46
$48,317.50
For each additional person, add
$507.50
$6,090.00
Baltimore Housing Community Action Centers
Southeast Community Action Center
Diann Baker, Director
3411 Bank Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21224
(410) 545-6518
Fax: (410) 545-6511
Eastern Community Action Center
Desiree Mack, Manager
1401 East Preston Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21213
(410) 396-9468
Fax: (410) 545-7955
Northern Community Action Center
David Smith, Manager
5225 York Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21212
(410) 396-6084
Fax: (410) 545-7960
Western District Community Action Center
Emmanuel Holmes,
Social Program Administrator III
1133 Pennsylvania Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21217
(410) 396-0893
Fax: (410) 396-0366
Northwest District Community Action Center
Diane Jones, Manager
3314 Ayrdale Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21216
(443) 984-1384
Fax: (410) 542-3635
Satellite: 3939 Reisterstown Road, Room 150
(410) 396-4770 Fax: (410) 367-5609
Southern Community Action Center
Beulah McCain-Lucas, Manager
606 Cherry Hill Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21225
(410) 545-0900
Fax: (410) 545-1702
Assistance is available for both gas and electric bills. The assistance may be in the form of a reduction of your heating bill and/or a set amount based on your income to be paid each month. Eligibility for these programs is usually based on household income.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
What is HEAP?
HEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD). It is designed to help eligible low-income Ohioans meet the high costs of home heating. HEAP pays a one-time payment for most PUCO-regulated utility customers reflecting their usage for the current winter heating season.
Who is eligible?
The total household income of an applicant must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
How do I sign up?
Call (800) 282-0880, TDD (800) 686-1557 or write to P.O. Box 1240, Columbus, Ohio 43266-0583. HEAP applications may also be downloaded from the Ohio Department of Development Web site or picked up at community action agencies, post offices and libraries. Note: Each household should mail only one application. Customers can check the status of their HEAP applications online.
Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus)
PIPP Plus allows eligible customers to make affordable monthly energy payments on a year-round basis. When a PIPP Plus household pays its monthly PIPP Plus payment on-time and in-full, some of their old debt and the rest of that month’s bill goes away in the form of a credit on their utility account.
Who is eligible?
Your utility company must be regulated by the PUCO. Duke Energy Ohio, Ohio Gas, Eastern Natural Gas, Pike Natural Gas, and Southeastern Natural Gas will offer a slightly different version of PIPP Plus. If you are a customer of one of these companies, call your company to learn more. Some small gas companies are not required to offer PIPP Plus.
You must apply for all energy assistance for which you are eligible.
You must have a gross yearly household income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. If you are not eligible based on the 12-month “test,” you may qualify for PIPP Plus based on your income for the most recent three months.
What will my monthly payment be?
Electric and natural gas customers who qualify pay $10 or 6 percent of their gross monthly household income, whichever is greater, to the utility company each month. If the utility provides both gas and electric services or if the customer has an all-electric home, the payment is $10 or 10 percent of the gross monthly income, whichever is greater.
How do I sign up for PIPP Plus?
Contact your local energy assistance program provider. You may also enroll in PIPP Plus by completing the Energy Assistance Program application and mailing it to The Ohio Department of Development. You must provide proof of your gross monthly household income for at least the last three months. To find your local energy assistance program provider or to obtain an application, please call (800) 282-0880.
Will I have to pay a deposit when I sign up?
No. There are no deposits for PIPP Plus households. If you paid a deposit in the past, that amount will be used to reduce any debt you owe the utility company.
When is my first payment due?
Your first payment will be due when you enroll in PIPP Plus. If you are unable to pay at enrollment, the installment can be added to your next monthly bill, but you will be billed for two payments. You will also lose the arrearage credit for the first month.
What are the new benefits of paying my PIPP Plus amount on-time and in-full?
When PIPP Plus payments are made on-time and in-full, customers earn an incentive credit and an arrearage credit. Each time you pay your required monthly payment on-time and in-full, you no longer owe the rest of that month’s billed amount. You also receive a 1/24 credit toward any old debt. If you make full, on-time payments for 24 straight months, all of your arrearages will be eliminated.
Will fees be assessed for late payments?
No, but you will not receive the incentive or arrearage crediting benefits that come from paying your PIPP Plus payment amount on-time and in-full.
What do I need to do to stay on PIPP Plus?
Natural gas: Every 12 months you must provide proof that your gross monthly household income is at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level to remain a PIPP Plus customer. At that time, you must also make up any PIPP Plus payments that you missed over the past 12 months. You will have one billing cycle to make up those payments, or you will be removed from PIPP Plus, and your entire bill balance will become due. At that time, your utility may offer you an extended payment plan to help you avoid disconnection.
Electric: To remain a PIPP Plus customer, you must provide proof of your gross monthly household income at least every 12 months. If you do not provide proof of income you will be removed from PIPP Plus, and your entire bill balance will become due. At that time, your utility may offer you an extended payment plan to help you avoid disconnection.
Can I participate in customer choice and PIPP Plus at the same time?
No. If you are participating in a customer choice program, and then become eligible for and participate in PIPP Plus, you will automatically be switched to the utility. If you were under a contract with a marketer, they may assess an early termination fee if you switch to PIPP Plus before your contract expires.
What are my options if I become income ineligible for PIPP Plus?
Natural gas: Customers who become income ineligible for PIPP Plus, but are current on their PIPP Plus payment, will be placed on Graduate PIPP Plus. This new program provides customers with a 12-month transition from PIPP Plus to full payments. Under Graduate PIPP Plus, customers pay an average of their most recent PIPP Plus amount and a budget billing amount calculated by their utility. Graduate PIPP Plus customers who make payments on-time and in-full will continue to receive credits toward their monthly bill balance and a 1/12 credit to their old debt. Some small gas companies are not required to offer Graduate PIPP Plus.
Electric: The electric transition and arrearage crediting program provides customers with a 12 month transition from PIPP Plus to full payments. Under the Electric Graduate PIPP Plus program, customers pay either an average of their most recent PIPP Plus amount and a budget billing amount calculated by their utility, or a regular budget payment or the cost of the electric service billed each month. Electric Graduate PIPP Plus customers who make payments on-time and in-full will continue to receive credits toward their monthly bill balance and a 1/12 credit to their old debt.
Winter Crisis Program (formerly Emergency Energy Assistance Program or E-HEAP)
A special component of HEAP, the Winter Crisis Program, is administered by community action agencies throughout Ohio. The Winter Crisis Program provides assistance once per heating season to eligible low-income households that are disconnected, threatened with disconnection, or have less than a ten-day supply of bulk fuel. For further information, contact your local community action agency.
Who is eligible?
The total household income of an applicant must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
How do I sign up?
Applications for Emergency HEAP are accepted through March 31. Contact your local community action agency to sign up.
Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP)
Ohio's Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) is a federally funded low-income residential energy efficiency program. The program reduces low-income households' energy use, thus creating more affordable housing for those in most need. Services include attic, wall and basement insulation; blower-door-guided air leakage reduction; heating system repairs or replacements; and health and safety testing and inspections. All measures are provided based on an on-site energy audit and on cost-effective guidelines developed using the NEAT computerized energy audit. Individualized client education is an important component of the program.
Who benefits from HWAP?
Households at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) participants, PIPP eligible households or households participating Supplemental Security Income qualify for this no-cost program. After weatherization, households that heat with natural gas reduce space heating consumption by an average of 24.7 percent, and electrically heated homes reduce usage by 13 percent on average. HWAP participants increased the percentage of utility bills that they pay and the rate of disconnections of utility service for this group decreased by 50 percent.
How do I sign up?
Call (800) 282-0880, TDD (800) 686-1557 or write to P.O. Box 1240, Columbus, Ohio 43266-0583. HWAP applications may also be downloaded from the Ohio Department of Development Web site or picked up at community action agencies, post offices and libraries. Note: Each household should mail only one application.
Summer Crisis Program
A special component of HEAP, the Summer Crisis Program provides summer cooling assistance for low-income elderly households and for Ohioans with qualifying medical conditions. The program applies to electric utilities only.
What are the benefits?
One-time payment assistance of up to $175 to be put towards:
Electric bill payment,
Air conditioning unit, or
Fan
Who is eligible?
You do not have to be enrolled in PIPP or have received a disconnection notice to be eligible for the Summer Crisis Program.
Households must have a gross annual income of 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and meet one of the following criteria:
Have a member of the household who is at least 60 years old; or
Provide physician documentation of medical necessity.
How do I sign up?
Applications for the Summer Crisis Program are accepted from July 1 through August 31. Contact your local community action agency to sign up.
HeatShare Programs
The HeatShare programs are programs administered by the Salvation Army to help qualifying households pay for natural gas bills. These programs typically run from January until May, or until funds are depleted. For more information about the HeatShare program or to receive assistance, please contact your local Salvation Army.
Columbia Gas of Ohio HeatShare Program
Customers of Columbia Gas of Ohio are eligible for the HeatShare program if they have an annual gross household income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Households experiencing unexpected financial hardships may also be eligible for the program, determined on a case-by-case basis. The HeatShare program provides Columbia customers with a one-time assistance grant of up to $250. Customers are only eligible for HeatShare once per year, and the assistance cannot be applied toward security deposits or bills that are not required to maintain service.
Dominion East Ohio EnergyShare Program
The Dominion East Ohio EnergyShare program is designed to provide fuel assistance to pay for any type of winter heating bill. To qualify for the program, customers must live within the Dominion service territory, must have a termination notice, and must have exhausted other resources for state and federal fuel assistance. Senior citizens age 60 and older do not need a termination notice to qualify. Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
EnergyShare can provide customers with assistance of up to $500 for heating bills and up to $250 for deposits. The funds cannot be used for unauthorized usage, bills older than one heating season, or unpaid balances from the previous heating season. To receive assistance, the applicant must have their name on the utility account or live at the listed residence. For more information, contact your local Salvation Army or Dominion East Ohio at (800) 362-7557.
Duke Energy Ohio HeatShare Fuel Fund
Eligibility for the Duke Energy Ohio HeatShare program is based upon need, and households must be subject to disconnection in order to qualify. Eligible customers can receive a one-time assistance payment of $300. For more information, contact the Salvation Army at (513) 721-0795.
Extended Payment Plans
PUCO-regulated gas and electric companies have the following extended payment plans available to help you to make affordable payments and maintain service:
The One-third Plan, or Winter Heating Season Plan, is only offered from November 1 to April 15 and requires you to pay 1/3 of your total account balance each month.
The One-sixth Plan requires you to pay six equal monthly payments on your past due amount in addition to your monthly budget payment.
The One-ninth Plan requires you to pay nine equal monthly payments on your past due amount in addition to your monthly budget payment.
These plans are available to all residential customers regardless of income. For more information, contact your utility company or your local Community Action Agency. You may also call the PUCO toll-free: Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., EST:
(800) 686-PUCO (7826) (voice)
(800) 686-1570 (TDD)
Some utility companies may offer other emergency assistance plans. For more information, please contact your utility company.
Energy Assistance for Military Personnel and their Families
The Patriot Plan, a program providing protections and benefits to military personnel and their families, can assist qualifying customers with maintaining utility service while serving on active duty. Under the plan, Ohio’s natural gas and electric utilities cannot disconnect the residential utility service of any military reservist or National Guardsman deployed on active duty for nonpayment.
Upon return from active duty, utility companies must offer customers a period of time equal to the length of their deployment to pay any arrearages that may have accumulated. Additional time may be requested by a customer if the amount in arrearages presents a hardship. Utility companies are also prohibited from charging any late payment fees or interest to qualifying customers during the period of deployment or the repayment period.
The Patriot Plan does not apply to career active-duty military personnel serving their regular tour of duty. For additional information regarding this benefit, contact your local utility company or the PUCO at (800) 686-PUCO (7826).
Financial Assistance Services provides support to low-income residents of Ramsey County. We determine eligibility for public assistance programs such as Medicaid, Food Support, General Assistance, Child Care and the Minnesota Family Investment Program.
Note: If you currently have Medicare or will qualify in the near future, you should learn about Medicare D, the new prescription drug coverage program. Go to Minnesota Department of Human Services for more information on Medicare-related programs.
The following programs help low-income people with Cash or Food support. Click on the program links for further information about the programs. Click here for information on How to Apply for Cash or Food Support assistance in Ramsey County.
Diversionary Work Program (DWP) - When most families first apply for cash assistance, they will participate in the Diversionary Work Program, or DWP. This is a 4 month program that helps parents go immediately to work rather than receive welfare.
General Assistance (GA) - This program serves as Minnesota's primary safety net for single adults and childless couples. The GA Program provides monthly cash grants for vulnerable persons whose income and resources are less than program limits.
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) - This program is a state funded program that provides a monthly cash supplement to people who are aged, blind or disabled and who receive federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
Group Residential Housing (GRH) - This program is a state-funded income supplement program that pays for room-and-board costs for low-income adults who have been placed in a licensed or registered setting with which a county human service agency has negotiated a monthly rate.
Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) - This program coordinates services to assist refugees in making the transition to life in the United States. These services include resettlement and placement, cash and medical assistance, and employment and social services.
Health Care Programs
The following programs help low-income people with coverage for medical bills.
Medical Assistance (MA) - This program assists child under the age of 21, parents or relative caretakers of dependent children, pregnant women, people who are 65 or older and people who have a disability.
General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC) - This program serves low-income adults, ages 21-64, who have no dependent children under age 18 and who do not qualify for federal health care programs.
Other Health Care Programs - There are a variety of health care programs available to assist specific groups of people. These include persons in Nursing Homes, at-home care services, etc. the Department of Human Services web site is a good source of information on these programs.
Emergency Programs
The emergency aid programs available in Ramsey County include:
Ramsey County Emergency Assistance (EA) - This program is for low-income families experiencing a financial crisis.
Emergency General Assistance (EGA) - This program primarily helps low-income individuals experiencing a financial crisis.
Emergency Minnesota Supplemental Aide (EMSA) - This program is only available to persons currently receiving MSA.
Emergency aide is usually provided in the form of specific payments for shelter or other emergency expenses, which cause a threat to the health or safety of the individual or family. People currently active on a program with Financial Assistance should call their caseworker to apply for emergency aide. People not currently on assistance with Ramsey County can call 266-4444 to get information on how to apply for emergency aide.
Emergency Shelter/Help for the Homeless - Ramsey County has a variety of services available to those who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless. Intake services for homeless persons are coordinated through The Family Place. For information on what to do if you are homeless or in danger or becoming homeless call The Family Place at 651-225-9354 or 651-225-9355.
Patients must bring a photo ID with a current Travis County address on it
You must be at the Clinic at 6pm in order to receive a ticket. If you arrive after 6pm you will not be seen. Doors open at 5pm
If address on ID is not current, a proof of residency must be provided as well (such as utility or phone bill, lease agreement, etc.)
Passports are not accepted as a form of identification
Only patients are allowed in the waiting room due to space and health concerns. Come alone as anyone with you will be asked to wait outside
Do not bring healthy children who do not need to be seen to the Clinic
Children under 18 in need of medical services must be accompanied by ONLY ONE parent
Only one parent will be able to accompany the child inside the Clinic
You may be at the Clinic 2-3 hours (registration, triage, physician consultations, pharmacy and lab services) so please be patient and plan accordingly.
The Clinic is staffed almost entirely with volunteers and patients are expected to treat VHC volunteers and staff with respect (and vice versa).
The Clinic has a Suggestion Box and patient satisfaction survey in the waiting room. Please provide feedback about your experience at VHC.
(866) 727-1494 Toll Free for those outside Tarrant County
(817) 536-1556 Fax
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE WITH MEDICAL NEEDS
Description: The St. Joseph Health Care Trust works throughout the Diocese of Fort Worth to provide financial assistance with basic primary health care needs for persons who are medically uninsured or under insured. The following services are provided: prescription assistance, physician visit, limited dental services, eye glasses, hearing services, counseling services, durable medical goods and health screenings. St. Joseph Health Care Trust does not pay insurance co-payments or JPS Connection co-payments. Services are disseminated through Catholic Charities.
Intake procedure: Call 817-534-0814 for information
Fees: None - however clients may be asked to contribute toward the cost of services.
Documents required: Call for information
Eligibility: Medically uninsured/underinsured who meet eligibility guidelines (includes undocumented individuals)
Hours: Mon - Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm (office)
Languages: Spanish
Area served: 28 Counties in North Central Texas (Tarrant, Wise, Denton, Cooke Johnson, Parker, Palo Pinto, Hood, Somervell, Erath, Hill, Bosque, Comanche, Eastland, Shackelford, Stephens, Throckmorton, Young, Jack, Knox, Baylor, Archer, Clay, Montague, Wichita, Wilbarger, Foard and Hardeman)
Services: Dental Care for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Glasses/Contact Lenses for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Hearing Aids for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Hearing Screening for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Medical Care Expense Assistance for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Medical Equipment/Supplies for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Mental Health Expense Assistance for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance, Prescription Expense Assistance for People Without Health Insurance and People With Inadequate Health Insurance.
The Christmas Bureau has been a part of Spokane's Christmas tradition since 1945. Each year from the day after Thanksgiving through December 31st, the Spokesman-Review solicits donations from businesses and individuals for the Christmas Bureau Fund. Donors make their contributions directly to the Spokesman-Review. Those funds purchase toys for children and provide food vouchers and books for needy families who come to the Christmas Bureau, which runs for ten days each December at the Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds Agricultural Building (404 N. Havana).
Christmas Bureau recipients are self-selected. All are welcome, and there are no income specifications. Each address is served one time. All adults served must bring photo ID and proof of address (current utility bill, phone bill, or rent receipts are best). Proof of dependents (all children 17 and under) is required. A letter from their school, or a letter from a non profit agency confirming the number and ages of dependents work best. Documentation is needed to show that the children live with the adult(s) wishing to obtain vouchers and toys for the children.
Catholic Charities Spokane and Volunteers of America manage and operate the Christmas Bureau. Together, more than 300 community volunteers are scheduled, receive a background check, are trained, and welcome families to help make the Bureau run smoothly.
If you would like to volunteer at the 2011 Christmas Bureau
please call Brigid Krause at 358-4270 or email her at bkrause@ccspokane.org
Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a Wisconsin Dental Association program. The program is directed to people who are unable to afford needed dental care because of a limited income which is clearly linked to a permanent disability, chronic illness or advanced age (65 and over).
Ronald McDonald Care Mobile™: This traveling unit provides no-cost dental services to qualifying children in south-central Wisconsin and northern Illinois.
Clinics offering free or reduced-fee dental care
This list of free or low-cost health clinics in Wisconsin is from the Department of Health Services ForwardHealth program. The page includes maps showing the locations of federally qualified health centers, free clinics, rural health centers, and tribal health centers in Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Dental Association has a list of reduced rate dental clinics for low-income and uninsured individuals.
HealthNet of Janesville offers free care to eligible low-income Rock County residents with no health insurance. The clinic is located at 1344 Creston Park Drive, Suite 2, Janesville. For more information about HealthNet Dental Clinic's screening procedure and services call 608-756-4638 to enroll.
Marquette University School of Dentistry Dental Clinic provides dental care for about half the price of a private dentist. Participating clinics are located both in and outside of Milwaukee. You will need to schedule an initial screening appointment to determine if you are eligible for clinic services. For more information call 414-288-1510 (English) or 414-288-1520 (Spanish).
The Marshfield Clinic Park Falls Dental Center opened March 3, 2008. The dental center is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday – Friday. A sliding fee scale will assist those with limited income and no insurance. You can schedule an appointment by calling 715-762-0200 or by visiting the Center's web site.
The Marshfield Clinic Chippewa Dental Center serves all patients regardless of the insurance or ability to pay. The Center offers a dental financial assistance program but there are certain requirements. Information about the requirements is available by calling 715-738-2000. The center is located in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.
The Marshfield Clinic Ladysmith Dental Center provides dental care on a sliding-fee scale. The center is located in Ladysmith, Wisconsin and can be reached by phone at: 715-532-2500.
The Max W. Pohle Dental Clinic provides dental care with a special focus on persons with particular medical needs. Special payment plans for the uninsured are available. The clinic is located in Madison and can be reached by phone at (608) 417-6500.
The Bureau of Primary Health Care, Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, lists free and reduced-fee clinics. Some of these clinics provide dental care. Contact each clinic for more information.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) offers nutrition education, breastfeeding support, referrals and a variety of nutritious foods to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women, infants and children up to age five.
WIC has been shown to improve the health of pregnant women, new mothers and their infants and children. The foods provided through WIC are a good source of essential nutrients that are often missing from the diets of women and young children. WIC participants have longer, healthier pregnancies and fewer premature births.
What's New with WIC?
The new New York State WIC logo represents the program's mission to partner with you and your family by providing these services:
Breastfeeding and peer counseling support
Nutrition education focused on your needs
Offering ideas for easy physical activities that are fun and healthy
Convenient hours, locations and services
Referrals to other health and social services
Individualized food packages
To make it easier for you to have the paperwork you may need for your WIC appointments, some WIC forms are now posted on the Department of Health website.
www.freegasusa.org
A nationwide non-profit assistance program for low-income people having trouble paying for gasoline. Applications can be made for gas grant cards that range in value from $50 to $1200, depending on need and circumstances. In order to be eligible for a gas card a person's yearly incomd must be at or below the "very low limit" category as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. An income calculator is available at the website. Applications are only available online, must be substantiated by a human service agency, and must be accompanied by a $3 non-refundable cashier check or money order. Applicants must be residents of the United States.
MCHIP uses federal and state funds to ensure that all Maryland's children have medical insurance.
The Maryland Children's Health Insurance Program (MCHIP) gives full health benefits for children up to age 19, and pregnant women of any age who meet the income guidelines. MCHIP provides care through a variety of Managed Care Organizations (MCOs).
Eligibility:
Children under age 19, who are not eligible for Medicaid
Pregnant women of any age
Whose countable income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
Children of employed parents whose employer does not offer family health insurance (NOTE: In some instances, having health insurance will not prevent you from being eligible for MCHIP. Even if you have health insurance, it's best to apply and let the case manager assigned to your application determine your eligibility)
How to Apply:
Complete an application and provide the requested information. The sooner you complete the application, the sooner your child(ren) will receive assistance.
Applications can be mailed in or carried in to any location listed below.
Medicaid, also called Medical Assistance, is a Program that pays the medical bills of certain needy and low-income individuals. It is administered by the State and pays medical bills with Federal and State funds.
Eligibility:
Medicaid coverage is automatically granted to individuals receiving other public assistance, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), and Foster Care. Low-income families, children, pregnant women, and aged, blind, or disabled adults may also qualify for Medicaid. You can have private health insurance and be eligible for Medicaid. The rules are different for different groups and the kinds of medical care covered are different for different groups. If you need help paying for your own or your family?s medical bills, you should find out for sure about your eligibility for Medical Assistance by filing an application at your Local Department of Social Services.
Regional Variations
Benefits and eligibility requirements are standard across the State.
Where to Apply:
You must file an application to find out if you are eligible for Medicaid. To do this, go to The Local Department of Social Services (LDSS) in the city or county where you live. If you are applying for a child or a pregnant woman, you may apply at your Local Health Department.
For additional information on the Medicaid Program and eligibility requirements
The Maryland Pharmacy Assistance Program provides help to qualified Maryland residents, regardless of age, who are not eligible for the Maryland Medical Assistance Program. Eligibility is not limited to the elderly and disabled.
Eligibility:
Eligibility for the Maryland Pharmacy Assistance Program is based on the financial resources available to the family unit. Participants receive a yellow and white MPAP card within one week of approval. Eligibility is for one year from the first day of the month in which the application is received.
How to Apply:
Those applying must contact their local department of social services. Complete and submit a declaratory application, which includes identifying information for each member of the household, including income and assets.
The Medicare Buy-In Program, also known as QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) and SLIMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary). It is designed to protect low-income Medicare beneficiaries from the significant and growing costs required to receive Medicare coverage, including out-of-pocket cost sharing expenses (deductibles and co--payments). The Program connects the two largest public health programs in the country, Medicare and Medicaid, as Medicaid pays for all or part of the Medicare premium and deductible amounts for individuals who are financially eligible.
The QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) Program serves individuals with modest assets (up to $4,000 per individual or $6,000 per couple) with combined incomes that do not go over 100 percent of the federal poverty level. The state Medicaid program pays their Medicare Part B premiums and cost-sharing amounts. The SLIMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) Program pays only the Part B premium for those with incomes between 100 and 120 percent of poverty with assets up to $4,000 per individual or $6,000 per couple.
Please note that applications for all Medical Assistance programs can be obtained completed and submitted at your local health department, Drs. Office and Hospital Social Work Department.
The Division of Public Utilities cannot physically assist any party with the payment of their utility bills. The Division of Public Utilities may intervene, and possibly mediate the informal complaint process where the utility may have violated Utah State Statute, Utah Public Service Commission Rules, or the Utility's published tariffs. The Division of Public Utilities can refer the party to programs administered by public agencies or in conjunction with the utilities themselves, that may assist the party in applying for utility payment assistance.
HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE TARGET (HEAT)
The HEAT program is Utah's version of the federal LIHEAP program (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program). funded 100% by the Federal Government through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and administered by the Utah State Department of Community and Culture (DCC). It is designed to assist eligible households to meet the rising costs of home heating by either electricity or natural gas. There is also a LOW INCOME WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, administered by the same State office that can assist eligible parties to make their homes more energy efficient.
This program is also administered by the Utah State Department of Community and Culture. It is administered through nine government and nonprofit agencies across the state, enables qualified low-income individuals and families to make their homes more energy efficient and reduce utility costs. Individuals, families, elderly people (age 60 or older), and the handicapped that are at or below 125 percent of the current federal poverty income guidelines are eligible for the Weatherization Assistance Program.
This program is also administered by the Utah State Department of Community and Culture, and is designed to assist eligible households to meet the rising costs of home electric energy.
You can obtain more information about these programs by contacting Sherm Roquiero at (801) 538-8644, Rosalinda Tsosie at (801) 538-8621 or Eva Salazar at (801) 538-8642 with Community and Economic development or the Energy Hotline 1-800-662-3633. Click here to visit their website.
Salt Lake County:
Heat 801-521-6107
Weatherization 801-359-2444
Utah, Wasatch and Summit Counties:
Heat 801-377-0066
Weatherization 373-8333 x 117
Davis, Morgan and Weber Counties:
Heat 801-394-9774
Weatherization 435-451-3256
Box Elder, Cache and Rich Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-752-7242
Juab, MIllard, Sanpete, Sevier, Piute and Wayne Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-896-9222
Beaver, Iron, Washington, Garfield and Kane Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-673-3548
Dagget, Duchesne and Uintah Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-722-4518
San Juan, Grand, Emery and Carbon Counties:
Heat and Weatherization 435-637-7323
UTAH TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (UTAP or Lifeline)
Under the Public Service Commission Rule R746-341-1 you may be eligible for a discount on monthly local phone service and one-time hook-up fees. It is funded through the Universal Services Fund (USF) approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the State of Utah. It provides a discount of approximately $13.25 a month for low-income households (135% of the federal poverty limit) with landline telephones and a 50% (up to $30) Link-Up discount for low-income households who desire to install a landline telephone in their home. As of June 2006, the Utah Lifeline program had over 29,000 participants.
The American Red Cross also administers their own 'Emergency Utility Assistance Programs'. They are REACH, LEND A HAND and Salt Lake City WATER ASSIST. For more information contact the American Red Cross office nearest you.
If you paid someone to care for your child, spouse, or dependent last year, you may be able to claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit on your federal income tax return. Below are 10 things the IRS wants you to know about claiming a credit for child and dependent care expenses.
The care must have been provided for one or more qualifying persons. A qualifying person is your dependent child age 12 or younger when the care was provided. Additionally, your spouse and certain other individuals who are physically or mentally incapable of self-care may also be qualifying persons. You must identify each qualifying person on your tax return.
The care must have been provided so you – and your spouse if you are married filing jointly – could work or look for work.
You – and your spouse if you file jointly – must have earned income from wages, salaries, tips, other taxable employee compensation or net earnings from self-employment. One spouse may be considered as having earned income if they were a full-time student or were physically or mentally unable to care for themselves.
The payments for care cannot be paid to your spouse, to the parent of your qualifying person, to someone you can claim as your dependent on your return, or to your child who will not be age 19 or older by the end of the year even if he or she is not your dependent. You must identify the care provider(s) on your tax return.
Your filing status must be single, married filing jointly, head of household or qualifying widow(er) with a dependent child.
The qualifying person must have lived with you for more than half of 2010. There are exceptions for the birth or death of a qualifying person, or a child of divorced or separated parents. See Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses.
The credit can be up to 35 percent of your qualifying expenses, depending upon your adjusted gross income.
For 2010, you may use up to $3,000 of expenses paid in a year for one qualifying individual or $6,000 for two or more qualifying individuals to figure the credit.
The qualifying expenses must be reduced by the amount of any dependent care benefits provided by your employer that you deduct or exclude from your income.
If you pay someone to come to your home and care for your dependent or spouse, you may be a household employer and may have to withhold and pay social security and Medicare tax and pay federal unemployment tax. See Publication 926, Household Employer's Tax Guide.
For more information on the Child and Dependent Care Credit, see Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses. You may download these free publications from http://www.irs.gov or order them by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
Links:
Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses (PDF 167K)
Form W-10, Dependent Care Provider’s Identification and Certification (PDF 31K)
Form 2441, Child and Dependent Care Expenses (PDF)
Posted in How are you today? on Apr 10, 2011... modified on Apr 10, 2011
in response to cashay...If you are waiting for a time when you will be sufficient financially before leaving, that is like saying when I win the lottery, then I will leave.
No one, and I mean no one, is ever financially free..... and as far as a burden goes, a burden to who.....
Again my dear friend, a cop out. If you were sincere about the situation you are truly in, you would find a way out. Trust me, been there, done that. And once you do leave, then you begin to rebuild and shoot for the goal of being financially free.
Creating pages and more so, creating pageviews is a very stiff competition. The content has to be what someone is looking for. It must be something that solves a need, that helps. And of course, the keywords.
The reason I say this, is this is what I am up against with my own websites. There is so much competition out there..... I was always told that pages create pageviews. The more out there, the more someone is likely to click to come to your site.
But the content..... the content has to be something different, something that will bring them in. Copying and pasting is not the answer, as to much of the same thing will kill the chances of extra pages. That is one thing I am finding. Google is not a big fan of duplication.
Is there a way to boost Aidpage? I believe there is..... unique content with keywords...... that would do it. Then the pages added would be of value and more enticing to bring people in.
Please keep my husband in your prayers..... he is having this procedure done on Monday at 9:30 am. Thanks everyone.....
Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting
What are renovascular conditions?
• Renovascular conditions affect the blood vessels of your kidneys.
• When the blood flow is normal through your kidneys, your kidneys rid your body of wastes. The kidneys filter these wastes into your bladder, and they exit your body through your urine.
• When your kidney blood vessels narrow or have a clot, your kidney is less able to do its work.
• Your physician may diagnose you with renal artery stenosis or renal vein thrombosis.
• Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of kidney arteries. This condition causes high blood pressure and may eventually lead to kidney failure.
• Renal vein thrombosis means that you have a blood clot blocking a vein in your kidney. Blood clots in renal veins are uncommon and rarely affect the kidney, but they can sometimes travel to and lodge in arteries supplying your lungs, causing a dangerous condition called a pulmonary embolism.
What are the symptoms?
• You may not notice any symptoms. Renovascular conditions develop slowly and worsen over time.
• If you have high blood pressure, the first sign that you may have renal artery stenosis is that your high blood pressure may become worse or the medications that you take to control your high blood pressure may not be effective.
• Other signs of renal artery stenosis are a whooshing sound in your abdomen that your physician hears through a stethoscope, decreased kidney function, and congestive heart failure.
• In renal vein thrombosis, a clot in your vein may break free and block a healthy blood vessel. If this happens, symptoms may include:
• Pain in the sides of your abdomen, legs, or thighs
• Blood in your urine
• Protein in your urine
• A enlarged kidney that your physician can feel
• Fever, nausea, or vomiting
• High blood pressure
• Sudden, severe swelling in your leg
• Difficulty breathing
What causes renovascular conditions?
• Hardening of the arteries causes renal artery stenosis.
• Your arteries are normally smooth and unobstructed on the inside but, as you age, a sticky substance called plaque can build up in the walls of your arteries. Cholesterol, calcium, and fibrous tissue make up this plaque. As more plaque builds up, your arteries narrow and stiffen.
• This is the process of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Eventually, enough plaque builds up to interfere with blood flow in your renal arteries.
• Smoking, obesity, advanced age, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a family history of cardiovascular disease are factors that increase your chances for developing atherosclerosis.
• Nephrotic syndrome is the most common cause of a clot in the renal vein (renal vein thrombosis). Nephrotic syndrome is a condition in which large amounts of a protein called albumin leak into your urine.
• Other causes of renal vein thrombosis include injury to the vein, infection, and a tumor.
What tests will I need?
Your physician will recommend the following tests to help determine if you have renal artery stenosis:
• Ultrasound: allows your physician to see your blood vessels and organs using high-frequency sound waves. With ultrasound, your physician can locate clots inside your arteries and determine the size of your kidney
• Angiography: locates a narrowing or blockage, measures blood flow, and removes blood for testing. In this test, your physician injects a contrast dye into your vessels and then takes x-rays. The structure inside of your vessels appears on the x-ray because x-rays cannot pass through the dye. This test finds the location and pattern of blockages in your kidney blood vessels
• Spiral computed tomography (CT) scan: creates detailed three-dimensional images from x-rays of slices of your body
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA: uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce three-dimensional images of your arteries
• Radionuclide scanning:uses a radioactive substance and a special camera to analyze the blood flow through your kidney
How are renovascular conditions treated?
Medication
• If your physician diagnoses renal artery stenosis, he or she may prescribe blood pressure medications.
Some medications may include:
• Diuretics
• Beta-blockers
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Calcium channel blockers
Thrombolysis
• If you experience sudden blockage in your renal artery, your physician may recommend a procedure called thrombolysis.
• In thrombolysis, a vascular physician injects a clot-dissolving medication directly to a clot through a long, thin tube called a catheter.
• If your physician diagnoses renal vein thrombosis, he or she may give you anticoagulants. These medications decrease your blood's ability to clot. In critical cases of renal vein thrombosis, your physician may perform thrombolysis.
Angioplasty and stenting
• If your renal artery is partially or completely blocked, your physician may recommend a procedure called angioplasty and stenting.
• To perform this procedure, your physician inserts a catheter through a small incision and guides it through your blood vessels to your renal artery.
• The catheter carries a tiny balloon that inflates and deflates, flattening the plaque against the walls of your artery.
• Next, your physician may insert a tiny metal-mesh tube called a stent in the artery to hold it open.
Surgery
• Two surgical procedures that your physician may use to treat renal artery stenosis are endarterectomy and surgical bypass.
• In a renal endarterectomy, a vascular surgeon removes the inner lining of your renal artery, which contains the plaque. This removes the plaque and leaves a smooth, wide-open artery.
• Bypass surgery creates a detour around the narrowed or blocked sections of your renal artery.
• To create this bypass, a vascular surgeon connects one of your veins or a tube made from man-made materials above and below the area that is blocked. This creates a new path for your blood to flow to your kidneys.
• The choice of the procedure that is best for your situation depends upon the extent and location of the blockages.
What can I expect?
Your vascular surgeon will discuss the treatment options with you and decide on the treatment that is right for you.
Angioplasty and stenting
• Prior to your procedure, tests may be scheduled such as blood work, electrocardiogram (ECG), and chest x-ray. These may be done at a separate appointment, or the day of the procedure
• Angioplasty or stenting is commonly done as an outpatient procedure, although some patients are hospitalized (inpatients)
• You can wear whatever you like to the hospital. You will wear a hospital gown during the procedure.
• If you normally wear dentures, glasses or a hearing assist device, plan to wear them during the procedure to assist with communication.
• Your doctor or nurse will give you specific instructions about what you can and cannot eat or drink before the procedure.
• Ask your doctor what medications should be taken on the day of your test. You may be told to stop certain medications, such as Coumadin (warfarin, a blood thinner).
• If you have diabetes, ask your physician how to adjust your medications the day of your test.
• Tell your doctor and/or nurses if you are allergic to anything, especially iodine, shellfish, x-ray dye, penicillin-type medications, latex or rubber products (such as rubber gloves or balloons).
• You may or may not return home the day of your procedure. When you are able to return home, arrange for a companion to bring you home.
• Please bring a list of your medications (including over-the-counter) and dosages. When you arrive for your appointment, please tell your nurse if you are taking Coumadin (warfarin), Plavix (clopidogrel), diuretics (water pill) or insulin.
• You will be given a hospital gown to wear. A nurse will start an intravenous (IV) line in your arm so that medications and fluids can be administered during the procedure.
• You will lie on a special table and you will be able to watch your procedure on the monitors.
• The nurse will clean your skin at the site where the catheter (narrow plastic tube) will be inserted (arm or groin). The catheter insertion site may be shaved.
• Sterile drapes are used to cover the site and help prevent infection. It is important that you keep your arms and hands down at your sides, under the sterile drapes.
• Electrodes (small, flat, sticky patches) will be placed on your chest. The electrodes are attached to an electrocardiograph monitor (ECG), which monitors your heart rate and rhythm.
• You will be given a mild sedative to relax you, but you will be awake and conscious during the entire procedure.
• In some cases, a catheter may be placed into your bladder during the procedure.
• The doctor will use a local anesthetic to numb the site. A plastic introducer sheath (a short, hollow tube through which the catheter is placed) is inserted in a blood vessel in your arm or groin. A catheter will be inserted through the sheath and threaded to the arteries of your heart. You may feel pressure as the introducer sheath or catheter are inserted, but you should not feel pain. Tell the nurse or doctor if you feel any pain.
Angiography is usually performed again at the beginning of the angioplasty procedure or sometimes the angioplasty procedure is performed at the time of the initial angiogram.
Please tell the doctor or nurses if you feel:
• itching, tightness in the throat (allergic reaction)
• nausea
• chest discomfort
• any other symptoms
After the procedure:
• The catheters and sheath are removed.
• The incision will be closed with applied pressure, suture device or a "plug." A "plug" is a material which works with your body's natural healing processes to form a clot in the artery. You will need to lie flat and keep the leg straight for two to six hours to prevent bleeding (less time if a plug was used). Your head cannot be raised more than 30 degrees (2 pillows high). Do not try to sit or stand.
• A sterile dressing will be placed on the angio site to protect it from infection. The nurse will check your bandage regularly, but call your nurse if you think you are bleeding (have a wet, warm sensation) or if your toes begin to tingle or feel numb.
• You will need to drink plenty of liquids to clear the contrast material from your body. You may feel the need to urinate more frequently. This is normal. If you are on bed rest, you will need to use a bedpan or urinal.
• Your doctor will tell you if you are able to return home or will need to stay overnight. In either case, you will be monitored for several hours after the procedure.
• Treatment, including medications, diet and future procedures, will be discussed with you prior to going home. Care of the wound site, activity and follow-up care will also be discussed.
I keep hearing a reference made to "If Only I Was Normal Like Other People"....
What is "Normal" anyway. I use to wonder the same thing. But as I have gotten older I realize that "Normal" is a state of being within ourselves.
Everyone has problems and health issues. I could not imagine one person on this earth that is completely carefree, completely healthy, and no problems whatsoever. It there was, would you classify that as being "Normal"?
What would be a "Normal" person..... I would like feed back, because all my life I have been trying to be "Normal" but since I don't know what that is, I can't gauge my progress.
"Normal"..... hummmmmmmmmm, now that would be an awesome concept.
The Disability Starter Kit will help you get ready for your disability interview or online application. Kits are available for adults and for children under age 18.
The starter kits provide information about the specific documents and the information that we will request from you. We will ask for more details during your interview or when you complete the online Disability Report.
The kits also provide general information about the disability programs and our decision-making process that can help take some of the mystery out of applying for disability benefits.
Each Disability Starter Kit contains a:
Fact sheet that answers questions most people ask about applying for disability benefits,
Checklist of documents and information we will request, and
Worksheet to help you gather and organize the information you will need.
Click on one of the following links to view or print a kit:
If you are more comfortable speaking in a language other than English, we provide free interpreter service upon request to conduct your Social Security business. This service is available when you talk to us by phone or in a Social Security office. Log on to:
Heat Assistance
This innovative program enables Rhode Island Housing’s FirstHomes customers to defer $200 a month from their mortgage payments for up to four months during the winter season, with the understanding that they will pay an extra $100 a month after the heating season is over to make up the difference. The program is free and does not increase the interest customers pay on their mortgages.
RoadHome Emergency Housing Assistance
Rhode Island Housing's RoadHome Emergency Housing Assistance (RHEHA) provides assistance to individuals and families who are facing a housing crisis.
RHEHA is designed to help Rhode Islanders in need and reduce the Rhode Island shelter population by providing cash assistance to individuals and families at risk of becoming homeless due to a short term housing emergency. RHEHA provides up to $1,200 to eligible program participants for security deposits, first month's rent or mortgage payment assistance. Applicants must be facing a temporary housing crisis, meet strict income and eligibility requirements and be able to sustain their housing costs over the long term.
Supportive Housing Program
The Supportive Housing Program (SHP) is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Each year, Rhode Island Housing applies for a grant in which partner service agencies are provided with funding for a wide array of programs. These programs provide housing with services to the homeless population along a “Continuum of Care.”
The three basic program types are:
• Safe Havens, housing for hard-to-reach homeless persons with severe mental illnesses who are on the streets and have been unable or unwilling to participate in supportive services;
• Transitional Housing, housing in which homeless persons live for up to 24 months and receive supportive services that enable them to live more independently and
• Permanent Housing, long-term community-based housing and supportive services for homeless persons with disabilities.
The intent of this type of supportive housing is to enable this special needs population to live as independently as possible in a permanent setting.
Shelter Plus Care Program
The Shelter Plus Care Program (S+C) is designed to link rental assistance to supportive services for hard-to-serve homeless persons with disabilities (primarily those who are seriously mentally ill; have chronic problems with alcohol, drugs, or both; or have acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and related diseases) and their families. The program provides grants to be used for rental assistance for permanent housing for homeless persons with disabilities.
Rental assistance grants must be matched by supportive services that are equal in value to the amount of rental assistance and appropriate to the needs of the population to be served. S+C is authorized by title IV, subtitle F. of the Stewart B. Mc Kinney Homeless Assistance Act (the McKinney Act).
Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Program
The Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program addresses the specific needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families. HOPWA, established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), makes grants to local communities, states, and nonprofit organizations for projects that benefit low income persons medially diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and their families.
HOPWA funding provides housing assistance and related supportive services as part of HUD’s Consolidated Planning initiative that works in partnership with communities and neighborhoods in managing Federal funds appropriated to HIV/AIDS programs. HOPWA grantees are encouraged to develop community-wide strategies and form partnerships with area nonprofit organizations. HOPWA funds may be used for a wide range of housing, social services, program planning, and development costs.
These include, but are not limited to, the acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction of housing units; costs for facility operations; rental assistance; and short-term payments to prevent homelessness. HOPWA funds also may be used for health care and mental health services, chemical dependency treatment, nutritional services, case management, assistance with daily living, and other supportive services.
Many beneficiaries receive supportive services that are funded by HOPWA or other related public and private programs. In fact, states and cities leverage approximately two dollars for every one dollar provided by the HOPWA program, according to HUD reports.
Cash assistance, also known as Temporary Assistance for Families, helps adults with their problems in getting a job, provides support services for work, training, work activities, and education and helps families learn new skills, build on their current abilities, and keep children in their homes.
To receive cash assistance, a family must have at least one child in the home under the age of 18 or a family expecting a child. The child may live with a parent or relative or live with a person named by a court to take care of the child, such as a guardian, conservator, or custodian. The family must also have low incomes and few resources.
How to Receive Cash Assistance
Apply for cash assistance by filling out an Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) online application.
This division of Human Services provides financial assistance to persons who qualify. Persons must fill out a formal application in order to have eligibility determined. For more information or to request an application for financial assistance call (507) 304-4222.
Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP): MFIP is a combination of both cash and food assistance. It is a work-focused program with a goal of helping families move towards self-sufficiency through employment.
Diversionary Work Program (DWP): DWP is a short-term work focused program for families. It is a four month program to reduce the risk of needing longer term assistance under MFIP.
General Assistance (GA): GA provides monthly cash assistance to people who cannot work due to a disability, illness, age, etc. People eligible for GA are automatically eligible for General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC).
Minnesota Supplemental Assistance (MSA): MSA provides a monthly supplement to people over 65, blind, or disabled and who are receiving Supplemental or Social Security Income (SSI). People on MSA are automatically eligible for Medical Assistance (MA).
Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA): RCA provides financial assistance to refugees ineligible for SSI.
Work Benefit Program (WB): A cash benefit for families who have exited DWP or MFIP and are working a required number of hours.
Medical Assistance (MA): Nationally called Medicaid, this program pays for medical care for low-income people under 21 and over 65 years of age. There are 27 subprograms to Medical Assistance for which this program pays when a person is eligible. Medical Assistance pays for long-term care.
General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC): GAMC is a state program which provides medical care for people between the ages of 21 and 65 and who are not eligible for the Federal Medical Assistance Program.
Food Stamps: Food stamps are coupons or electronic benefits used to buy food. They cannot be used to buy alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or pet food; nor can they be used to buy non-food items.
Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP): This state program provides food assistance to non-citizens who do not qualify for the Federal Food Stamp Program or the food portion of MFIP. (State Food Support Website)
Low Income Stabilization Program (LISP): LISP Provides emergency help for families with children. The emergency must threaten the health and safety of a child. LISP is limited to once in 18 months.
Emergency Minnesota Supplemental Aid (EMSA): EMSA provides emergency assistance to aged, blind, or disabled persons who receive MSA and face an emergency situation that threatens the persons health and/or safety. You can receive EMSA only once in 12 months.
Emergency General Assistance (EGA): EGA provides help to people without children who are in a crisis situation, such as fires, floods, evictions, and utility shutoffs. You can only receive EGA once in 12 months.
Emergency Medical Assistance (EMA): EMA provides medical coverage in emergency situations only for people who are not eligible for MA due to immigration status.
Group Residential Housing (GRH): GRH pays room and board for a group living situation which has a fixed rate contract with a county. This includes foster care settings for adults. It does not include shelters or medical care facilities.
Child Support and Paternity (IVD): Assists in establishing paternity for children and in the collection of child support. Locates absent parents. Recipients of MFIP and MA are required to use this service. Others can apply for this service for a one-time fee of $25.
If you have questions regarding Child Support payments, please contact the Payment Center at 1 (800) 657-3512. You will need your 4-character PIN number and your 10-digit MCI number to access your account.
Contact the County Department of Social/Human Services of the county you live in to apply for child care assistance. You must fill out an application for child care services and provide information about your family including immunization information, income and your work or school program.
SUBMITTING EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
When you first apply for low-income child care assistance your child care worker may contact your employer by phone to verify hours and wages. You then have 30 days to supply written verification of your employment or education program. This is important! Benefits may be withheld if verification is not submitted. Let your worker know immediately if you cannot get the verification information.
CHOOSING A CHILD CARE PROVIDER
You must pick a child care provider for your children. You can select a licensed child care center, a family care home, a friend, neighbor, or relative. You will have to decide the type of care that will be best for your children and meets your family’s needs. When choosing a provider look for signs that your child will be safe, developmentally stimulated, and encouraged to grow and learn. Visit the Qualistar Early Learning website for more information on quality child care or refer to the Parent Handbook you received from the county. You can check into any licensing history for licensed or registered providers.
Once you have chosen a provider you need to contact the county immediately so they can authorize care before you take your child to that provider. They will need the name, address and phone number of the provider along with whether they are licensed or not. You may be responsible to the provider for payment if you do not do this.
NOTIFYING THE COUNTY OF CHANGES
In the Low-Income child care program, you must notify your child care worker of any change in your employment or income within 30 days of the change. For your protection please provide that information in writing and you can use the county's Change of Eligibility Form (SS-7A). If any of the changes mentioned below happen, sit down and write what has changed immediately and get it to your child care worker so you do not forget. This will avoid bigger problems later. These are some of the changes that may happen:
Your work hours change
Changes in the number of people in your household
Your rate of pay or wages
Your address
Your child support income or payment
Your child care provider
Your employment status
Your education status
Any change in your income must be verified by a letter from your employer or by your pay stubs within 30 days of the change. Make sure you get this information to your child care worker as soon as possible. Changes may affect your eligibility. If you change work hours or have to work overtime, you must notify your worker or these hours may not be covered for child care.
COMPLETING YOUR LOW-INCOME REDETERMINATION
Every six (6) months in the Low-Income program, you will be sent a redetermination of eligibility form. This information is required for the county to determine if you still meet the eligibility requirements of the program. You must turn in the signed form along with copies of the most recent three (3) months of income or education verification in the time specified or your child care will end.
PAYING YOUR PARENTAL FEES
You are required to pay a portion of your child care costs. This is called the parental fee schedule. The amount paid is based on your gross income and the number of people in your household. The fee should be paid directly to your provider at the beginning of each month and it is the first money the provider will receive for providing care for your children. If you fail to pay the parental fee, child care benefits may end and you could be unable to receive benefits in the future. Your parental fees must be paid even if you change child care providers.
The parental fee covers the hours agreed upon and is shown on your child care certificate. Providers cannot charge you in excess of the county’s rate for your authorized child care even though their rates for private clients may be higher than the county’s rate. However, providers can charge you for any hours used beyond those authorized on the certificate or late fees if you pick up your child after hours.
MOVING FROM ONE COUNTY TO ANOTHER
If you move from one county to another, there is no guarantee that your low-income child care benefits will transfer. Each county may have different eligibility criteria for Low-Income child care. Before you move, you must inform your child care worker and they can contact the county you are moving into and find out if your services can be transferred to the new county.
HOW TO RECEIVE COLORADO WORKS CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE You will need to work with your TANF technician to receive this assistance.
HOW TO RECEIVE CHILD WELFARE CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE
You will need to work with your Child Welfare worker to receive this assistance.
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Child care financial assistance (also known as child care subsidy) is a payment that helps eligible families with the cost of child care. Payments are made directly to child care providers.
Am I eligible for child care financial assistance?
To be eligible for child care financial assistance your family must:
Ask your provider about scholarships and or sliding fee scales.
Some families who do not qualify for child care financial assistance still struggle to make ends meet. Ask your provider if they provide scholarships or determine rates upon ability to pay.
Check with your employer. Some employers are able to support working families and rising child care costs. Ask your employer about the option to deduct child care expenses prior to taxes, child care contributions, flextime, and onsite child care benefits.
Subsidized child care in Georgia is provided through the Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program to help low income families afford quality child care. The CAPS program is administered in all 159 Georgia counties through the county Department of Family and Children Services.
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As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the SD Department of Social Services’ Division of Child Care, in partnership with the Department of Labor, is offering fr... see full post
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1. What is the Child Care Assistance Program?
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps parents with lower incomes pay for child care while they are working, searching fo... see full post
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The Child Care Assistance Program assists low-income families to pay for the child care they need in order to work or attend school or training. Child Care Assistance can help ... see full post
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Information for Families
The child care assistance program helps low-income working families pay for their child care. Assistance can be provided to families with children u... see full post
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DHS' Child Care Assistance Program provides low-income, working families with access to quality, affordable child care that allows them to continue working and contributes to t... see full post
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The Child Care Assistance program helps low-income families to pay for child care while working, looking for work, attending school or training. Monthly payments are based on ... see full post
To find additional information regarding the Child Care Assistance Program, visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) page. The publications page contains brochures, policy manuals, news, reports a... see full post
Linn County Department of Human Services, located in Cedar Rapids administers the State of Iowa Department of Human Services Child Care Assistance Program for families living in Johnson County. Johnso... see full post
The City of Seattle helps low- and moderate-income working families pay for child care for children ages one month to 13 years. Families can choose from more than approximately 145 licensed family chi... see full post
As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the SD Department of Social Services’ Division of Child Care, in partnership with the Department of Labor, is offering free child care assistance... see full post
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ECEAP and Head Start are comprehensive preschool programs that provide free services and support to eligible children and their families. The goal of both programs is to help e... see full post
KCSP provides cash assistance of $280 per month for each eligible child who resides with a qualified relative other than a parent.
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Do I Qualify for KCSP?
A child may meet ... see full post
Child Care Payment Assistance
The City of Seattle helps low- and moderate-income working families pay for child care for children ages one month to 13 years. Families can choose from more than approxi... see full post
The Child Care Assistance and Referral program provides financial assistance for child care to low and moderate income Fairfax County families who are working, or who are in education/trai... see full post
Children's Home Society of California has three Child Care Assistance Programs that provide subsidized child care services to eligible families, including Alternative Payment, CalWORKs, and Child Prot... see full post
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