Guide for Government Financial Assistance in Bakersfield, California

Unexpected life events, loss of employment, or sudden medical issues can often lead to financial hardship. Fortunately, several governmental and non-governmental resources are available to assist Bakersfield residents struggling financially. These resources include government financial aid programs, subsidies, and non-profit agencies dedicated to helping you during these challenging times.

Government Financial Aid Programs

Foremost, the U.S. government provides assistance for people in financial need. Here, we are presenting two major programs:

CalWORKs

California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) is a financial aid program that provides cash aid and services to eligible families that have a child(ren) in the home. To qualify, your family must be income-eligible, have a qualifying child, and meet certain technical requirements. Visit the "Apply for Benefits" section of the California Department of Social Services to apply.

CalFresh

CalFresh, formerly known as Food Stamps, provides benefits that help supplement your food budget and allow families and individuals to afford nutritious food. Eligibility is based on your income, expenses, and the number of persons in your household. More information is available on the California Department of Social Services website.

Government Subsidies

Subsidies are a form of financial aid or support that the government extends to an economic sector, business, or individual. They can be offered via involving direct cash transfers or by reducing costs (such as tax breaks). Some key subsidies include:

Housing Choice Voucher Program

Commonly known as Section 8, this federal program provides assistance to low-income families and elderly or disabled individuals to rent safe and decent housing in the private market. Apply through the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal is a health insurance program for low-income individuals and families in California. It offers free or low-cost health insurance, with federal and state tax subsidies to reduce the cost of insurance. Check your eligibility and apply on the Covered California website.

Non-profit Agencies

Several non-profit agencies provide support to those in financial need. The two most notable ones include:

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army Bakersfield offers financial assistance, including help with rent, food assistance, and utility assistance. Visit their official website for more information.

United Way of Kern County

United Way offers numerous resources, including help with income support, healthcare, education, and more. Visit the United Way of Kern County site.

Strategies for Financial Improvement

In addition to utilizing available resources, adopting savvy financial strategies can help improve your financial situation. They include:

• Budgeting: Create a comprehensive and realistic budget to manage your expenses.
• Debt Management: Strategically managing or consolidating your debts can help reduce your financial burden and boost your credit rating.
• Saving and Investing: Aim to save a portion of your income whenever possible. Additionally, consider safe and small-scale investments to grow your savings.

In summary, residents of Bakersfield have a variety of resources available to help in times of financial hardship. From government programs to non-profit assistance, there are plenty of support systems in place to help you find your footing.