Financial Assistance Options for Individuals and Families in Pomona, CA

Financial difficulties can occur to anyone irrespective of their geographic location, including the residents of Pomona, California. Thankfully, multiple governmental and non-profit organizations offer financial assistance options for individuals and families in need. This guide aims to provide helpful information about the available assistance options, their eligibility criteria, and the application process.

Government Financial Assistance Options

1. CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids): This is California's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program that provides cash aid and services to eligible needy California families. The amount of cash benefit paid depends upon the number of eligible people in the family and the applicable payment level. More program details are available at the official CDSS website.
2. CalFresh: This program can add to your food budget to put healthy and nutritious food on the table. The amount of benefits you can receive is dependent on your family size, countable income, and monthly expenses such as housing, utilities, etc. Visit www.getcalfresh.org to apply online and learn more.
3. Medi-Cal: This program provides free or low-cost health coverage for California residents who meet the income eligibility requirements. For more information, you can visit the official Medi-Cal website.
4. Section 8 Housing: The Housing Authority of the County of Los Angeles (HACLA) offers this voucher program for income-eligible individuals and families. More information can be found at the official HACLA website.
5. Unemployment Insurance: If you're unemployed and meet eligibility requirements, you may qualify for weekly benefit payments. The easiest way to apply is at the EDD website.

Non-Profit Agencies Offering Assistance

1. Inland Valley Hope Partners: Provides emergency food, shelter, and supportive services. More info at their site.
2. Project Sister Family Services: Provides free services for victims and survivors of sexual assault and abuse. Visit their website.
3. Pomona Valley Habitat for Humanity: Assists community members with housing by offering a “hand up, not a hand-out.” Visit their website for more info.

Strategies to Overcome Financial Need

Besides seeking out governmental and non-profit assistance, consider exploring ways on how to improve your financial situation.

1. Change your mindset: Understand that your current situation is temporary and take small steps towards changing it.
2. Create a budget: Assess your income and outgoings, develop a rigid budget and stick to it. Reducing your expenditures can help you save money to invest, pay down debts or create emergency savings.
3. Start a side gig: Look for ways to supplement your income. It could be offering freelance services, selling handmade products, or becoming a micro-entrepreneur.
4. Find a mentor: Seek advice from successful people who were formerly in your situation. They may provide valuable insights and tips.
5. Improve financially related skills: Attend online or local financial literacy programs and improve your understanding about money management, investment basics, and personal finance.
6. Debt Management: Create a plan to manage and reduce your debts. Seek free advice from non-profit credit counseling services if needed.
7. Invest in education: Improve your skills or learn new ones to increase your employability and earning potential.

Remember, everyone's path to financial stability is unique. Find what works best for you and take small steps every day towards your goal.