Athens Georgia Financial Assistance

Athens, GA Financial Assistance

Living in financial need is difficult, but there are resources out there to help, especially for those living in Athens, Georgia. This comprehensive guide will describe the government financial support available, eligibility criteria, and application process, alongside highlighting local non-profit organizations that offer assistance. We will also suggest few strategies to help you cope with and eventually overcome your financial crisis.

Government Financial Assistance Options

There are several types of government assistance programs that can relieve financial stress.

  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This federal assistance program provides monthly cash assistance to families with children under age 18 who are struggling to meet their basic needs.
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Families and individuals can access this program, which provides funds for food purchases.
  • Medicaid: This health insurance program is available to low-income individuals and families, with coverage extending to children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and individuals with disabilities.
  • Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): This program provides housing assistance through vouchers that cover a portion of monthly rent payments.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility for these assistance programs varies by program, but typical criteria include income level, household size, unemployment status, and whether or not the individual or family has young children, elderly adults, pregnant women or disabled individuals. You can check your eligibility on Georgia's Division of Family and Children Services website.

Application Process

To apply for any of these programs, you need to visit Georgia's Division of Family and Children Services website or local state offices, complete the required paperwork, and provide necessary documentation, such as ID cards, income proofs, and proof of residency in Georgia.

Non-profit Agencies in Athens, Georgia

Several non-profit organizations exist in Athens, Georgia, that offer additional help and resources.

  • The Salvation Army: They provide emergency assistance for families in crisis, including food, clothing, and temporary shelter.
  • Athens Area Emergency Food Bank: This food bank provides emergency food assistance to residents experiencing a food crisis.
  • Action Ministries Athens: They offer a range of services, including rent and utility assistance, transitional housing, and childhood hunger relief programs.
  • United Way of Northeast Georgia: This organization offers resources on everything from utility bill assistance, food pantries, homeless shelters, and emergency rent assistance.

Strategies to Overcome Financial Need

While government assistance and non-profit agencies play essential roles, there are steps you can take to improve your financial situation.

  • Budgeting: Create a budget and stick to it. Identify essential expenses and eliminate unnecessary ones.
  • Income Generation: Seek additional income opportunities. This could mean part-time work, freelance gigs, or selling unwanted items.
  • Financial Education: Attend financial literacy workshops or classes. Many community organizations offer these free of charge.
  • Less expensive living: Consider cheaper housing, carpool or public transportation rather than owning a car, and shopping at discount grocery stores or utilizing food banks.

Remember, financial need is often temporary. With assistance, smart planning, and perseverance, you can overcome this challenging time. Take advantage of these resources in Athens, Georgia and start your journey to financial stability today.

Search for Financial Assistance in Georgia


Cities near Athens Georgia


Latest additions in Georgia

Action, Inc.

Affordable Housing Service Home buyer Education program Services for needy citizens .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9535940,-83.3662650

Phone
(706) 546-8293
Location
Athens, GA

Avenues for the Homeless

Provides REFERRALS to homeless services. DOES NOT give out food, shelter, clothing, money, etc. Can transport to shelters, soup kitchens, etc. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9448436,-83.4323375

Phone
(706) 850-5164
Location
Athens, GA

Beech Haven Baptist Church- General Assistance

Offers financial assistance for rent & utilities by appointment only.Does not help with utility or rent deposits, or disconnected services.-Any other form of assistance must be through a referral from a social/case worker. Does not provide referrals to .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9483310,-83.4165500

Phone
(706) 548-7084
Location
Athens, GA

Bloomfield Fund c/o Emmanuel Episcopal Church

Provides financial assistance to meet medical needs (prescription, supplies/equipment, home modification) for families of children with physical or developmental disabilitiesAge groupinfant to age 18 .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
31.4564605,-83.5033040

Phone
(706) 543-1294
Location
Athens, GA

Clute Barrow Nelson Life Foundation

Provides financial support to families with a child with a diagnosis of cancerNot limited to medical costs: can help with household expenses, funeral expenses, transportation costs, or any other costs incurred due to the child's illness .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9315850,-83.3878749

Phone
(706) 475-4900
Location
Athens, GA

Empty Stocking Fund

- Provide emergency financial assistance with almost any need but utility bills unless it is a life threatening situation- Must have verified referral needed from area agency. The agencies below can write a referral **Ark- must qualify for services there and have attempted to contact other providers to request assistance in order to receive referral** DFCS- Speak with Mr. Thurmond. Must bring documentation of need and circumstance surrounding need (unemployment information, illness, etc.)** Athens Community Council on Aging- for seniors in need- Help given once in 12 months- Does not assist with Christmas toys, etc. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9448436,-83.4323375

Phone
(706) 549-0123
Location
Athens, GA

Georgia Cares Program (Athens)

- Consumer information about health insurance managed care- Help with understanding your rights as a Medicare beneficiary or health insurance policyholder- Help with comparing & evaluating health insurance and managed care plans- Information on long-term care and long-term care insurance- Help sorting through medical bills and assistance filing medical claims- Legal assistance with complicated Medicare problems- Referral to other agencies such as Social Security or DFCS- Community education on health insurance issues- Counseling in person and limited telephone counseling .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9640960,-83.3795570

Phone
(706) 549-4850
Location
Athens, GA

Health Dept.--Clarke Co.

Public Health Programs Aids Testing and Counseling Cancer Detection Program Child Health Program Children's Medical Services Community Care Services Diabetes Screening Environmental Health Services Family Planning Program Sickle Cell Program Hearing, Vision, Dental Program Immunization Program Mammogram Screening Program Scoliosis Screening SHAPP (Stroke and Heart Attack Prevention Program) STD Screening and Treatment Tuberculosis Program WIC Program Perinatal Case Management Women's Health Medicaid Program-a program whereby an uninsured, under-insured, low income woman who has been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer may be eligible for full coverage Medicaid. Georgia Cancer State Aid Program-funds diagnosis and treatment for medically needy cancer patients. Applicants must be uninsured, underinsured and not eligible for full coverage Medicaid; must meet medical eligibility requirements and financial guidelines. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9580531,-83.3882889

Phone
(706) 542-8600
Location
Athens, GA

Sparrow's Nest Holiday Assistance (2009)

Available to people currently participating in Sparrow's Nest programs.typically serve 500-700 children .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9500000,-83.3833333

Phone
(706) 247-2365
Location
Athens, GA

St. Joseph's Holiday Assistance Program

Priority goes to elderly parishioners, church parishioners, and outside community they have not helped beforeWill schedule an appointment to be interviewed.Each individual (adult and child) will receive a present and family will receive a food basket. Wil .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9600910,-83.3812515

Phone
(706) 549-4208
Location
Athens, GA

The Cancer Foundation of Northeast GA

Only serves persons in treatment for CancerService Description:-Past due rent or mortgage-Pharmacy prescriptions not covered by insurance-Past due gas, electric, and water bills.-Insurance premiums (CODRA)-Insurance co-payments and deductibles-Groceries (gift cards)-Durable medical equipment .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9846950,-83.4167750

Phone
(706) 353-4354
Location
Athens, GA

Timothy Baptist Church- General Assistance

All January Appointments have been filled. Taking February Appointments starting JANUARY 25.$50 cap for rent and utilitiesRENT- client need to have an eviction noticeUTILITIES - Service is off and the client is trying to get it on in the SAME location. No .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9198630,-83.4039860

Phone
(706) 549-1435
Location
Athens, GA

Upward Bound Program

- Helps young people and high school students prepare for higher education- Participants receive instruction in literature, composition, foreign languages, mathematics, and science on college campuses after school, on Saturdays, and during the summer- Offers counseling and mentoring, parent involvement, academic advising, study/test-taking skills, tutoring, career orientation and advising, campus visits, cultural field trips, post-secondary school admissions assistance, financial aid program, Achievers Club, and community service program .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9599145,-83.3776221

Phone
(706) 542-4128
Location
Athens, GA

Jeannette Rankin Foundation Inc

Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund raises funds and awards scholarships annually to low-income women, ages 35 and older, who are in an accredited undergraduate or vocational training program and have a vision of how their education will benefit themselves, their families, and their communities. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9347880,-83.4683639

Phone
(706)208-1211
Location
Athens, GA

The Cancer Foundation Of Northeast Georgia

The Cancer Foundation of Northeast Georgia (CFNEGA) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help alleviate the financial burden of cancer for eligible patients. The Cancer Foundation of Northeast Georgia (CFNEGA) is a local 501(c)3 non-profit that provides emergency financial assistance for basic life needs such as housing, utilities, food and medications. The ultimate goal of The CFNEGA is to provide emergency monetary assistance to cancer patients living in Northeast Georgia. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9846950,-83.4167750

Phone
(706) 353-4354
Location
Athens, GA

ACTION, Inc. (Clarke)- Financial Assistance

Hours of operation: M-F 8-4 Offers Rent Assistance Heating & Cooling Assistance (Seasonal, based on funding) 1.Grants and revolving loans are available to people who earn up to twice the federal poverty level, or $21,660 a year for an individual, plus another $7,480 for each additional family member. The low- and no-interest loans will not require collateral, unlike most bank loans and government loan funds. 2. After entrepreneurs complete a class on developing a business plan, finance and marketing, the program will pay for their business licenses and state registration fees. 3. Counseling and money to help keep homeowners out of foreclosure also will be available as part of the grant. ACTION can make up to three mortgage payments, a total of $1,500, for homeowners who are falling behind Adults (ages 18-59); Clarke; Cooling/Heating Assistance; General Volunteer Programs; Mortgage Assistance; Older Adults (Ages 60+); Rent Assistance; Utility Assistance; .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9535940,-83.3662650

Phone
(706) 549-9827
Location
Athens, GA

Advantage Behavioral Health Systems (HPRP)

Eligibility requirements: Mental health and substance abuse diagnosis. Re-housing for the general population. Area served: Clarke Services Rent and utility assistance only for specific population (Mental Health and substance abuse diagnosis) Re-Housing for general population only. Clarke; Mental Health Support Group; Rent Assistance; Utility Assistance; .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9717150,-83.3650410

Phone
(706) 354-1154
Location
Athens, GA

Ark - General Assistance

Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 9am -12:30 pm Wednesday 9am - 11am is a walk in day for first time clients. Fees charged: No fee for services. Intake procedure: Must make an Appointment. Walk-ins accepted Wednesday 9:00 - 11:00 AM. Bring photo ID and proof of address, proof of income and bills. Eligibility requirements: None. Referrals accepted from ACTION, Inc. for counties outside Clarke and Oconee. Languages spoken or available: English, Must bring a Spanish interpreter Area served: Clarke County and Oconee ; with ACTION, Inc. referral will serve Madison, and Oglethorpe Services - Provides financial assistance for rent, utilities, prescriptions(Clarke county residents only), and dental emergencies. - Must provide documentation for a LOSS of income within the last 30-60 days. Loss of income can be job or medical related. It can also be due to unexpected expense such as large car repair. - Can not have been fired or quit from a job. - Must call for an appointment. - To receive assistance must qualify under their guidelines. - Does not have Spanish interpreter on-site. Does Not provide assistance with: Rent and utility deposits. Bills from previous locations or in someone else s name. NO assistance with cable, phone, credit cards and clothing. Prescription must be less than two days old (except weekends). Adults (ages 18-59); Clarke; Dental Care Financial Support; Food Pantry; Madison; Oconee; Oglethorpe; Older Adults (Ages 60+); Prescription Assistance; Rent Assistance; Utility Assistance; .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9688850,-83.3864200

Phone
(706) 548-8155
Location
Athens , GA

Beech Haven Baptist Church- General Assistance

Hours of operation: Monday 9:00AM - 5:00PM to make an appointment for the following Tuesday afternoon. Intake procedure: Appointment Only Eligibility requirements: Picture ID/ driver s license, most recent utility bill, rent balance or mortgage statement Languages spoken or available: English Area served: Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Jackson, Madison, Oconee, and Oglethorpe counties. - Offers financial assistance for rent & utilities by appointment only - Does not help with utility or rent deposits, or disconnected services .-Any other form of assistance must be through a referral from a social/case worker. Does not provide referrals to other agencies. Adults (ages 18-59); Barrow; Clarke; Elbert; Jackson; Madison; Oconee; Oglethorpe; Older Adults (Ages 60+); Rent Assistance; Utility Assistance; .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9483310,-83.4165500

Phone
(706) 548-7084
Location
Athens, GA

Bloomfield Fund

- Provides financial assistance to meet medical needs (prescription, supplies/equipment, home modification) for families of children with physical or developmental disabilities - Age group- infant to age 18 Fill out form on website. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9607745,-83.3857501

Phone
(706) 543-1294
Location
Athens, GA

Community Connection of Northeast Georgia (HPRP)

Hours of operation: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:30AM to 12:00PM Eligibility requirements: Clarke Co. Resident, impending threat of eviction from rental unit, inadequate financial resources to remain in existing housing, sudden loss of income or expected expense or traumatic event within 12 months. Clarke; Rent Assistance; Utility Assistance; .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9524407,-83.4038894

Phone
(706) 201-4515
Location
Athens, GA

Community Connection of Northeast Georgia (HPRP)

The hours of operation are: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:30AM to 12:00PM There are no fees associated with obtaining rent assistance. The intake procedure is Call case manager Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Clarke Co. Resident, impending threat of eviction from rental unit, inadequate financial resources to remain in existing housing, sudden loss of income or expected expense or traumatic event within 12 months. The areas served are: Clarke Tanya Wingfield - Case Manager .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9524407,-83.4038894

Phone
(706)201-4515
Location
Athens, GA

Timothy Baptist Church- General Assistance

The hours of operation are: Monday - Thursday 8:00AM - 5:00PM Fees applicable are: No fee for services. The intake procedure is Appointment required. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: DESCONNECTION NOTICE for Utilities -EVICTION NOTICE for Rent Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Clarke County .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9198630,-83.4039860

Phone
(706) 549-1435
Location
Athens, GA

Ebenezer Baptist Church - West

The hours of operation are: Monday - Thursday 5:30PM - 7:00 PM, Dinner on Wednesdays at the Campus View (bridge) Fees applicable are: No charge for services The intake procedure is Walk-in Only. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: ID and Social Security Card required. If received assistance from them can not return for 6 months after the first assistance, 1 year after the second assistance, and 2 years after the third assistance. Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Northeast Georgia church office .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9546820,-83.3916910

Phone
(706) 543-9644
Location
Athens, GA

Project Safe (HPRP/ For Domestic Violence Victims Only)

There are no fees associated with obtaining rent assistance. The intake procedure is Via crisis line for general services. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Domestic violence The areas served are: Clarke County Alexis Graf and Stacy Sampson .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9500000,-83.4100000

Phone
(706) 549-0922
Location
Athens, GA

Empty Stocking Fund

The intake procedure is Must be referred by local agency Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Individuals who fall in between the cracks and perhaps don t qualify for other assistance The areas served are: Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, Madison, Oconee & Oglethorpe counties .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9448436,-83.4323375

Phone
(706) 549-0123
Location
Athens, GA

Advantage Behavioral Health Systems (HPRP)

There are no fees associated with obtaining rent assistance. The intake procedure is Phone call Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Mental health and substance abuse diagnosis. Re-housing for the general population. The areas served are: Clarke Ryan Halsey .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9717150,-83.3650410

Phone
(706) 354-1154
Location
Athens, GA

Ark - Senior Rent Assistance (NOAH)

The hours of operation are: Monday-Friday 9:00AM - 12:30PM Wednesday 9:00AM - 11:00AM for walk ins. Fees applicable are: N/A The intake procedure is Must schedule an appointment. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Must be 55 or older, NO loss of income required. Referrals accepted from Action for counties outside of Clarke Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Clarke .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9688850,-83.3864200

Phone
(706) 548-8155
Location
Athens, GA

AIDS Athens (HPRP/ For HIV positive individuals only)

The hours of operation are: Monday - Friday 8-5 There are no fees associated with obtaining rent assistance. The intake procedure is Appointment preferred, referral required from doctor, agency, or clinic. AIDS Athens will direct to HPRP or other support. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Eligible HIV/AIDS consumers. The areas served are: Clarke Libby Fennell .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9632295,-83.3982201

Phone
(706) 542-2437
Location
Athens, GA

ACTION, Inc. (Clarke)- Financial Assistance

The hours of operation are: M-F 8-4 Fees applicable are: no fees, but some classes are mandatory for some programs. (Free classes) The intake procedure is Appointment preferred Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Clarke Co Resident, Must qualify for program assistance. Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Clarke .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9535940,-83.3662650

Phone
(706) 549-9827
Location
Athens, GA

Salvation Army FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE-Athens (UWNEGA)

The hours of operation are: Monday-Friday 10:00am-4:30pm Fees applicable are: no fee The intake procedure is Call from 10am-4:30pm for a short phone interview. If you qualify, they ll give you an appointment. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Income & expenses to prove qualified Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Clarke, Madison, and Oglethorpe counties .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9582950,-83.4123840

Phone
(706) 543-5350
Location
Athens, GA

Salvation Army - Athens (HPRP)

There are no fees associated with obtaining rent assistance. The intake procedure is Call Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Currently taking referrals. Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Barrow, Green, Jackson, Morgan, Oconee, Walton Yvonne Williams .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9582950,-83.4123840

Phone
(706) 543-5350
Location
Athens, GA

St. Joseph Charities

The hours of operation are: office hours Monday & Wednesday from 10:00:AM to 12:00PM. Accept calls Monday,Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10-12. Fees applicable are: No fee for services. Clients can get assistance every 4 months (per household). The intake procedure is MUST Call for appointment. Walk-in for emergency RX ONLY. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: No restrictions- phone interview required. Picture ID, SS card (not required), proof of income and expenses (preceding month). Languages spoken or available at this organziation English/ Some Spanish on Wednesday The areas served are: Clarke (Jackson, Madison, Oconee, and Oglethorpe Counties need to have a written referral from ACTION or the Ark). .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9600910,-83.3812515

Phone
(706) 549-4208
Location
Athens, GA

Georgia Department of Community Affairs (Athens)

The hours of operation are: Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Fees applicable are: Not applicable. The intake procedure is Applications accepted only if waiting list is open Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Income-based eligibility Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Northeast Georgia To check if the waiting list is open .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9173070,-83.4409740

Phone
(404) 327-7912
Location
Athens, GA

Beech Haven Baptist Church- General Assistance

The hours of operation are: Monday 9:00AM - 5:00PM to make an appointment for the following Tuesday afternoon. Fees applicable are: None. The intake procedure is Appointment Only Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Picture ID/ driver s license, most recent utility bill, rent balance or mortgage statement Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Jackson, Madison, Oconee, and Oglethorpe counties. ) 548-7084 Special assistance request line .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9483310,-83.4165500

Phone
(706) 548-2246
Location
Athens, GA

The Cancer Foundation of Northeast GA

The hours of operation are: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm There are no fees associated with obtaining rent assistance. The intake procedure is Referral required from oncology social worker, patient account representative, nurse, physician assistant or physician. Completed application, proof of income and copy of bill. Eligibility for this rent assistance program: Income must be within 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Assets cannot exceed $9,000 for an individual, $12,000 for a couple. Must currently be in treatment (chemotherapy/radiation) or be within a 3 month post-treatment period. Must be a resident of the 10 county service area. Languages spoken or available at this organziation English The areas served are: Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Walton counties. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9846950,-83.4167750

Phone
(706) 353-4354
Location
Athens, GA

Department of Human and Economic Development - ATHENSCLARKE COUNTY

*Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program* On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009,which ludes $1.5 billion for a Homelessness Prevention Fund. Funding for this program, called the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP), is being distributed based on the formula used for the Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) program. Grantees may provide rental assistance or services to eligible program participants who are residing or would like to reside outside their jurisdiction. They may also fund ubgrantees that serve persons outside of the jurisdiction, subgrantees that are located outside of the jurisdiction, and subgrantees that serve multiple jurisdictions. A grantee may establish more stringent requirements, such as requiring that HPRP funds be spent within the jurisdiction or establishing a residency requirement,but HUD is not setting these requirements. Counties served:Fulton County .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
33.9662250,-83.3999507

Phone
(706) 6133155
Location
Athens, GA