Despite showing great resilience, many individuals and families in Wilmington, North Carolina are dealing with financial hardship. The good news is various government agencies and non-profit organizations can offer support. With this guide, we aim to shed light on some options for those in need.

Government Financial Assistance:

Here are some of the main government assistance options available in Wilmington:

• Food and Nutrition Services (FNS):

  This program provides electronic benefit transfer cards (akin to debit cards) for groceries purchase. Eligibility is determined by income, residency and citizenship.

• Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP):

  It offers a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households afford heating costs.

• Medicaid and NC Health Choice for Children:

  They offer healthcare assistance to families at or below certain income thresholds.

• Emergency Assistance Program:

  This program supports families with a crisis such as eviction, disconnection of utilities, or a life-threatening condition or illness.

• The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program:

  This government subsidy assists low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market.

Applying for Assistance:

Applications can be made online, by mail or in-person. For instance, the NC ePass portal offers a way to apply online for Medicaid, FNS, and some other programs. Physical applications can be submitted to the nearest Department of Social Services (DSS) office.

Non-Profit Agencies:

Apart from government assistance, several non-profit organizations in Wilmington offer help:

• Cape Fear Literacy Council:

  They provide educational services and workforce development for adults looking to improve their employment prospects.

• Catholic Charities:

  This organization offers emergency financial assistance, food and basic needs assistance, and counseling.

• Good Shepherd Center:

  They provide food, shelter, and supportive services for the homeless or those at risk of homelessness.

Strategies to Overcome Financial Hardship:

If you're facing financial hardship, here are some strategies that may help:

• Create a Budget:

  Track your income and expenses to understand your financial position better. Cut down unnecessary spending and prioritize essential needs.

• Educate Yourself:

  Information is power. Understand your rights, study the eligibility criteria for different programs, and don't hesitate to ask questions.

• Seek Assistance:

  Reach out to government agencies and non-profit organizations available in your community. The help they provide can ease financial stress and provide a pathway to stability.

• Foster a Support Network:

  Building a strong network of community, family, and friends can provide emotional support, practical advice, and possibly job or training opportunities.