Memphis, TN Financial Assistance
A Guide to Financial Assistance for Individuals and Families in Memphis, Tennessee
Financial hardship can hit any family or individual at any time due to unexpected circumstances. However, residents of Memphis, Tennessee, are fortunate to have various financial assistance options available to them. This guide will provide information on Government financial assistance options, eligibility criteria, as well as methods of application.
Government Financial Assistance Options
Several programs are available to help families in financial need. The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) administers many of these, including the Families First program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and, Child Care Certificates.
Families First Program
It's Tennessee's welfare program that provides cash benefits to families requiring financial assistance. It is a time-limited program, aiming to assist families to become independent through employment.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP offers nutrition assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. It provides electronic benefit transfer cards that act like debit cards and can be used to buy eligible food in authorized retail stores.
Child Care Certificate
Child Care Certificates are vouchers that qualifying families can utilize towards payment for child care. The cost of child care should not be a barrier to employment or education, and this program aims to support those needs.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility for these programs generally revolves around the family’s or individual’s income compared to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Each program has unique eligibility criteria. More specific information on the eligibility criteria for each assistance program is available on the TDHS website.
Application Process
The easiest way to apply for these benefits is online, via the TDHS website. You can also apply in person at a TDHS office. To expedite the process, you will need identification documents, proof of residence, income information, and medical records (if relevant).
Government Housing Assistance and Subsidies
Memphis residents looking for affordable housing have the option to apply for the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) available through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency. The program offers rental assistance to eligible families based on income, family size, and family circumstances.
Non-profit Agencies
Non-profit organizations also play a significant role in providing financial assistance. In Memphis, a few notable non-profits include the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA), which offers emergency services and financial aid, and the Agape Child & Family Services, which provides holistic support to families in need.
Strategies for Breaking out of Financial Need
While assistance is crucial during challenging times, it's also important to consider strategies to break the cycle of financial need. Seek job assistance programs like the American Job Center, which provides resources and coaching for job seekers. Consider taking part in financial literacy programs to better manage your money and try to save a small portion of income for emergencies. Examples of such programs in Memphis include the RISE Foundation and Operation HOPE.
Overall, remember that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a first step towards regaining financial independence. By utilizing available resources and support and working towards self-sufficiency, you can navigate through challenging times to a stable financial future.
Search for Financial Assistance in Tennessee
Latest additions in Tennessee
Nat'l Foundation for Transplants
The National
Foundation for Transplants formerly Organ Transplant Fund mission is
reaching out to help those who seek new life through transplantation, by
providing a program of healthcare and financial support services and
patient advocacy for transplant candidates, recipients and their
families nationwide.
To access financial assistance to pay for
transplant care, please call NFT toll free and ask to speak with a
Patient Referral Counselor.
NFT provides assistance based on a
patient's financial need and on the availability of funds.
NFT also
advocates on behalf of patients in negotiating bills. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.1073410,-89.8839350
- Phone
- (800) 489-3863
- Location
- Memphis, TN
VolunteerDebt Away Program
* Helps student loan
holders repay their student loan* Gives individuals the opportunity to
volunteer in urban area at non-profit organizations to repay their
student loans .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.0521526,-89.7869817
- Phone
- (NO ) NUM-BER
- Location
- Memphis, TN
VolunteerDebt Away Program
* Helps student loan
holders repay their student loan* Gives individuals the opportunity to
volunteer in urban area at non-profit organizations to repay their
student loans .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.0521526,-89.7869817
- Phone
- (NO ) NUM-BER
- Location
- Memphis, TN
Friends For Life Corporation
The mission of Friends
For Life Corporation is to provide critical services, basic needs, and
outreach programs that empower those affected by HIV/AIDS to optimize
their longevity and quality of life. Their comprehensive, client-centered
approach includes education, housing, food, transportation, healthcare,
and healthy life skills. They strive to enlighten the Mid-South community
in a manner that heightens awareness, facilitates acceptance, and
promotes prevention. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.1401630,-90.0163738
- Phone
- (901) 272-0855
- Location
- Memphis, TN
United Methodist Neighborhood Centers Inc
We are
committed to enhancing the physical and spiritual lives of individuals
and families by bringing together churches and neighbors to provide
child care, spiritual development, social services and education. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.1358304,-89.9621123
- Phone
- (901) 323-4993
- Location
- Memphis, TN
Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association
MIFA changes the
community by helping change lives. .. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.1343160,-90.0316370
- Phone
- (901) 527-0208
- Location
- Memphis, TN
Division of Housing and Community Development - MEMPHIS
*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:Davidson County
.. (continue to details page for more info and costs)
35.1636859,-90.0455868
- Phone
- (901) 5767313
- Location
- Memphis , TN