Multiple programs exist to help low-income people and their families. These programs are largely funded by the federal government and administered by state government branches to provide food, adult health care, child health care, energy assistance and temporary assistance to low-income or impoverished households.
Food Stamps
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the official name for the food stamp program. SNAP provides citizens, nationals and qualified aliens with a monthly stipend for purchasing food products. SNAP requires that recipients have not only a low monthly income but total household resources of $2,000 or less. Resources include cash, savings account and your personal vehicle in some instances.
Healthcare for Adults
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Medicaid "is available only to certain low-income individuals and families who fit into an eligibility group that is recognized by federal and state law." For example, Ohio Medicaid offers services to adults with disabilities, age 65 or over, pregnant women, and certain women screened for breast or cervical cancer. Recipients must meet citizenship requirements, be a state resident, have or will obtain a Social Security Number and meet financial guidelines for the type of coverage applied for.
Healthcare for Children
Healthcare for children is operated as the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). CHIP is currently financed until fiscal year 2013 under a 2009 reauthorization act and is operated at the state level. In Alabama, CHIP is operated as ALL Kids. The program charges an annual premium of $50 to $100 based on household income. ALL Kids covers doctors' visits, emergencies, immunizations, prescriptions, dental care, vision care and mental health services.
Energy Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program offers assistance to low-income families that spend a large percentage of monthly earnings on home energy costs. Applicants must provide documentation that demonstrates total home income does "not exceed the greater of 150 percent of the poverty level or 60 percent of the state median income" according to the Department of Health and Human Resources.
Temporary Assistance
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program assists low-income people by reducing dependency through job preparation, promoting work and promoting marriage. States administer TANF funds. Louisiana filters TANF money into several different state departments to fund programs such as welfare, after-school care, preschool and job training. Louisiana states that "Generally, TANF programs and services are for a family of three making less than $30,000 a year with minor children under the age of 18." Most states offer TANF program applications online.
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