While there are grants that benefit black women, as well as all eligible women, they do so indirectly. Grant money flows from the federal government to a state agency to local agencies such as nonprofits, schools and hospitals. The local agencies receive the grants and assist you if you are eligible.
Misconceptions
Although television, print and Internet advertisements imply that there are billions of dollars available in grant money for individuals, this is misleading. It is true that government-funded programs help with home repairs, education, health care and housing, for example. This assistance reaches you through local agencies such as your health department, One-Stop Career Center, local housing authority or local nonprofit organizations. You must apply directly to these local agencies for help.
Pell Grant
One grant that does go directly to individuals is the Pell Grant for education. Applying for the Pell Grant is the first step in seeking assistance for educational expenses. You can apply online to see if you are eligible. You will need the previous year's tax return to answer the questions.
Private Foundation Grants
Although the government does not award grants to individuals, sometimes private foundations will. If you are willing to do the work of applying directly for these,and willing to wait for three to six months to see if your proposal was approved, you can seek these grants at the FoundationCenter.org. If you need financial help immediately, find the local agency that can help you.
Where to Get Help
Low-income women in need of assistance with education should contact their local One-Stop Career Center and ask to speak with a Workforce Investment Act (WIA) caseworker. If eligible for the WIA program, you can get help with tuition, child care and sometimes transportation expenses. Ask the caseworker about other assistance available in your area. The financial aid counselor at the school of your choice is another good source of information. In addition to these resources, you can call United Way's 211 helpline. If they serve your area, they can direct you to programs that may be hard to find otherwise.
Caution
Do not pay for information that is available for free or pay to apply for grants, since applying for assistance is always free at you local service provider.
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