Last Updated on August 23, 2023 by Hannah Stevens
Nearly 30,000 veterans live in San Francisco. But due to the high cost of living in the city, it is possible that they may struggle to make ends meet. Some may be in between jobs, while others might not be able find work that pays enough to cover their monthly bills. Fortunately, there are grants available for veterans in San Francisco. These can provide a safety net and help to meet basic financial needs during tough times.
Both federal and state funded grants are the most popular grants for veterans in San Francisco. Grants are not like loans since they are not required to be repaid. These grants are in essence gifts that are given to those who are in need of financial assistance. While most grant programs provide short-term assistance, there are others that offer longer-term support. The grant programs can be used to pay for food, rent, utility bills, and more.
Grants offered for veterans in San Francisco
CalFresh
CalFresh is a program that provides assistance to veterans in San Francisco who are unable to obtain food. This program is identical to the national Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known under the name food stamps. Approved applicants will receive a debit-style card where the funds are electronically added every month. You can use the card to buy food at farmer’s markets and grocery stores. In order to qualify, you must meet the low income requirements. Moreover, your current income level and the number of dependents in your household will determine how much you will receive. You can submit your application for CalFresh in San Francisco online or in person. Click the link above to apply.
This is also available as one of the grants for veterans in California.
County Adult Assistance Programs (CAAP)
CAAP cash assistance may be available to veterans who reside in San Francisco and don’t have dependent children. If you qualify, funds are added to the provided debit-style card every month. Then you can use the card to pay your bills, or withdraw cash at an ATM. This program is available to people with low income. You can submit your application online and in person. Click the link above to apply.
CalWORKS
The CalWORKS program is like the national program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program offers cash assistance to anyone who is eligible. Then, the cash provided can be used to pay rent, transportation, food, laundry, bills and other living expenses. This program is available to people who have a low income and have at least one dependent minor child. Moreover, your current income and number of dependent children in your household will determine your monthly benefit. You also need to take part in training or activities related to work because the program’s goal is to make people self-sufficient. You can submit your application online and in person. Click the link above to apply.
Rent Assistance
The mayor’s office offers rent assistance in San Francisco. This program assists people to avoid eviction, rent assistance, and in finding affordable housing options. This program is available to veterans who have low income. You can submit your application online or in person. To apply, click the link above.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
The state of San Francisco offers energy grants to veterans. They may be able to get help with paying their energy bills through the program called HEAP. This program will pay your energy bill directly to the energy provider for you. Additionally, for those who received a disconnection notice, the program offers emergency energy assistance and weatherization services. In order to qualify, you must meet the low income requirements, and you must also be the one in charge of paying the energy bill. You may submit your application online or in person. Click the link above to apply.
Final Remark
Veterans in San Francisco may have difficulty paying their bills at times. Luckily, there are many grants available for them that can act as a safety net during those stressful times. Also, keep in mind that there is no limit to the number of grant programs that you can apply for. So it’s best to apply for every program you feel qualified for, and then see if you can receive grants from them.
