Basic life essentials can be incredibly expensive, but did you know that most states, including Idaho, offer different assistance programs for things such as housing, medical, and more? If you are eligible, make sure that you are taking advantage of these free or low-cost programs. In this article, we will provide resources and help you learn more about the programs that are available in Idaho.

Food Assistance Programs

There are several food assistance programs out there, such as The Idaho Foodbank. This non-profit organization provides food for the people in their communities who are struggling to afford groceries. Things such as fruits, dairy, meats, etc. are given out so everyone has access to delicious and nutritious food. And there are lots of other programs specifically for the state, so be sure to do some research to see what program best fits your needs.

Housing and Utility Assistance

There are also ways to help make housing and utility costs more affordable through groups such as the Idaho Housing and Finance Association, or IHFA. If you are eligible for this assistance program, you receive housing choice vouchers, or HCVs, and pay a certain percentage of your paycheck towards your monthly rent. The other part of your rent is paid by the government through this assistance program. This will allow you to save money for other important things in life, so you do not have to put every penny towards rent. If you are not eligible for this program, make sure to research the other programs this state offers to get the assistance you need.

Medical and Health Coverage

Having medical and health coverage is essential, but it can also feel daunting based on the rising costs of healthcare. Thankfully, this is where programs like Medicaid in Idaho come into play to help ensure that everyone has access to affordable healthcare. If you qualify for Medicaid, you can receive free or low-cost medical treatment to ensure that you are able to stay healthy without struggling financially.

Cash and Emergency Assistance

Most people have had time in their life when they needed assistance in paying for things such as medical emergencies, car troubles, or other unexpected expenses. Something you should know is that Idaho offers a program called Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho, or TAFI. If you are approved for this program, it allows you to receive up to $309 a month for up to 24 months that you can use for emergency expenses, or you can use it to put towards other important things like housing, food, etc. If you think you qualify for this program, be sure to research it and other programs to see what sort of assistance you can receive.

Employment and Education Support

If you are a resident of Idaho (especially born and raised in the state) and are applying to in-state college, check for any form of financial support. Many colleges offer incredible assistance programs, such as Idaho State University, that offers LAUNCH grants. They offer up to $8,000 off tuition if you meet a few guidelines, most of which are already done if you are a born and raised resident in Idaho.

Don’t worry if you weren’t born in Idaho—there are still other programs you can qualify for, such as University of Idaho’s out-of-state scholarships. They offer a variety of different scholarships, and they also offer financial aid. Do your due diligence and see what sort of financial support you might be able to receive if you are trying to further your education.

If you are looking to jump straight into the workforce, but are struggling to find a job, the Idaho Workforce Development Council & Idaho Department of Labor would be a great place to start. They help with job searches, as well as help with finding training for jobs that require unique skillsets. This is another free program that can help propel your future and help you financially in the short-term, as well as the long-term.

There are many different financial assistance programs in Idaho, and people often forget to investigate them. If you are struggling financially, take some time to research different types of programs where you feel you need assistance. If you are not sure you are eligible for a program, do not be afraid to contact the organization directly. They can help you navigate through your situation. And if you ever feel you need extra financial assistance outside of these programs, be sure to visit your local Cash Store. We are always here to support you through your journey!