Are There Free Grants for Felons in Minnesota? Yes, there are grants for felons in Minnesota that provide housing, job training, financial assistance, and education support after release. Some of the popular programs include Amicus Reentry Program (Volunteers of America), Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project (CMNRP), Returning Home Saint Paul (RHSP), and Better Futures Minnesota. Many state, federal, and nonprofit programs do not automatically disqualify felons. This guide provides complete information on eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for reentry programs for felons in Minnesota.
Best Reentry Programs for Felons in Minnesota
Reentry grants for felons in Minnesota are available through Minnesota Re-Entry Pilot Program, Amicus & Volunteers of America (VOA) and CMNRP, supporting individuals with housing assistance, employment support, and mentoring.
Minnesota Re-Entry Pilot Program
The Minnesota Re-Entry Pilot Program is a state-supported initiative designed to assist felons in Minnesota who are recently released to transition successfully back into society. The program offers reentry support, including housing assistance, employment services, education opportunities, and case management that help in reducing recidivism.
Eligibility For Minnesota Re-Entry Pilot Program
To be eligible for Minnesota Re-Entry Pilot Program, individuals must have a felony conviction, recently released or nearing release from incarceration, a Minnesota resident, demonstrate a need for reentry support and must comply with the rules of the program.
How To Apply For Minnesota Re-Entry Pilot Program?
The Re-Entry Pilot Program is typically referral-based, therefore individuals need to connect with their reentry case manager before release and request for a referral to the Re-Entry Pilot Program. You might need to complete an intake and needs assessment and submit the required documents to get enrolled and receive a personalized reentry plan. To get more information about the pilot program visit the official website of Minnesota Department of Corrections. For further queries related to application and eligibility call at 651-361-7200.
Amicus & Volunteers of America (VOA)
Volunteers of America Minnesota and Wisconsin operates the Amicus Reentry Programs, it is one of the most well known reentry support services for felons in Minnesota. The Amicus program mainly focuses on helping incarcerated individuals after release to rebuild their lives by providing them with housing assistance, employment support, mentoring, and daily living resources. Amicus Reconnect drop-in center offers direct help without any appointment to meet the immediate needs of felons after release.
Eligibility For Amicus & Volunteers of America (VOA)
The Amicus & Volunteers of America (VOA) does not have any specific eligibility requirements. Individuals must be 18 years or older, having criminal records or history of incarceration, seeking reentry support services and there is no income requirement.
How To Apply For Amicus & Volunteers of America (VOA)?
To apply for Amicus & Volunteers of America (VOA), you need to visit the Amicus Reconnect drop-in center and talk with a staff member or counselor to get help with housing search, job applications and other basic needs. To learn more about Amicus Reentry Programs, visit the official website of Volunteers of America.
Address: 3041 4th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: 612-877-4250
Email: [email protected]
Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project (CMNRP)
The Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project (CMNRP) is a nonprofit reentry program that provides assistance to individuals with felony convictions to successfully transition back into the community after release. The project mainly focuses on reentry services for felons in Minnesota through transitional housing, employment support, and community reintegration. The program works in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Corrections and local community corrections to support the eligible individuals during reentry.
Eligibility For Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project (CMNRP)
To be eligible for Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project (CMNRP), individuals must have a felony conviction in Minnesota, must be from Stearns, Benton or Sherburne county, must be within 365 days of release and must be on supervision.
Application Process For Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project (CMNRP)
CMNRP is referral-based, it is recommended to contact CMNRP directly through probation/parole office or reentry case manager. You need to complete an intake and eligibility screening and provide basic documentation including release information and supervision status. Once approved you can get access to the services run under the Central Minnesota Re-Entry Project. To get more information visit the official website of CMNRP.
Address: PO Box 2391, St. Cloud, MN 56302
Phone: 320-310-1797
Email: [email protected]
Housing Assistance for Felons in Minnesota
Housing assistance programs for felons in Minnesota are available through Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF), FHPAP and Bridging Benefit Program, to reduce homelessness and provide housing stability.
Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF)
The Housing Trust Fund (HTF) Rental Assistance Program in Minnesota is a state-funded housing support program that provides help with temporary rental assistance, security deposits, and housing-related costs to the eligible low-income individuals including felons who are facing homelessness or housing instability. The main aim of HTF is to provide the participants with stable housing and transition towards permanent housing.
Eligibility For Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF)
To be eligible for Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF) programs, individuals must have low income, experiencing homelessness, must be classified as High Priority Homeless (HPH) through assessment and referred by the Coordinated Entry (CE) System. HTF does not automatically disqualify felons from receiving the assistance.
How To Apply For Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF)?
You cannot apply for the Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF) directly, you are required to contact your local Coordinated Entry System (CES), complete your housing needs assessment and get classified as high priority homeless (HPH) and work with your provider to find housing. To learn more visit the Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance (HTF) program page. For general queries related to eligibility and application email them at [email protected].
Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP)
The Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP) is a Minnesota state-funded housing assistance program that offers short-term financial assistance to help out the individuals and families who are at a risk of homelessness. FHPAP offers assistance with rent payments, security deposits, and utility bills to prevent eviction or help people quickly secure housing.
Eligibility For Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP)
To be eligible for Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP) individuals must have income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, must be a Minnesota resident, facing homelessness OR at a risk of homelessness. FHPAP is open to families with or without children, single adults, and youth 18-24. FHPAP does not have any strict felony restriction.
How To Apply For Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP)?
FHPAP does not have any direct application page, you need to apply though local providers. You can contact the FHPAP provider by dialing 211 and complete your housing assessment. Submit your documents like your ID, rental or eviction notice and work with your case manager to secure new housing. To learn more visit the FHPAP program page and for general queries email Diane Elias at [email protected].
Bridging Benefits Program in Minnesota
The Bridging Benefits Program (Reentry Housing Support) in Minnesota runs a housing assistance initiative designed to help out the felons to transition back to the community after release. The program focuses on providing immediate, short-term housing support combined with structured reentry services. The program acts as a bridge between incarceration and independent living, thus helping the participants to secure stable housing.
Eligibility For Bridging Benefits Program
To be eligible for Bridging Benefits Program, individuals must be recently released from incarceration, must be homeless or at risk of homelessness, have low income or no income, must comply with program rules and must be referred through a correctional facility or reentry partner.
How To Apply For Bridging Benefits Program?
Individuals cannot apply directly for the Bridging Benefits Program, you are required to speak with your case manager before release and request for a referral to a Bridging Benefits provider. Complete housing needs assessment, submit the required documents and work with your provider to secure housing. To learn more visit Minnesota Department of Correction and for general queries call 651-361-7200.
The Housing Support Program in Minnesota
The Housing Support Program in Minnesota formerly known as Group Residential Housing – GRH is a state-funded housing assistance program that offers help to the low-income adults, including felons, to pay for housing.
The program is designed for those individuals who are unable to afford stable housing and need supportive services such as supervision, case management, or help with daily living. Felons in Minnesota highly need housing support as it helps them to get access to structured and stable housing where landlords accept individuals having criminal records.
Eligibility For Housing Support Program in Minnesota
To be eligible for Housing Support Program in Minnesota, individuals must be 18 years old, have low income, must qualify for or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or General Assistance (GA), must have housing requirements and must be residing in a Housing Support-approved facility.
How To Apply For A Housing Support Program in Minnesota?
To apply for a housing support program in Minnesota, first you need to apply for General Assistance (GA) or SSI (if not applied). Contact your county human services office and request for Housing Support (GRH) evaluation. Once you get approved you will be placed in a participating housing provider. Remember, you cannot choose any apartment, you must stay in an approved Housing Support facility. To learn more visit the official website of Minnesota Department of Human Services. For general queries call them at 651-431-4000.
Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program
The Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program is a Minnesota state-funded housing initiative that offers long-term rental assistance to low-income households including individuals with felony backgrounds. The program is specifically designed to prevent homelessness and ensure that individuals have access to stable housing through rent support. Bring It Home does not offer short-term support, instead they focus on long-term housing solutions where participants can remain housed while they work towards financial dependence.
Eligibility For Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program
To be eligible for the Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program, individual must have low income (at or below 50% of Area Median Income), must be a Minnesota resident, facing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, meet requirements set by the local program provider and able to contribute a portion of income towards rent.
How To Apply For Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program?
Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program does not have any dedicated application portal. Individuals need to contact a local housing provider or nonprofit agency and complete a housing needs assessment. Submit documents including ID, income verification and housing status proof.
If eligible, individuals will be matched with a participating landlord or unit and start receiving rental benefits. To learn more about the program visit the official website of Minnesota Housing. For further enquiries about eligibility and application email them at [email protected].
Returning Home Saint Paul
The Returning Home Saint Paul (RHSP) program is a city-led reentry housing initiative in Saint Paul, Minnesota designed to help out formerly incarcerated individuals by providing them with housing navigation, financial assistance, and wraparound support services towards independent living. The Returning Home Saint Paul (RHSP) program works in collaboration with community organizations, and housing providers.
Eligibility For Returning Home Saint Paul For Felons
To be eligible for Returning Home Saint Paul, individuals must have a criminal record or history of incarceration, returning to the Saint Paul area after incarceration, must be facing homelessness, willing to participate in case management and support services and referred through a partner organization.
How To Apply For Returning Home Saint Paul For Felons?
You cannot apply directly or online, individuals need to contact a reentry organization or case manager and request for a referral to Returning Home Saint Paul. Applicants need to go through eligibility assessments and if eligible they will get connected to landlords and receive financial assistance. To learn more visit the official website of Saint Paul and for any other program enquiries email them at [email protected].
Education Grants for Felons in Minnesota
Educational programs and college grants for felons in Minnesota are available, including the Minnesota State Grant, Bethel Promise Grant, and the Beyond Backgrounds Program, making higher education more affordable by covering tuition fees.
Minnesota State Grant
The Minnesota State Grant is a state-funded financial aid program that provides help to the eligible residents to pay for their college or vocation education in Minnesota. Felons in Minnesota can get help from the Minnesota State Grant as it does not automatically disqualify them. The purpose of the Minnesota State Grant is to make higher education more affordable by covering part of tuition, fees and other living expenses.
Eligibility For Minnesota State Grant
To be eligible for Minnesota State Grant, individuals must be a Minnesota resident, enrolled in an eligible college or training program, need to demonstrate financial need, have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent degree, enrolled at least half-time and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements.
How To Apply For Minnesota State Grant?
Individuals cannot apply for the Minnesota State Grant directly. You need to complete your FAFSA and list a Minnesota college or institution. Submit the required documents like Income information and identity verification.
Furthermore your college determines the Minnesota State Grant eligibility, if eligible funds are automatically applied to your tuition. To learn more about the Minnesota State Grant, visit the official website of the MN Office of Higher Education. For further enquiries about the program call them at 651-642-0567 or drop an email at [email protected]
Bethel Promise Grant
The Bethel Promise Grant is a need-based institutional financial aid program that is offered by Bethel University to help eligible Minnesota students, including felons, to reduce their cost of tuition. The Bethel Promise Grant is designed to make private college education more affordable and it acts as a “last -dollar” grant, as it covers the remaining tuition costs after applying federal benefits like Pell Grant or other state grants. Tuition can be reduced to $2,000–$4,000 per year for the qualified students.
Eligibility For Bethel Promise Grant
To be eligible for Bethel Promise Grant, individuals must be Minnesota residents, enrolled at Bethel University, having minimum 3.0 high school GPA, qualify for the Minnesota State grant and family income must be under ~$90,000 (AGI).
How To Apply For Bethel Promise Grant?
To apply for Bethel Promise Grant, you need to apply for admission to Bethel University and complete your FAFSA application. Submit the requested documents by the college and if eligible you will automatically be considered for the Bethel Promise Grant. To learn more about the grant visit Bethel Promise Grant page.
Address: 3900 Bethel Drive, St. Paul, MN 55112
Phone: 651-638-6241
Email: [email protected]
Beyond Backgrounds Program
The Beyond Backgrounds Program is operated by HousingLink, it is a housing initiative designed to help out individuals who are facing barriers to housing due to poor credit, evictions and felony convictions. Beyond Backgrounds focuses on removing landlord risk, thus helping individuals with criminal records to secure housing. Furthermore, the program also offers participants help with housing search and renter education.
Eligibility For Beyond Backgrounds Program
To be eligible for the Beyond Backgrounds Program, individuals must have barriers to housing due to criminal record, eviction history or low credit score, must be able to pay a portion of rent, must find a landlord willing to accept Beyond Backgrounds support and must be residing in Minnesota.
How To Apply For Beyond Backgrounds Program?
You cannot apply for the Beyond Backgrounds Program directly, you need to search for housing using HousingLink listings and ask the landlord if they accept Beyond Backgrounds Financial Assurance. If the landlord agrees, you need to purchase the financial assurance (around $300 one-time fee) and submit the required details. For general queries about the program email them at [email protected].
Employment Programs for Felons in Minnesota
Employment and workforce assistance for felons in Minnesota are available through the Restoring Connections Grant Program, Dislocated Worker Program and Better Futures Minnesota, offering help with employment opportunities and job training.
Restoring Connections Grant Program
The Restoring Connections Grant Program in Minnesota is a reentry-focused support initiative that provides assistance to the individuals with felony convictions to successfully rebuild their lives after serving a sentence. The main aim of the program is to provide emotional stability, housing outcomes and employment opportunities.
Eligibility For Restoring Connections Grant Program
To be eligible for the Restoring Connections Grant Program, an individual must have a felony conviction, recently released or currently involved in reentry programs, a Minnesota resident, demonstrate a need for family reunification or support services and be willing to participate in program activities and mentoring.
How To Apply For Restoring Connections Grant Program?
To apply for the Restoring Connections Grant Program, you need to connect with a reentry program, nonprofit, or case manager and request for a referral to the Restoring Connections Program. You need to complete an intake and needs assessment and submit the required documents to get enrolled to the Restoring Connections Grant Program. To explore more about the program visit MN Department of Corrections or call them at 651-361-7200.
Dislocated Worker Program (Minnesota DEED)
The Dislocated Worker Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), is a state-funded employment and training program that offers assistance to the individuals who have lost their jobs or are facing employment barriers.
Felons in Minnesota can take advantage of the program to re-enter the workforce. The Dislocated Worker Program offers career counseling, job training, and financial assistance for education, helping applicants to gain skills and knowledge for in-demand jobs in Minnesota.
Eligibility For Dislocated Worker Program
To be eligible for the Dislocated Worker Program, individuals must have lost a job through no fault of their own OR unemployed and very unlikely to return to the previous occupation.
Individuals must be eligible to work in the U.S, actively seeking for employment and faced lay off, business closure, long term unemployment and economic displacement.
Note: Felons are eligible for the program if they are unemployed after release or need job training or career transition support.
How To Apply For The Dislocated Worker Program?
To apply for the Dislocated Worker Program, you need to visit CareerForce location or apply online. Go through an initial eligibility screening and work with your career counselor to develop an Individual Employment Plan (IEP). To get more information about the Dislocated Worker Program visit the official website of MN Employment and Economic Development. For general queries about eligibility and application call on 651-259-7114.
Better Futures Minnesota
Better Futures Minnesota is a nonprofit organization that offers help to the individual with felony convictions to rebuild their lives after release. The organization is known for offering transitional employment programs where participants can gain real work experience through guidance and support.
Eligibility For Better Futures Minnesota
To be eligible for Better Futures Minnesota, individuals must have a felony conviction or criminal background, must be 18 years or older, be a Minnesota resident, be motivated to work and participate in training programs and must comply with the program rules.
How To Apply For Better Futures Minnesota?
To apply for Better Futures Minnesota, visit the official Better Futures Minnesota website and complete an interest form or contact their office directly. You are required to attend an orientation or intake session to complete eligibility. Once eligible you will be enrolled in the program and receive help with transitional jobs, training programs and support services.
Address: 1915 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Phone: 612-351-2026
Email: [email protected]
Federal Programs for Felons in Minnesota
In addition to state and nonprofit assistance, several federal programs including MFIP, SNAP, Federal Bonding Program, WIOA and the Federal Pell Grant provide support for felons in Minnesota after release.
Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) – TANF in Minnesota
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program in Minnesota known as the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) is available for felons offering monthly cash assistance, employment support, and access to job training programs after release. However, the felons in Minnesota need to meet the basic program eligibility rules to qualify. There is no automatic ban on felons from MFIP. You need to apply for MFIP in Minnesota through the local county human services office or online via the Minnesota Department of Human Services. For further queries related to the program call on 651-431-4000.
Food Assistance (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Minnesota, commonly referred to as Food Support that helps low income individuals and families to buy groceries using an EBT card. Felons in Minnesota are eligible for SNAP as their felony record does not automatically disqualify anyone. The felons need to meet the standard rules of SNAP to receive food assistance. You can apply for Food Support in Minnesota online through the MNbenefits portal or via your local county human services office. For general questions or assistance, you can call 651-431-4050.
The Federal Bonding Program in Minnesota
The Federal Bonding Program in Minnesota is a U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored hiring incentive that offers help to the felons by removing the barriers to employment. The Federal Bonds protect the employers from any kind of theft because of employee dishonesty for the first six months. The Federal Bond that is offered is $5,000. Thus, encouraging the employers to recruit felons in Minnesota without hesitation. Job seekers can access this program through local CareerForce centers across the state. To learn more or find assistance, you can contact Minnesota CareerForce or call 651-259-7500.
The Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell)
The Federal Pell Grant is one of the largest U.S need based college financial aid programs that is available for felons in Minnesota. The individuals who had felony convictions in the past can apply for the Federal Pell Grant if they meet the basic program requirements. However, individuals who are currently incarcerated can apply for the Pell Grant through the Second Chance Pell initiative. Remember to submit your FAFSA application and to apply for Federal Pell Grant visit StudentAid.gov
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for Felons in Minnesota
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in Minnesota provides help to the eligible individuals with criminal records to get access to job training, career counseling, and employment support. WIOA also offers other services like skills training, resume assistance, certification programs, and other supportive services. The workforce programs are delivered through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and local workforce centers. You can visit your nearest CareerForce location to apply or learn more about available programs. For further assistance, call 651-259-7500.
Bottom Line
Rebuilding life after incarceration is possible with the right support. Minnesota offers a wide range of grants and reentry programs that help felons secure housing, find employment, and access education. Most of the programs are referral-based and therefore require early action by connecting with your case manager or visiting local CareerForce centers for faster referrals and assessments. It is recommended to take immediate actions and use these resources to secure housing, find jobs, and successfully reintegrate into society with confidence. If you are looking for complete information about USA Grants for Felons, this guide explains education, housing, employment, and financial support programs available nationwide.
