Are There Reentry Grants for Felons in Oregon? Yes, there are multiple grants for felons in Oregon that help with education, housing, job training, and financial stability after release. Some of the popular programs include the Oregon Promise Grant, Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG), and Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell) that help cover tuition and other educational expenses, making education more affordable.
Furthermore, the availability of housing assistance, job training programs, and federal benefits makes Oregon one of the better states for felons seeking a second chance. These programs are part of Oregon reentry programs for felons designed to support long-term stability after incarceration.
Education Grants for Felons in Oregon (Free College & GED Programs)
There are education grants and scholarship programs for returning citizens in Oregon that help to cover tuition and other educational costs. These grants help felons to pursue college education or certificates at no cost or at a minimal cost.
The Oregon Promise Grant
The Oregon Promise Grant is a state-funded tuition assistance program administered and managed by the Oregon Office of Student Access and Completion. This grant makes education more affordable as it covers community college tuition costs of the eligible students in Oregon. Individuals with criminal records in Oregon can apply for the grant, if they meet the standard requirements. The grant award ranges from $2,202 to $4,584 per year for full-time students and can be used until 90 college credits are completed
Eligibility For The Oregon Promise Grant
To be eligible for The Oregon Promise Grant, an individual must be an Oregon resident for at least 12 months before college, a recent Oregon high school graduate or GED holder, have a minimum 2.0 GPA or GED score of 145+, enrolled in an Oregon community college, have fewer than 90 college credits attempted, and meet income criteria based on Student Aid Index (SAI).
Note: Individuals who have completed their high school or GED while incarcerated or after release may still qualify for this grant if enrolled within the allowed timeframe after release.
How To Apply For The Oregon Promise Grant?
To apply, applicants need to use the OSAC Student Portal and complete the Oregon Promise application. It is recommended to submit either FAFSA or ORSAA and include at least one participating Oregon community college. Submit your application before the deadline and check your email to get updates from OSAC. To get more information about the grant visit the Oregon Promise Grant page. For further queries call them on (541) 687-7400 or email them at [email protected].
The Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG)
The Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG) is administered by the Oregon Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC) and is one of the largest state-funded need-based grants available in Oregon. This grant offers financial assistance to the low-income students to pay for their college education at participating Oregon institutions. The grant award goes up to around $7,524 per year (per student) and is available for up to 4 years. Felons are eligible for the grant, if they meet the standard requirements just like others.
Eligibility For Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG)
To be eligible for Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG, an individual must be an Oregon resident, must be an undergraduate student pursuing their first associate or bachelor’s degree, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA or ORSAA, enrolled at least half-time in an eligible Oregon college or university, studying in a degree or approved certificate program, have not completed a bachelor’s degree and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
How To Apply For Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG)?
To apply for the Oregon Opportunity Grant, students are required to complete the FAFSA or ORSAA application as early as possible to determine income eligibility. OOG does not have any dedicated application, submissions are automatically determined through FAFSA or ORSAA. Make sure you have listed one eligible Oregon College and reapply to keep on receiving funds. To get immediate support call on (541) 687-7400 or email them at [email protected].
HECC Adult Basic Skills (ABS) / GED Vouchers
The Adult Basic Skills (ABS) program, funded by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC), provides free or low-cost educational services to eligible adults in Oregon, including individuals with felony records. The primary objective of the program is to build strong foundational skills in reading, writing, math, English language learning (ESL), and GED preparation.
The program also offers GED test vouchers ranging from $120 to $160, which can be used to cover the full or partial cost of GED exam fees. This makes it a valuable resource for felons in Oregon, helping them access college education or job training opportunities.
Eligibility For HECC Adult Basic Skills (ABS) / GED Vouchers
To be eligible for HECC Adult Basic Skills (ABS) / GED Vouchers, individual must be 18 years or older, be an Oregon resident, and not have a high school diploma, willing to enroll in an Adult Basic Skills or GED preparation program, meet basic placement or skill assessment requirements and stay committed to attend classes or training sessions regularly.
How To Apply For HECC Adult Basic Skills (ABS) / GED Vouchers?
To apply, individuals need to find a local Adult Basic Skills provider or community college offering GED or other adult education services. To find the list of programs visit the HECC ABS page. Once enrolled for a GED or basic skills class, eligible students may receive GED test vouchers. It is advised to connect your local program advisor for guidance through assessment, class enrollment, and voucher eligibility. To get direct assistance call on (503) 947-5713 or email them at [email protected].
Osher and Crankstart Re-Entry Scholarships
The Osher and Crankstart Re-Entry Scholarships are offered by University of Oregon and funded by the Bernard Osher Foundation and the Crankstart Foundation. These scholarships are primarily designed for the nontraditional students who are returning to college after a long gap.
These scholarships amount is around $5,000 per year, thus can be a valuable source for those students who are facing financial, personal or legal barriers in pursuing their first bachelor’s degree. Felons in Oregon can apply for these scholarships, if they meet the standard eligibility requirements.
Eligibility For Osher and Crankstart Re-Entry Scholarships
To be eligible for Osher and Crankstart Re-Entry Scholarships, individuals must be a nontraditional student, having a gap of 5 or more years in education, pursuing a first bachelor’s degree, have completed at least some college credits, need to demonstrate financial need and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
How To Apply For Osher and Crankstart Re-Entry Scholarships?
To apply, students are required to get admission to the University of Oregon. Once admitted, you can access the UO Scholarship Dashboard where you will be able to complete both the general scholarship application and the Osher/Crankstart Re-Entry application. Applicants must submit a FAFSA or ORSAA, provide a reference letter and meet program deadlines. For general queries call on (541) 346-3216 or email them at [email protected].
The OSAC Scholarships
The OSAC Scholarships are administered by the Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC) offering a single application system where students can apply for 600+ scholarships in a minute all across Oregon. These scholarships are flexible and offer support to the students by covering tuition, fees, and education-related expenses.
The scholarship amount ranges from $1,000 to $10,000+ per year, depending on the type of scholarship you have applied for. Many OSAC scholarships are open for returning citizens, so it is advised to explore all the scholarships and choose the one that fits you.
Eligibility For The OSAC Scholarships
To be eligible for the OSAC Scholarships, individuals must be Oregon residents, must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, enrolled or planning to enroll in an eligible college or university and meet specific scholarship criteria like GPA, background, field of student and career goal.
How To Apply For The OSAC Scholarships?
To apply, visit the official OSAC Scholarship portal and explore the available scholarships. You can apply for multiple scholarships with one submission, thus saving a lot of time. Applicants need to create an OSAC Student Portal account, fill out all the necessary details and submit for FAFSA or ORSAA. For general queries call on (541) 687-7400 or email them at [email protected].
Oregon Tribal Student Grant
The Oregon Tribal Student Grant (OTSG) is a state-funded program administered by the Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC) supporting Native American students that belong to federally recognized tribes in Oregon. This grant covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, books, and other educational expenses. This grant can be highly beneficial for the felons that belong to eligible tribal communities to pursue college education.
Eligibility For Oregon Tribal Student Grant
To be eligible for Oregon Tribal Student Grant, an individual must be enrolled in one of the 9 federally recognized Oregon tribes, enrolled or accepted at an eligible Oregon college or university, pursuing a first associate, bachelor’s, or eligible graduate degree, maintain satisfactory academic progress and have not exceeded the maximum timeframe (5 years).
How To Apply For Oregon Tribal Student Grant?
Participants can apply for the Oregon Tribal Student Grant application using the OSAC Student Portal and by submitting the FAFSA or ORSAA. Once applied, applicants need to stay in contact with their college financial aid office and keep tracking the progress of the application. If approved, the grant will be directly applied towards tuition and other educational costs. To get direct assistance call on (541) 687-7400 or email them at [email protected].
Housing Assistance Programs for Felons in Oregon
Housing assistance programs for formerly incarcerated individuals in Oregon offer housing support, rental assistance, and connections with housing providers to remove the barriers to housing.
The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is the primary state agency that offers housing support, rental assistance, and other homeless prevention services for the low income residents in Oregon. These programs are delivered through local partners like Community Action Agencies, nonprofits, and housing authorities. The OHCS programs are highly valuable for felons as they focus on housing stability rather than criminal background.
Eligibility For The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
To be eligible for The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), participants must be a low-income individual, must be an Oregon resident, facing housing instability, eviction risk, or homelessness, must meet the income limits set by the local housing provider or agencies and must apply through a local partner agency or housing provider.
How To Apply For The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)?
OHCS is not open for direct applications, therefore the applicants need to connect with local service providers to find housing assistance programs nearby. Applicants need to explain their housing situation and work with a caseworker to get access to rental assistance, emergency shelter or other housing programs. To learn more visit the official website of the State of Oregon. For general queries call on 800-453-5511 or email them at [email protected].
Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP)
The Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP) is administered by the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), it is a specific housing program that is offered to help out the individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. They do not offer direct grants to individuals but the funds are offered to local agencies and non-profit to deliver housing support services. Felons can apply for this program, if they meet the standard eligibility requirements.
Eligibility For Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP)
To be eligible for Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP), individuals must be homeless or at risk of homelessness, must be a low-income individual residing in Oregon, willing to participate in case management or housing stabilization services and must apply through a local partner agency or nonprofit.
How To Apply For Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP)?
To apply for Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP, individuals need to contact a local housing provider that receives OHCS funding. There is no direct application, learn more about the program by visiting the official website of the State of Oregon. For any further queries call on 800-453-5511 or email them at [email protected].
Future Ready Oregon (Wraparound Housing Funds)
The Future Ready Oregon initiative is administered by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) offering a $200 million statewide workforce development program to help out the struggling individuals to overcome barriers to housing, education and employment. One of their key features is wraparound support services where they offer housing assistance, rental support, transportation, childcare, and other essential needs to the eligible participants.
Eligibility For Future Ready Oregon
To be eligible for Future Ready Oregon, individuals must be an Oregon resident, have low-income or facing employment barriers, enrolled in or applying for a Future Ready Oregon-funded training or workforce program, must demonstrate a need for support services such as housing, childcare, or transportation and work with a case manager.
How To Apply For Future Ready Oregon?
To get access to the Future Ready Oregon wraparound housing funds, individuals need to work with a local workforce program or training provider and enroll in a training program under the Future Ready Oregon. Remember, direct applications are not accepted. Learn more by visiting the official website of the State of Oregon. You can also explore the list of available programs by visiting Worksystems. To get direct assistance call on (503) 947-5711 or email them at [email protected].
Sponsors Inc. Reentry Housing Program
The Sponsors, Inc. Reentry Housing Program is a non-profit initiative based in Eugene, Oregon, offers transitional housing and wraparound support services to the eligible individuals returning from incarceration. This program does not offer a direct cash grant, instead offers free or subsidized transitional housing (typically 60–120 days), case management, job assistance and life skills training. It is a valuable program specifically designed for felons in Oregon helping them to rebuild their lives after release.
Eligibility For Sponsors Inc. Reentry Housing Program
To be eligible for Sponsors Inc. Reentry Housing Program, individuals who are recently released or preparing for release from incarceration, must be returning to Lane County or nearby areas in Oregon, must be homeless or at risk of homelessness after release, willing to participate in case management and structured support programs and must comply with the program rules.
How To Apply For Sponsors Inc. Reentry Housing Program?
To apply, visit the official website of Sponsors Inc. and complete the housing or reentry program application. Participants need to submit an application before release and must work with case manager, parole officers, or reentry coordinators to get help with referral. Once approved, participants will be placed into transitional housing and an assigned case manager will guide the overall procedure. For further queries call on (541) 485-8341 or email them at [email protected]
Transition Network Housing (via Oregon DOC)
The Transition Network Housing through Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) offers a network of transitional housing placements and reentry support services through community partners. They do not offer a single grant, rather run a structured reentry housing system connecting the recently released felons with approved housing, transitional programs, and community-based support. Most of the program offers Short-Term Transitional Leave (STTL), allowing eligible individuals to stay for up to 120 days.
Eligibility For Transition Network Housing
To be eligible for Transition Network Housing, individual must be incarcerated in Oregon and nearing release, approved for community transition or supervised release programs, have a verified housing need or risk of homelessness, eligible for programs like Short-Term Transitional Leave (STTL), maintain good behavior and program compliance while incarcerated, and work with a case manager to develop a housing plan.
How To Apply For Transition Network Housing?
There is no direct application for Transition Network Housing, therefore individuals need to work through the Oregon DOC release planning process. Before release, individuals need to work with a release counselor or case manager to create a housing plan. Once the plan gets approved by DOC, the individual will get referred to transitional housing providers, nonprofits, or community programs. To learn more visit the official website of the State of Oregon or call (503) 945-9090 to get direct assistance.
Job Training Programs for Felons in Oregon
There are job training programs and employment support for felons in Oregon that offer skill building, paid training, and help finding employment opportunities.
WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program
The WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program is a statewide workforce initiative specifically designed to help returning citizens in Oregon find employment. The program works in collaboration with workforce boards, the Oregon Employment Department, and correctional facilities. Its primary focus is to provide continuous support—offering job training before release and connecting individuals with employment opportunities after release.
Eligibility For WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program
To be eligible for the WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program, individuals must be incarcerated in Oregon and nearing release, willing to participate in employment training and job readiness programs, planning to return to an Oregon community after release, stay committed to job search and career development and must work with a case manager.
How To Apply For WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program?
There is no direct public application, individuals need to enroll through the correctional facility or a local WorkSource Oregon center. If individuals are currently incarcerated they need to talk to their prison program staff and ask them to connect with WorkSource services before release. To access services online visit the official website of WorkSource Oregon. To get direct assistance about their services call on (877) 872-5627.
The BOLI Apprenticeship Support Grants
The BOLI Apprenticeship Support Grants administered by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) run a wide range of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs offering financial support to individuals with felony records. The grants are awarded to training providers, employers, and apprenticeship programs; they further offer direct support to the eligible participants with paid training, tuition assistance, and wraparound services.
Eligibility For The BOLI Apprenticeship Support Grants
To be eligible for The BOLI Apprenticeship Support Grants, individual must be at least 18 years old (some programs might allow 16+), must be eligible to work in the United States, enrolled in a registered apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship program, meet basic education or skill requirements, physically able to perform job-related tasks and work with an approved training provider.
How To Apply For The BOLI Apprenticeship Support Grants?
There is no direct application for the grant, individuals need to search for the available apprenticeship programs and apply for it through a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) and complete the selection process. If approved, participants will receive financial assistance and other support through BOLI grants. To learn more about apprenticeship programs visit the official website of the State of Oregon. For general queries call on 971-245-3844 or email them at [email protected].
HECC ETPL Training Grants
The Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) is managed by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC), it is not a direct grant program but offers a gateway to find job training opportunities under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in Oregon. The eligible individuals with felony records can apply for the list of programs listed on the ETPL system. There are a wide range of programs that offer help with certifications, apprenticeships, vocational training, and college-level courses.
Eligibility For HECC ETPL Training Grants
To be eligible for HECC ETPL Training Grants, individuals must be an Oregon resident, currently unemployed, underemployed, or have low-income, have selected a training program listed on the ETPL system, demonstrate need for job training and must work with an advisor or case manager.
How To Apply For HECC ETPL Training Grants?
To get access to the HECC ETPL Training Grants, individuals need to visit a WorkSource Oregon center as there is no direct application procedure. Work with a career advisor to assess your eligibility for WIOA funding and select an appropriate training program from the ETPL system. Once approved, the individual will get funding to cover tuition, training fees, and related support services. For further guidance call on (877) 872-5627 or email them at [email protected].
Federal Programs Available For Felons in Oregon
There are federal programs for returning citizens in Oregon like Federal Pell Grant, TANF, SNAP, Federal bonds etc, offering help with education, cash, food, employment, health and other basic requirements.
The Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell)
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based financial aid program in Oregon. The best thing is that individuals with felony convictions can apply for the Federal Pell Grant through the Second Chance Pell initiative. Applicants must submit a FAFSA application to determine eligibility. The Pell Grant can be used to cover essential educational expenses, primarily tuition, fees, room and board, textbooks, and supplies. To apply for a Pell Grant visit StudentAid.gov.
TANF Cash Assistance in Oregon
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), commonly known as Temporary Assistance (TA) in Oregon, offers financial assistance for felons. This program is administered by Oregon Department of Human Services offering help with employment support, and access to job training programs after release. However, the returning citizens in Oregon need to meet the basic program eligibility rules to qualify.
A family of three can receive approximately $506–$562 per month in Oregon through TANF Cash Assistance, depending on income and household circumstances. You can apply for TANF (TA) benefits online through the ONE Eligibility System or by visiting a local ODHS office. For further assistance, you can contact the customer service line at 1-800-699-9075.
Food assistance in Oregon (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food assistance in Oregon, helps low income individuals and families to buy groceries using an EBT card. Felons in Oregon 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 up to $291 per month for one person. To apply for SNAP benefits online through the ONE Eligibility System or simply visit your local ODHS office. For general queries related to SNAP call the customer service at 1-800-699-9075.
The Federal Bonding Program
The Federal Bonding Program in Oregon is a U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored hiring incentive that offers help to the felons by removing the barriers to employment. The bond protects employers against employee dishonesty for the first six months of employment. The Federal Bond that is offered is $5,000. Thus, encouraging employers to hire individuals with felony records in Oregon. You can apply for the Federal Bonding Program in Oregon through the local WorkSource Oregon center after receiving a job offer. For general queries call on 1-888-469-7365.
The Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
The Oregon Health Plan (OHP), Oregon’s Medicaid program in Oregon offers a free or low-cost health coverage to the eligible low income individuals that includes felons after incarceration. This program is administered by Oregon Health Authority, providing health insurance services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
Felons who are currently incarcerated cannot avail the full Medicaid benefits, but upon release they can start receiving the Medicaid benefits. You can apply for Medicaid through the ONE Eligibility System or simply visit your local OHP office. For general queries call the OHP customer service at 1-800-699-9075.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program in Oregon is administered by the Social Security Administration offering monthly assistance to the low income individuals who are aged, blind or disabled, including eligible felons who are currently released. The primary focus of the program is to cover basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.
Felons need to meet the standard eligibility requirements, however benefits remain paused during incarceration and can be activated once released. The eligible individual can receive up to approximately $943 per month, you can apply by visiting the SSA website or simply call them at 1-800-772-1213.
Bottom Line
Getting access to education, stable housing, and employment in Oregon significantly reduces recidivism rates. These programs provide essential financial assistance for felons in Oregon and help them successfully reintegrate into society. To maximize your chances, apply early, submit accurate FAFSA or ORSAA details, and stay connected with local case managers. By taking the right steps and using these resources effectively will help the returning citizens to achieve a successful future.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What grants are available for felons in Oregon?
Felons in Oregon can get access to education grants, housing assistance, job training programs, and other federal benefits including Pell Grants, SNAP, and TANF. These programs help the returning citizens to cover tuition, rent, food, and employment support.
Can felons apply for multiple grants in Oregon at the same time?
Yes, it is possible to apply for multiple grants in Oregon at the same time. You can apply for educational, housing or job training grants all together, combining these programs can help improve your chances of a successful reentry.
Are there grants for felons in Oregon without a GED or high school diploma?
Yes, there are programs like HECC Adult Basic Skills (ABS) / GED Vouchers that help individuals to earn a GED and make them eligible for other college grants. It is recommended to get your GED as it helps you to open other funding choices.
How long after release can felons apply for grants in Oregon?
For programs like WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program and Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell), you can apply immediately after release. However, some programs offer benefits before release through pre-release services.
Do felony types affect eligibility for grants in Oregon?
Most of the programs do not automatically disqualify applicants based on felony type, the eligibility mainly depends on income, residency, and program-specific guidelines.
Can felons get financial aid for trade schools in Oregon?
Yes, there are programs like BOLI Apprenticeship Support Grants and HECC ETPL Training Grants that offer help to the felons to get enrolled in trade schools, apprenticeships, and vocational training programs.
Are there housing grants specifically for newly released felons in Oregon?
Yes, there are housing grants for newly released felons in Oregon through Oregon Housing Stability Program (OHSP) and Sponsors Inc. Reentry Housing Program. These programs offer help with transitional housing along with rental assistance.
What documents are required to apply for grants for felons in Oregon?
Most of the programs required some basic documents including ID proof, income details, FAFSA/ORSAA submission (for educational programs), and sometimes release or parole documentation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee approval for any grant or assistance program. Eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes may change over time. Applicants are advised to verify details through official state or program websites before applying. We do not represent any government agency. Financial assistance availability depends on individual circumstances, funding availability, and program guidelines.
