Are There Real Reentry Grants For Felons in Pennsylvania? Yes, there are several grants for felons in Pennsylvania that offer access to education, housing, and employment opportunities. Popular programs include a Pennsylvania State Grant (PHEAA), Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP), and the Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell) helping returning citizens pursue college education and career training.
This guide offers comprehensive information on the available Reentry grants for felons in Pennsylvania, their eligibility requirements and how to apply. Identify the right opportunities today and successfully reintegrate into the community.
Education Grants For Felons in Pennsylvania
There are several education assistance programs for incarcerated or formerly incarcerated individuals in Pennsylvania to get access to college education, certificate programs, and skill-building.
Pennsylvania State Grant (PHEAA)
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) runs the Pennsylvania State Grant, a need-based financial aid program to offer assistance to eligible Pennsylvania residents to pursue college education. This grant offers up to $5,260 per year and is considered “gift aid,” meaning it does not need to be repaid. It is one of the valuable resources for reentry education. Felons can qualify for this grant as long as they meet standard eligibility requirements.
Eligibility For Pennsylvania State Grant (PHEAA)
To be eligible for Pennsylvania State Grant (PHEAA), individuals must be Pennsylvania residents for at least 12 months (before applying), must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, have a high school diploma or GED, demonstrate financial need, not be in default on student loans, enrolled in an approved college, university, or career program, must be an undergraduate student and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
How To Apply For Pennsylvania State Grant (PHEAA)?
To apply for the Pennsylvania State Grant, you need to start by completing your FAFSA application to determine your eligibility. Once submitted, your information will be automatically sent to PHEAA for review. Next, create an account on the GrantUs portal and fill out the Pennsylvania State Grant Form and upload documents that are required. Once submitted, track your application status and get updates through your GrantUs account. To get immediate assistance call 1-800-692-7392.
Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS)
The Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS) administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA), is a state-funded, merit-based financial aid program that offers support to the low-to middle-income students who are academically successful.
Felons can apply for this scholarship, if they are already enrolled in college and meet standard eligibility requirements. This scholarship works as a supplement to the Pennsylvania State Grant, offering $500 to $2,500 per year for full time students and up to $1,250 for part-time students. This fund can be used to cover the remaining education costs on tuition, books, and fees.
Eligibility For Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS)
To be eligible for Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS), must be eligible for the PA State Grant Program, be a Pennsylvania resident, have completed at least 1 academic year, maintain a minimum GPA of around 2.5–3.25, having family income below $175,000–$200,000, have enrolled at least half-time in an approved program and must be an undergraduate student.
How To Apply For Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS)?
There is no separate application for the Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS). First complete your FAFSA application and the Pennsylvania State Grant Form before the deadline, your information will be automatically reviewed by the PHEAA. If you are eligible, your college or university will nominate you for the scholarship. To learn more about the scholarship visit the Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship (RTSS) page. For further queries call at 800-443-0646 or email them at [email protected].
Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP)
The Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP) is a state-funded, need-based grant program, administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). This program is offered to help the students to gain skills through training in high-demand industries such as healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and agriculture.
PA-TIP’s primary focus is to offer short-term career training programs, offering up to $6,000 per year and may cover tuition, books, supplies, and specific living expenses. Felons can apply for this program, if they meet the standard eligibility requirements.
Eligibility For Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP)
To be eligible for Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP), you must be a Pennsylvania resident, have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA, enrolled in an approved training program, study at least half-time, attend a PHEAA-approved school or training provider and must not be in default on student loans or owe grant refunds.
How To Apply For Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP)?
To apply for the Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA-TIP), individuals need to complete the FAFSA application and determine financial eligibility. Next, fill out the PA-TIP application form through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and submit it before the deadline. To access the application visit the PA-TIP program page. For general queries contact at 800-692-7392 or email [email protected].
PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd)
The PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd) is a state-funded tuition waiver designed to help out the current or former foster youth to pursue higher education at an affordable price at most of the Pennsylvania colleges.
This program is administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) in collaboration with Pennsylvania’s Departments of Education, Human Services, and Labor & Industry. Formerly incarcerated individuals can qualify for this program, if they meet eligibility requirements just like others.
Eligibility For PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd)
To be eligible for PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd), individual must be a Pennsylvania resident, under the age of 26 when applying, have a high school diploma or GED, currently in foster care OR exited foster care at age 16+, eligible for the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program, enrolled at least half-time in an approved college, demonstrates financial need, must not default on federal student loans, and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
How To Apply For PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd)?
To apply for the PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd), you need to complete your FAFSA application and submit all the necessary documents on Pennsylvania State Grant. Next, you need to apply for the Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG), as FosterED is tied to this program. You can send your documents to PHEAA, P.O. Box 8157, Harrisburg, PA 17105, fax them to 717-720-3786, or contact support at 1-800-692-7392 or [email protected].
Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG)
The Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG) is a federally funded, state-administered program that offers assistance to current and former foster youth to pay for college or other career training. Felons can apply for this grant, if they meet foster care requirements. The grant offers up to $5,000 per year, and can be used to cover tuition, housing, books, transportation, and childcare, unlike FosterEd covering only college costs.
Eligibility For Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG)
To be eligible for Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG), individuals must be Pennsylvania residents, have been in foster care at age 16 or older, must be under age 26 at the start of the academic year, enrolled in an eligible college, university, or career training program, pursuing a degree, certificate, or vocational credential, demonstrate financial need, must not be in default on student loans and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
How To Apply For Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG)?
To apply for the Chafee Education and Training Grant (ETG), individuals need to complete the FAFSA application to determine eligibility. Submit the Chafee ETG application by visiting the official website of PHEAA. Applicants need to submit documentation to verify your foster care status and get enrolled in the program. PHEAA will further review your eligibility and notify you about your award. For general queries call on 1-800-692-7392 or email [email protected].
Mahin Bina Memorial Scholarship
The Mahin Bina Memorial Scholarship is a reentry-focused education grant, managed by The End Violence Project to support the formerly incarcerated individuals to pursue education. This scholarship is open nation-wide, thus felons in Pennsylvania can get financial support to pursue college degrees, certifications, or vocational training. This scholarship offers a one-time award of $500 that can be used to cover necessary educational expenses.
Eligibility For Mahin Bina Memorial Scholarship
To be eligible for Mahin Bina Memorial Scholarship, an individual must be incarcerated for at least 1 year in a U.S. state or federal prison, is a returning citizen, enrolled in a certificate, vocational, or degree program, show commitment to personal growth, and submit a personal essay explaining your goals (around 500 words).
How To Apply For Mahin Bina Memorial Scholarship?
To apply for the Mahin Bina Memorial Scholarship, visit the official website of The End Violence Project and fill up the scholarship application form online. Applications are done on a rolling basis, therefore you can apply at any time. After submission, the board will review your applications and select the recipient. For further queries about the scholarship use the contact form.
Housing Grants For Felons in Pennsylvania
Housing assistance for returning citizens in Pennsylvania offers help with transitional housing, rental assistance, case management and other supportive services.
Homeless Assistance Program (HAP)
The Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) is a state-funded housing support program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). This program offers help to individuals and families who are facing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless.
HAP offers a wide range of supportive services that includes rental assistance, emergency shelter, bridge housing, case management, and housing stabilization support. It can be a valuable resource for felons in Pennsylvania to reintegrate back into the community.
Eligibility For Homeless Assistance Program (HAP)
To be eligible for the Homeless Assistance Program (HAP), individuals must be a Pennsylvania resident, must be homeless or at risk of homelessness, have low income (below 200% of the federal poverty level), demonstrate need for housing assistance and do not have sufficient resources to resolve the housing crisis.
How To Apply For Homeless Assistance Program (HAP)?
To apply for the Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) in Pennsylvania, locate your local county HAP as this program is administered at the county level and they do not have a single statewide application. You can simply visit the official website of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and find your county’s HAP provider and start the application.
PHFA Housing Management
PHFA Housing Management runs affordable rental housing programs and property management services to low- and moderate-income individuals. It is administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), their main focus is to provide safe, affordable rental housing. PHFA does not have a “felon-specific” program, but returning citizens can qualify for their programs if they meet the basic criteria.
Eligibility For PHFA Housing Management
To be eligible for PHFA Housing Management, individuals must be a Pennsylvania resident, have low to moderate income depending on the property, have the ability to pay rent, pass tenant screening and meet specific-property requirements.
How To Access PHFA Housing Management?
To access housing programs, visit the official website of PHFA Housing Management and use their “PA Housing Search” tool to find the available rental properties in your area. Once you have identified a suitable property, directly visit the property manager and start your application procedure. To get direct help with the application call PHFA at 1-855-827-3466.
(ReACH) Program – Pennsylvania DOC
The Reentrants Attaining Community Housing (ReACH) Program is a reentry housing initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC). This program is specially designed to assist the formerly incarcerated individuals who are struggling with low-income or disabilities by providing them access to secure stable, long-term housing after release. Additionally, they offer intensive case management, financial support, and rapid connection to permanent housing.
Eligibility For (ReACH) Program – Pennsylvania DOC
To be eligible for (ReACH) Program – Pennsylvania DOC, individual must be 18 years or older and a formerly incarcerated individual under Pennsylvania DOC supervision, have a documented disability preventing full-time work OR be unable to earn income above poverty level OR be age 55+ with limited or fixed income, and in need of housing assistance.
How To Apply For (ReACH) Program – Pennsylvania DOC?
Participants cannot apply for the (ReACH) Program directly, it is recommended to connect with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC), a parole officer, or an approved reentry service provider for referral. The DOC will further assess your eligibility and connect you to a provider if eligible. To get more information visit the official website of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
(FRP) Housing Assistance Program
The Friends Rehabilitation Program (FRP) Housing Assistance Program is a non-profit reentry housing unit that is administered by the Friends Rehabilitation Program. This non-profit mainly operates in the Philadelphia region offering help to the justice-involved individuals with secure, safe, affordable housing. Furthermore, FRP offers job training, counseling, mentoring, a one-time stipend (up to $2,100), and family support to the felons to easily reintegrate back into the community.
Eligibility For (FRP) Housing Assistance Program
To be eligible for (FRP) Housing Assistance Program, individuals must be formerly incarcerated, currently on probation or parole, obtained a referral from a parole/probation officer or reentry partner, meet income limit, select housing within affordable rent limits (30-45% of the income) and willing to participate in case management and support services.
How To Apply For (FRP) Housing Assistance Program?
To apply for FRP, you need to connect with your probation or parole officer, reentry case manager, or partner organization to get a referral. Once referred, FRP will determine your eligibility for the (FRP) Housing Assistance Program. If eligible, you will receive the program benefits. To get assistance, speak with your parole officer or contact FRP directly by calling (215) 825-8800, or email them at [email protected].
(PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program
The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program is a reentry-focused housing initiative administered by the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA). This program offers rental vouchers to the formerly incarcerated individuals to get access to stable housing.
This program works in collaboration with the Supervision to Aid Reentry (STAR) Program, offering assistance to those felons who are on supervised release. Eligible participants can get housing vouchers for up to 2 years, where they can rent apartments by paying only a portion of the rent and the rest is covered by the PHA.
Eligibility For (PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program
To be eligible for (PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program, individuals must be formerly incarcerated individuals, enrolled in or referred through the STAR reentry program, must be under federal probation or supervised release, demonstrate need for housing assistance after release and remain in good standing with the STAR program.
How To Apply For (PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program?
To apply for the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program, individuals need to get referred through the Supervision to Aid Reentry (STAR) Program. If you are eligible, your probation officer or reentry case manager will guide you with the program and refer you to the (PHA) Second Chance Voucher Program. To learn more visit the official website of PHA or contact them at (215) 684-4000.
COMPASS (Health & Human Services)
COMPASS (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services) is an online benefits portal administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). The residents of Pennsylvania can apply for multiple programs using the portal. Through COMPASS, users can also apply for federal programs like SNAP (food assistance), Medicaid, TANF (cash assistance), LIHEAP (energy aid), and other support services. Remember, COMPASS is not a direct grant, it serves as a central gateway offering a wide range of support.
Job Training Grants For Felons in Pennsylvania
There are job training grants and employment opportunities for returning citizens in Pennsylvania to reenter the workforce through skill development, career counselling and getting connected to employer networks.
Pennsylvania CareerLink
Pennsylvania CareerLink® is a statewide workforce development system administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry offering help with employment, training, and reentry services. It is a one-stop career center that offers services to all 67 counties, connecting individuals with job opportunities, career counseling, and employer networks. Pennsylvania CareerLink can be a vital resource for the felons to successfully reintegrate back into the community. To get help visit the official website of Pennsylvania CareerLink or call them directly on 1-833-750-5627.
The Pushing Progress Philly (P3)
The Pushing Progress Philly (P3) program is a city-supported reentry and violence intervention initiative administered by the Office of Public Safety Philadelphia in collaboration with community organizations like Nicetown CDC. The primary focus of the program is to offer support to the felons in Philadelphia with job training, paid employment, and behavioral support services. P3 offers a 2–18 month intensive program to benefit the participants by reducing the risk of crime and violence through various programs.
Eligibility For The Pushing Progress Philly (P3)
To be eligible for The Pushing Progress Philly (P3), individuals must be a justice-involved individual, must be aged 18–25 years old, be considered high-risk for violence or reoffending, is a resident of Philadelphia or surrounding areas, willing to participate in daily training, coaching, and work activities and must commit to full program duration.
How To Apply For The Pushing Progress Philly (P3)?
To apply for the Pushing Progress Philly (P3) program, individuals need to get referred through a partner organization, community outreach team, or the City of Philadelphia’s reentry services. After referral, a program staff will assist you with the application procedure. To learn about the program visit the official website of Nicetown CDC. For general queries call (215) 764-3971 or email them at [email protected].
SkillUp™ PA (Metrix Learning)
The SkillUp™ PA is a free online job training program that is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry in collaboration with Metrix Learning. The program offers 6,000–7,000+ online courses along with career pathways in high-demand industries like IT, healthcare, business, and skilled trades. Furthermore, participants can also prepare for certifications such as CompTIA, project management, and Microsoft Office that help them to get employment very quickly.
The Pennsylvania residents, including felons can highly benefit as it helps eliminate reentry barriers. To apply for SkillUp™ PA, individuals need to create an account on the PA CareerLink® website and look for the “Access SkillUp PA™” option that will direct them to the Metrix Learning portal.
Legal Help or Assistance For Felons in Pennsylvania
Legal help for felons in Pennsylvania are available through PLAN and LASP, offering help with free civil legal services, expungements, pardons and understanding the state law.
Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN)
The Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN) is a statewide system that helps individuals to get connected to free civil legal services. Felons can get help with issues like housing, employment barriers, and other reentry challenges after release. To apply visit PLAN’s legal aid directory or contact your local legal aid office to get referrals.
Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania (LASP)
Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania (LASP) offers help with free civil legal assistance to the felons that includes help with record clearing, housing, and other public benefits. Furthermore, LASP also offers help with expungements, pardons, and understanding Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate law. To learn more about the program visit the official website of LASP. To get direct assistance call 877-429-5994.
Federal Programs For Felons in Pennsylvania
Federal programs like the Federal Pell Grant, TANF, SNAP, the Federal Bonding Program, and Medical Assistance offer support with education, finances, food, employment, and healthcare.
The Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell)
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based financial aid program in Pennsylvania. 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.
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), commonly referred to as Cash Assistance in Pennsylvania, offers financial help to the individuals. This program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, offering help with employment support, and access to job training programs after release. However, the returning citizens in Pennsylvania need to meet the basic program eligibility rules to qualify.
A family of three can receive approximately $403–$421 per month in Pennsylvania through TANF, depending on income and household circumstances. You can apply for cash assistance through the COMPASS portal or by visiting a local County Assistance Office. For further queries, you can call the DHS helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
SNAP for Felons in Pennsylvania
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) also known as Food Stamps in Pennsylvania, helps low income individuals and families to buy groceries using an EBT card. Felons in Pennsylvania 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. You can apply for SNAP in Pennsylvania through the COMPASS portal or by visiting a local County Assistance Office. For further assistance, you can call the SNAP hotline at 1-800-692-7462.
The Federal Bonding Program
The Federal Bonding Program in Pennsylvania 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 the employers to recruit felons in Pennsylvania without hesitation. You can apply for the Federal Bonding Program through your local American Job Center after receiving a job offer. For more information, call 1-888-469-7365.
Medical Assistance (MA) in Pennsylvania
Medicaid, also known as Medical Assistance (MA) in Pennsylvania offers a free or low-cost health coverage to the eligible low income individuals that includes felons after incarceration. Medicaid provides health insurance after incarceration in Pennsylvania, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
Felons who are currently incarcerated cannot avail the Medicaid services, but upon release they can start receiving the Medicaid benefits. You can apply for Medicaid through the COMPASS portal or by visiting a local social services office. For assistance or questions, you can call the Medicaid helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Is There Emergency Help Available For Felons in Pennsylvania?
Yes, emergency help is available for felons in Pennsylvania through United Way 211. Individuals can simply dial 211 and get access to emergency needs like food, shelter, utility assistance, and crisis services. It is a free, confidential, 24/7 helpline that connects individuals with nearby local resources. Visit the United Way Pennsylvania and search for the available help near you.
Note: This guide is based on official Pennsylvania government resources and verified reentry programs.
Bottom Line
Grants for felons in Pennsylvania play a valuable role in rebuilding life through education, housing, and job training opportunities. Popular programs include PHEAA grants, Homeless Assistance Program (HAP), Pennsylvania CareerLink® and other federal grants help felons to build a strong foundation towards financial independence. Applying is quite simple, for education grants start with FAFSA, use government portals like COMPASS for federal grants or directly connect with the agencies. Take your first step today and unlock the valuable resources that will help you to build a stable and successful life after release.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Can felons apply for multiple grants at the same time in Pennsylvania?
Yes, felons can apply for multiple grants in Pennsylvania at the same time. It is best to combine education, job training and housing grants together to create a strong foundation.
How long does it take to get approved for grants in Pennsylvania?
Approval time depends on the type of program you are applying for. For FAFSA-based grants, it generally takes around 2 to 6 weeks. Whereas for housing and other reentry programs it might take a few days to several weeks.
What documents do felons need to apply for grants?
Some of the common documents that are required to apply for the grants include Government-issued ID, social security number, proof of income, FAFSA application (for education grants), proof of residence and release papers. Keep these documents ready to speed up your approval process.
Can felons receive grants immediately after release?
Yes, many programs offer grants to felons immediately after release. It is advised to visit portals like Pennsylvania CareerLink and COMPASS to explore available benefits.
Are there grants specifically for violent offenders in Pennsylvania?
Most programs do not automatically exclude violent offenders, but eligibility depends on the specific program requirements. Some programs may have strict screening criteria, while others allow access if individuals meet the standard eligibility requirements.
Can grants cover living expenses like rent and food?
Yes, there are specific grants and programs like SNAP, TANF and HAP that cover living expenses like rent and food. Remember, eligibility depends on income, household size, and current financial situation.
What is the easiest grant to apply for as a felon in Pennsylvania?
You can easily apply for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF in Pennsylvania by using the COMPASS portal. They are designed to provide quick support for food, healthcare, and financial assistance and can be an ideal starting point for the felons.
Do felons need good credit to qualify for grants?
No, most of the grants do not require a credit check. Eligibility is mainly based on financial need, residency, and program-specific requirements
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Program availability, eligibility requirements, and benefits may change over time. Always verify details with official government or program websites before applying. We do not guarantee approval for any grant or assistance program. Individual circumstances may affect eligibility. For personalized guidance, consider consulting a qualified professional or contacting the relevant agency directly.
