Are There Grants for Felons in South Carolina? Yes, felons in South Carolina may qualify for grants and assistance programs for housing, education, food, healthcare, and job training. Some of the popular programs include SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS), Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP), SC Housing, readySC, and the South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program.
Federal Programs like SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, and Pell Grants are also available to pursue education. Use this guide to reduce your financial stress and get support to make successful reentry after incarceration. Learn how these programs work, eligibility rules and how to apply for free Reentry grants for felons in South Carolina.
Best Education Grants for Felons in South Carolina
Education assistance programs for formerly incarcerated residents are available through Benedict College Prison Education Program, Pathways from Prison Program, and SCWins. These programs help individuals to pursue education by covering education-related expenses.
Benedict College Prison Education Program
The Benedict College Prison Education Program is a higher education initiative that is mainly designed to help incarcerated students in South Carolina to get access to college degree programs. The program operates inside Broad River and Kershaw correctional facilities helping them to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies or Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The eligible participants get funding through the Second Chance Pell Grant that covers eligible education costs.
Eligibility For Benedict College Prison Education Program
To be eligible for Benedict College Prison Education Program, individuals must be incarcerated in an approved South Carolina correctional facility, meet Benedict College admissions requirements, must possess a high school diploma or GED, need to demonstrate academic readiness and commitment to completing coursework, and must receive institutional and correctional approval for participation.
How To Apply For Benedict College Prison Education Program?
To apply for Benedict College Prison Education Program, interested applicants begin the application process through recruitment meetings or application sessions that are held inside participating correctional facilities. The Benedict College staff collaborates with prison administration to identify the eligibility of the applicants. Once approved, the eligible students can start their courses and receive the academic materials for studying. To get direct assistance call on (803) 705-4779 or (803) 253-5000.
Claflin University: Pathways from Prison Program
The Claflin University Pathways from Prison Program is a prison education initiative that offers help to incarcerated individuals in South Carolina pursue education by earning college credentials and preparing for successful reentry after release. This program is operated by the Claflin University’s Center for Social Justice and Center for Professional and Continuing Studies, providing bachelor’s degree pathways to eligible felons in fields of Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Organizational Management.
The Second Chance Pell Grant funds the program allowing the eligible incarcerated students to receive federal Pell Grant assistance to cover educational costs. In addition, Claflin University received a $525,000 grant from Gilead Sciences that is used to support initiatives like the Pathways from Prison Program.
Eligibility For Claflin University: Pathways from Prison Program
To be eligible for Claflin University: Pathways from Prison Program, individuals must be incarcerated in a participating South Carolina correctional facility, meet South Carolina Department of Corrections program approval requirements, must have a high school diploma or GED, meet Claflin University admission standards, need at least a 2.0 GPA, and meet admission requirements.
How To Apply For Claflin University: Pathways from Prison Program?
Interested applicants can apply for the Pathways from Prison Program through their correctional facility. An education office or prison staff will determine your eligibility and if approved, you can enroll in available degree programs. You can directly contact Dr. Vanessa Harris on (803) 535-5370 or email her on [email protected]. For other general queries call the University on (803) 535-5000.
SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS)
The South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS) is a statewide scholarship program offered through the South Carolina Technical College System to the South Carolina residents to get trained in high-demand fields. This scholarship is available in the state’s 16 technical colleges where eligible individuals can get certifications in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, logistics, education, and skilled trades.
SCWINS is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers the remaining amount after applying other grants and scholarships . The eligible students can receive up to $5,000 per academic year for tuition, mandatory fees and other education-expenses.
Eligibility For SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS)
To be eligible for SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS), an individual must be a South Carolina resident, enrolled in an eligible program at a South Carolina technical college. Must meet any one of the specific conditions:
- Currently employed, or
- Completed a financial literacy course offered by the college, or
- Completed 100 hours of volunteer service with an approved nonprofit/public organization.
Applicants need to maintain a 2.0 GPA for renewal and meet additional college admission or financial aid requirements.
How To Apply For SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SCWINS)?
To apply for the SCWINS Scholarship, students need to apply for admission to one of South Carolina’s 16 technical colleges and enrol in an approved workforce-related program. Applicants must complete FAFSA to determine eligibility, once approved students need to complete a college-specific SCWINS affidavit or acceptance form. The applicant procedure might differ by college, it is recommended to follow the exact instruction that is provided by the chosen technical college. For general queries call on (803) 896-5361 or email them at [email protected].
Palmetto Unified School District (PUSD) & Reentry Services
The Palmetto Unified School District (PUSD) is a special statewide school district that works within the South Carolina Department of Corrections established in the year 1981 by the South Carolina General Assembly to provide education to the incarcerated individuals.
PUSD does not offer direct grants but help incarcerated students to get help with academic, vocational, and life-skills training to reenter society after serving a sentence. PUSD offers a range of programs including high school diploma preparation, GED classes, adult education, career and technical education (CTE), special education, WorkKeys/WorkReady SC certifications, and job-readiness training.
Eligibility For Palmetto Unified School District (PUSD) & Reentry Services
To be eligible for PUSD services, individuals must be incarcerated in a South Carolina Department of Corrections facility, meet placement or academic requirements for the specific program, must be approved by institution, and participation depends on behavior status, sentence structure, and facility availability.
How To Apply For Palmetto Unified School District (PUSD) & Reentry Services?
To apply for PUSD services, individuals need to contact their facility’s education department, case manager, counselor, or reentry coordinator to get a referral. The students need to complete academic testing to determine placement in the appropriate program. It is recommended for the application to directly talk to the facility staff for enrollment information. To get direct assistance about the PUSD services call on (803) 896-8500.
SC Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP)
The South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP) is a state-funded tuition assistance program offered to the eligible South Carolina residents who are attending two-year public or independent colleges, including technical colleges and certain USC regional campuses. LTAP helps in reducing tuition costs for students enrolled at least part-time in approved certificate, diploma, or degree programs. The eligible recipients receive up to $80 per credit hour toward tuition, however the amount might change depending on various factors.
Eligibility For SC Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP)
To be eligible for SC Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP), individuals must be a South Carolina resident, enrolled in at least 6 credit hours in an eligible program, currently attending an eligible two-year South Carolina institution, maintain satisfactory academic progress, do not owe payment on prior state/federal grants, must not be in default on eligible student loans and currently not receiving benefits from HOPE, LIFE, or Palmetto Fellows scholarships.
How To Apply For SC Lottery Tuition Assistance Program (LTAP)?
To apply for LTAP, students need to apply for admission in an eligible South Carolina two-year college or technical college. Need to complete FAFSA to determine eligibility, once approved LTAP funds will be directly applied to your tuition charges. However, it is advised to ask your college financial aid office if there are any specific rules for felons. For general queries call on (803) 737-2260 or contact Tanya Weigold – (803) 856-0672.
Best Housing Assistance Programs for Felons in South Carolina
Housing assistance programs for felons in South Carolina are available by getting access to SC Housing, Soteria CDC, Oxford Houses and Alston Wilkes Society. These programs help with rental assistance, transitional housing and other reentry support for the felons.
SC Housing
The South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority also known as SC Housing, is a state agency that offers housing assistance to the South Carolina residents through rental assistance, homebuyer financing, down payment help, and housing search tools. Felons may apply for SC housing, if they meet the standard requirements for the programs.
Some programs might offer the Housing Choice Voucher Program, affordable rental property directories, and first-time homebuyer mortgage assistance. It can be valuable resources for the felons with criminal records that are planning to reintegrate back into the community.
Eligibility For SC Housing
Most of the SC Housing Programs requires individuals to be a South Carolina resident for most programs, meet income limits for rental assistance or affordable housing programs, have ID, household, and income documentation, must pass through landlord or property screening, do not have certain serious offences and credit or income requirements are needed for homebuyer mortgage programs.
How To Apply For SC Housing Programs?
Applicants need to identify the type of housing assistance that is needed like rental assistance, affordable apartments, or homebuyer support. Simply visit the SC Housing website and search for the participating properties or check availability of programs. Most of the programs have a high waiting list, so it is recommended to apply as early as possible. For general queries call on (803) 896-9001 or (803) 896-8831.
Soteria Community Development Corporation
The Soteria Community Development Corporation (Soteria CDC) is a South Carolina nonprofit based in Greenville that mainly focuses on providing help to the formerly incarcerated individuals, low-income residents, and underserved communities. Soteria CDC was founded by Jerry Blassingame, they are highly known for their reentry support, second-chance employment advocacy and running affordable housing initiatives. It can be a valuable resource for felons to successfully reintegrate back into the community.
Eligibility For Soteria CDC Services
To be eligible for Soteria Community Development Corporation services, individuals must be formerly incarcerated, seeking reentry support, must be residing in South Carolina, need to provide documents like proof of income and ID, and must comply with the program rules.
How To Apply For Soteria CDC Services?
To apply, visit the official website of Soteria Community Development Corporation and explore the available reentry, employment, housing, or financial coaching programs. You can also call them directly at (864) 272-0681 or visit them at 210 Shaw Street, Greenville, SC 29609. Explain to them your current situation and ask for help that you need.
Oxford House South Carolina
Oxford House South Carolina is a network of sober living homes that mainly focuses to help people who are recovering from alcohol or drug addiction. Felons in South Carolina who are looking for structured housing after release can apply for Oxford Houses. In Oxford Houses, the members share the rent and housing responsibilities. There are a number of locations in South Carolina where Oxford Houses are available.
Eligibility For Oxford House South Carolina
To be eligible for Oxford House South Carolina, individuals must be committed to drug- and alcohol-free living, willing to follow house rules, need to pass a house interview, have the ability to pay weekly shared housing costs, and must not be actively using drugs or alcohol.
How To Apply For Oxford House South Carolina?
Applicants can use the Oxford vacancies locator and search for a house according to the suitable location. Once you find a house, you need to contact them directly and go through an interview procedure. Current residents will interview the application and will be approved if the majority votes on acceptance.
Alston Wilkes Society (AWS)
The Alston Wilkes Society is a non-profit organization that offers assistance to the individuals to rebuild their lives after release. AWS is one of the most well known reentry organizations that run a range of services including residential reentry housing, case management, employment readiness, life-skills training, counseling, community supervision support, and referrals. AWS offers these services through four Residential Reentry Centers in South Carolina.
Eligibility For Alston Wilkes Society (AWS)
To be eligible for Alston Wilkes Society (AWS), individuals must be formerly incarcerated, need referral through the Federal Bureau of Prisons or partner agencies, need to be a South Carolina resident, seeking for employment, counseling, housing and supportive services.
How To Apply For Alston Wilkes Society (AWS)?
To apply, visit the official website of Alston Wilkes Society (AWS) or contact them directly on (803) 799-2490 and explain your reentry program requirements to the staff. Some of the programs might need agency referral, if you are currently nearing release it is best to ask your counselor, probation officer, parole agent, or prison case manager to help you connect with AWS services. For general queries mail them at [email protected].
Best Job Training Programs for Felons in South Carolina
Job training grants and employment assistance programs for returning citizens in South Carolina include the South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program, Goodwill Industries Reentry Program, JUMPSTART SC and readySC. These programs offer help to the felons to reenter the workforce and also get access to job readiness, career planning, and training.
South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) Second Chance Program is a statewide reentry employment initiative offered to help out the formerly incarcerated individuals to return to the workforce. The program works in collaboration with various partners including SC DEW, SC Works, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC).
This program runs an initiative that provides pre-release and post-release job readiness support, including resume building, interview preparation, soft-skills training, computer basics, job search assistance, and connecting individuals with employers who are hiring returning citizens.
Eligibility For South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program
To be eligible for South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program, individuals with felony convictions, have permission to work in the U.S, must be seeking employment, training, or career services, and must comply with the rules of the program. Remember, the services and program might differ depending on the location and available funds.
How To Apply For South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program?
There are mainly two ways to apply for the South Carolina DEW Second Chance Program. If you are currently incarcerated you need to talk to your casework or prison staff to refer you to the program. If released, you can simply visit the local SC Works Center and request Second Chance or ex-offender employment assistance. For general queries call on (803) 737-2400 or visit them at 1550 Gadsden Street, Columbia, SC 29201.
Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina Reentry Program
Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) runs a dedicated Reentry program to help out the individual with felony records. The main aim of the program is to provide pre-release and post-release services to the felons through job readiness, career planning, and training.
Additional services also include job search assistance, placement support, resume building, interview preparation, career counseling, certification training, legal referrals, community resource connections, and tuition/financial aid assistance.
Goodwill has received major grants amounting to $842,836 for Pathway Home, $1,862,327 for Pathway Home 2, and a $4 million LifeLaunch / Pathway Home. These grants support reentry initiatives and help felons to reenter the workforce.
Eligibility For Goodwill Industries
To be eligible for Goodwill Industries reentry programs, individuals have felony backgrounds or nearing release, meet specific training or service program requirements, have legal permits to work in the U.S, some programs might require a GED/high school diploma. However, services might differ by location and depend on the available funds.
How To Apply For Goodwill Industries?
To apply, visit the Goodwill Career Services online, by phone or visit a local Career and Training Center in South Carolina. Talk to the staff and explain your reentry requirements that might help you to reenter the workforce. A staff member will determine your eligibility and refer to the available employment opportunities. For general queries call on 877-538-7975 or email them at [email protected].
JUMPSTART SC
JUMPSTART SC is a South Carolina-based nonprofit reentry organization that offers help to the incarcerated individuals and returning citizens to make easy transition from prison to back to the community. The program mainly follows a 360-degree reentry model that combines pre and post release services including housing assistance, employment, mentoring, transportation, case management, and life-skills support. The organization has more than 2,100 graduates, having a 96% success rate.
Eligibility For JUMPSTART SC
To be eligible for JUMPSTART SC, individuals must have felony backgrounds or nearing release, need to complete or participate in the in-prison JUMPSTART program, willing to follow structured program rules, and stay committed to employment, growth, and successful reentry.
How To Apply For JUMPSTART SC?
To apply for JUMPSTART SC services, the incarcerated individuals need to talk to their prison counselors, chaplains, or education/reentry staff to get enrolled in the in-prison JUMPSTART program. If already released, simply contact JUMPSTART SC directly and get help with the available assistance you need. It is recommended to apply as early as possible as the demand for this program is very high. For general queries about their services call on +1(888) 403-3815 or email them at [email protected].
readySC
readySC is a workforce training and recruiting program that is administered by the South Carolina Technical College System. readySC partners with South Carolina employers to recruit, screen and train workers for new or upcoming job roles. readySC is not a felon-specific program, however returning citizens can benefit from the program as many employers consider applicants with criminal backgrounds.
Eligibility For readySC
To be eligible for readySC, individuals must be legally eligible to work in the United States, apply for a participating employer job opening, meet job requirements, need to go through background screening if asked by the employer, and most programs prioritize South Carolina residents.
How To Apply For readySC?
Applicants need to visit the readySC job portal or find a participating employer who is connected with readySC hiring. If selected for the job, applicants need to go through assessments, interviews, or company-sponsored training and then start working. There is nothing to worry if you have felony records, many employers consider individuals with criminal background depending on the nature of the crime. To get direct assistance call on (803) 896-5359.
Free Legal Help for Returning Citizens in South Carolina
Legal help for returning citizens in South Carolina is available through South Carolina Legal Services, South Carolina Access to Justice Commission and Root & Rebound, offering help with civil legal assistance, expungement and with court guidance.
South Carolina Legal Services
South Carolina Legal Services is a nonprofit law firm that offers help to the low income residents all across South Carolina with free civil legal assistance. The organization also offers help in disputes related to housing disputes, family law, consumer debt, public benefits, education, and issues related to criminal records. You can simply visit the official website of South Carolina Legal Services or call them at 1-888-346-5592 to get direct help.
South Carolina Access to Justice Commission
South Carolina Access to Justice Commission is a statewide organization that helps the low income individuals living in South Carolina with civil legal help. They connect the low income people with legal aid resources, self-help tools, pro bono programs, expungement information, and court guidance.
It can be a valuable reentry resource for felons in South Carolina after release to get direct legal guidance. You can apply online for legal help by visiting the official website of South Carolina Access to Justice Commission. To get direct assistance call on (803) 576-3825 or email them at [email protected].
Root & Rebound South Carolina
Root & Rebound South Carolina is a nonprofit legal advocacy organization offering help to the individuals with felony records who are facing barriers to employment, housing, family reunification, probation/parole issues, and reentry. This non-profit offers legal clinics, training, educational resources, and a free reentry email hotline for formerly incarcerated individuals all across South Carolina. To learn more visit the official website of Root & Rebound South Carolina and explore the available programs. To get direct help call on (864) 807-6177 or email them at [email protected].
Federal Programs Available For Felons in South Carolina
Federal programs like the Federal Pell Grant, SNAP, TANF, Federal Bonding Program and Medicaid offer help to the felons with education, food, cash, employment and health assistance.
The Federal Pell Grant in South Carolina
The Federal Pell Grant (Second Chance Pell) is administered by the U.S. Department of Education to help out the incarcerated individuals in South Carolina to get access to college education while they are serving sentences in prison. The Second Chance Pell initiative allows the eligible students to get enrolled in approved Prison Education Programs (PEPs).
The need based financial aid in South Carolina can be used to cover for tuition, books, and required coursework. According to the U.S. Department of Education, Pell Grant awards can exceed $7,000 per year depending on eligibility. Students must submit the FAFSA application. To learn more, visit the official U.S. Department of Education website at StudentAid.gov.
SNAP For Felons in South Carolina
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in South Carolina administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services offers monthly food benefits to the eligible low income individuals and households, including felons. The main aim of the program is to ensure access to nutritious food while individuals can work towards employment, housing stability and become self-sufficient. To apply for SNAP in South Carolina, you can submit your application online through the DSS Benefits Portal, visit your local Department of Social Services county office, or call the DSS Connect Call Center at (800) 616-1309.
TANF For Felons in South Carolina
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program) in South Carolina, administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services provides cash support to the low income families to meet basic requirements like food, housing, utilities, and childcare. South Carolina has lifted the old federal drug felony ban and TANF does not automatically disqualify individuals with felony convictions if they meet the program requirements. To apply for TANF in South Carolina, you can submit your application online through the DSS Benefits Portal, visit your local Department of Social Services county office, or call the DSS Connect Call Center at (800) 616-1309 for assistance.
The Federal Bonding Program In South Carolina
The Federal Bonding Program (FBP) in South Carolina provides free, $5,000–$25,000 fidelity bonds to employers who are hiring job seekers who have criminal records. The fidelity bond protects the employers from any kind of theft or dishonesty caused by the employee for the first six months.
The Federal Bonding Program does not require any paperwork and it is completely free. The Federal Bonding Program is highly valuable for the individuals with felony convictions in South Carolina as it gives them a chance to get jobs with regards to their history. To apply for the Federal Bonding Program in South Carolina, visit your nearest South Carolina Works center or contact your local workforce agency for assistance and immediate bonding services.
Medicaid For Felons in South Carolina
Medicaid is a health coverage program administered by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services that pays for doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and preventive services for low-income adults, families, and individuals with disabilities. Remember, Medicaid services will be suspended when you are incarcerated but upon release the services resume. To apply for Medicaid in South Carolina, you can submit your application online through the Healthy Connections portal, call the South Carolina Healthy Connections Member Contact Center at (888) 549-0820, or apply in person at your local Department of Social Services county office.
Are There Emergency Help For Felons in South Carolina?
Yes, emergency help for individuals with felons records is available in South Carolina by visiting South Carolina 211 or simply dialing 211. SC 211 is a free, confidential service that is available 24/7 offering help to the callers with emergency shelter, food assistance, utility help, healthcare, mental health support, job training, and reentry services. The main aim of 211 is to connect individuals with local resources as fast as possible. Callers are assigned with a specialist who will understand your current situation and connect you with the available resources based on your needs.
Final Thoughts: How to Get Help Fast After Release
Grants for felons in South Carolina offer help with education, housing, food, healthcare, and job training, making reentry much easier. Programs like SCWINS, SC Housing, SNAP, Medicaid, and readySC offer valuable support to eligible applicants. It is recommended to apply for the programs through the official website, local office or by referral from caseworker or prison staff.
The common documents that are required to apply for most of the programs include a photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, residency proof, and release papers. Start applying today to improve your chances of approval and get immediate assistance after release.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Can felons get free money in South Carolina after release?
Yes, felons in South Carolina may qualify for financial help by applying for programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Pell Grants, and programs from other reentry organizations. However, felons need to meet the eligibility requirements to qualify for these programs.
How long after release can felons apply for grants in South Carolina?
Returning citizens in South Carolina can apply immediately for grants after release by meeting the standard eligibility requirements of the specific program. However, some programs allow pre-release applications that can be completed through the guidance of prison counselors or case managers.
Can felons get housing vouchers in South Carolina?
Yes, felons in South Carolina can qualify for Section 8 housing vouchers or low-income rental assistance. However, it depends on background checks, offense type, income level, and local housing authority rules.
What documents do felons need to apply for grants in South Carolina?
Some of the basic documents that are required to apply for grants in South Carolina include valid photo ID, Social Security card, proof of South Carolina residency, income verification, bank statements, and release papers. For education grants, applicants need to complete a FAFSA application.
Are there grants for female felons in South Carolina?
Yes, female felons in South Carolina can get access to grants and assistance programs such as TANF, SNAP, Medicaid, SC Housing rental assistance, SCWINS Scholarship, and Federal Pell Grants. These programs offer help with housing, childcare, food, healthcare, education, and job training after release.
Where can felons find immediate help in South Carolina?
To get immediate help felons in South Carolina can simply dial 211 or visit South Carolina 211. 211 helps individuals to get connected to local resources offering emergency shelter, food assistance, utility help, healthcare, mental health support, job training, and reentry services.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee approval, eligibility, or funding from any program listed. Assistance programs may change rules, funding limits, or availability without notice. Always verify details directly with official South Carolina agencies, nonprofits, or federal offices before applying. We are not affiliated with any government agency or grant provider and do not provide financial, legal, or case-specific advice.
