Whether you need short-term or long-term assistance, there are various grants for felons in Texas that provide support.
Grant money for released prisoners in Texas is provided by federal and state programs. Funding is usually based on financial need, and most programs have upper-income limits.
Popular Grants For Felons in Texas 2025
If you meet the eligibility criteria, grants and financial assistance for released prisoners in Texas can help you pay for:
- Food
- Rent
- Utility bills
- College or trade school
- Emergency expenses
- Starting a business
Food Help For Felons In Texas
If you’re on a low income, you’ll qualify for a monthly grant to help you pay for food. This grant is paid through the Texas SNAP program, also known as food stamps.
If you’re under 52 without children, you can only get SNAP for 3 months unless you’re working at least 20 hours a week or in a job training program. The 3-month restriction doesn’t apply if you’re disabled or pregnant.
How much can you get? The amount depends on your income and household size. A single adult without children earning less than $2,005 can get up to $291 a month.
How To Get Grants To Help To Pay Your Rent
Having a felony on your record won’t automatically disqualify you from housing assistance programs that help you afford your rent.
Both the Housing Choice Voucher program and the Public Housing program accept felons on a case-by-case basis. Eligibility for these programs is based on income and household size.
Because of the strong demand for rent assistance, you may have to join a waiting list. Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) for more details.
Grants For Phone & Internet In Texas
Felons can qualify for low-cost phone and internet service through Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
ACP gives a monthly discount worth up to $30 on your broadband bill. Lifeline offers a discount on your phone or internet service.
Qualifying for either program also makes you eligible for free cell phone plans which include 12.5 GB of data, a free Android smartphone, unlimited talk and text, and free international calling.
If you’re already getting SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or Tribal assistance benefits, you’re automatically eligible for both programs. Otherwise, income limits apply.
Get Grants To Pay For Utility Bills
Texas helps low-income residents (including felons) pay for gas and electricity through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).
Like other Texas residents, felons can qualify for assistance if they’re within the federal poverty guidelines.
Other sources of grants to pay for energy bills include the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities. Call the free 2-1-1 helpline for more information.
What Grants Can Felons Get To Pay For Education & Training?
Education grants are another type of help for felons in Texas. This grant money for released prisoners in Texas makes it possible to earn a degree or gain new vocational skills and certifications.
WIOA Programs & Grants
Felons in Texas can benefit from Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs designed to support job seekers, especially those facing employment barriers.
Texas Workforce Solutions partners with local organizations to give felons access to education, training, and employment assistance, all aimed at helping them get back into the workforce.
Help for felons in Texas includes:
- One-on-one job counseling helping program participants with résumé building, interview preparation, and introductions to second-chance employers open to hiring felons.
- Funding for vocational training programs, apprenticeships, and certificate programs in in-demand fields like welding, commercial driving, or IT.
- Participation in paid internships and on-the-job training programs with partnering employers.
- Funding to study for a GED or associate’s degree at a community college.
To get started, visit a nearby Workforce Center and speak with a WIOA counselor, who will explain your options and guide you through the application process.
Federal Pell Grants
Having a felony is no barrier to getting a Pell Grant unless your record includes convictions for certain drug or sex offenses. Pell Grants are given to all eligible low-income students to help pay for college or trade school.
You’ll need a high school diploma or GED, and the current maximum you can get each year is $7,395.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Grants of up to $4,000 per year are given on a first come first served basis to students with exceptional financial need. Apply early for a better chance of receiving this grant.
Learn more: https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/fseog
The Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG)
This needs-based financial aid program is for students attending public colleges, universities, and trade schools in Texas. The grant helps cover tuition and fees making education and training more accessible to low-income students.
Grant amounts vary by institution but generally fall into the $100 to $5,000 per year range.
Eligibility is based on financial need, enrollment status (at least half-time), and maintaining good grades. Having a felony won’t disqualify you. Funding is limited so apply early through your school’s financial aid office.
More information: https://comptroller.texas.gov/programs/education/msp/funding/aid/state-programs/txtpe.php
Small Business Grants in Texas for Felons
You might be eligible for a grant through the Texas Small Business Development Center Network. The SBDC is a free service providing expert help to start your business.
Your SBDC will be able to give you information about state, county, and city government programs that offer small business grants to local entrepreneurs. Meet with an advisor to find out about grants you can apply for.
Get help from the SBDC: https://www.sbdctexas.org/
NASE Growth Grants
Members of the National Association for the Self-Employed can apply for a $4,000 grant after 90 days. Felons can join the NASE with a membership costing $11.95 per month.
To apply for a grant, you’ll need a business plan and be able to show how the funds will be used in your business.
WomensNet Amber Grant
Women (including previously incarcerated women) can apply for one of the monthly $10,000 grants handed out by WomensNet. There’s also an annual grant of $25,000.
Fill out a simple form on WomensNet and pay a $15 fee to apply for the grant.
Awesome Foundation Grants
Awesome Foundation grants are for anyone wanting to start a business or fund awesome projects. The foundation issues multiple $1,000 grants each month and it’s easy to apply.
Just fill out the form on their website with details about yourself, your project, and your plans for the money if you win.
Help For Felons In Texas
Goodwill Industries provides extensive help for felons in Texas. Through its targeted reentry programs, Goodwill provides job training, case management, and support services designed to address the challenges felons often face when returning to work.
Job Training Programs
Goodwill provides job training in fields open to hiring individuals with a criminal background, such as construction, retail, hospitality, warehousing, and customer service. Programs include vocational training, certifications, and apprenticeships.
Employment Placement Services
Job placement services connect felons with second-chance employers participating in Goodwill’s local business network.
Case Management and Individual Support
Case managers work one-on-one with participants to set realistic goals and track progress. They also help with résumé building, interview coaching, and access to digital literacy classes.
Supportive Services and Resources
Goodwill helps felons overcome obstacles that hinder training and job readiness by providing transportation assistance, clothing for interviews, connections to housing services, and financial assistance for released prisoners in Texas.
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