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Hardship in Maryland occurs when individuals and families struggle to afford essential needs due to financial constraints. This can include difficulties with housing, utilities, food, and healthcare. Maryland offers a variety of support programs through state and local governments, as well as non-profit organizations. These programs aim to provide a safety net for residents facing these challenges. Accessing these resources is vital to prevent severe issues like homelessness and food insecurity.
This report provides a detailed overview of the hardship relief programs available in Maryland. The information is organized by the type of assistance offered, such as housing, utilities, food, and emergency financial aid. You will find explanations of eligibility criteria, application processes, and contact information to help those in need.
Several organizations are central to hardship relief efforts in Maryland. The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) manages many financial aid programs, including SNAP, TCA, and energy assistance. The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) focuses on housing-related aid like ERAP. 211 Maryland is a statewide helpline and online resource offering information and referrals for health and human services. The Maryland Food Bank addresses food insecurity by distributing food through a network of pantries. Local governments and non-profits also offer specific programs for their communities, such as those in College Park and Baltimore City.
Structure of Hardship Relief in Maryland
Hardship relief in Maryland involves collaboration across different levels of government and the non-profit sector. Individuals may need to contact multiple organizations for comprehensive support. No single entity handles all types of relief. For example, DHS provides broad financial aid, while DHCD specializes in housing. 211 offers information, food banks focus on food, and local entities tailor aid to community needs.
This multi-faceted system requires individuals to explore various options for the support they need. Eligibility and resource availability can differ based on where someone lives in Maryland. For instance, Baltimore City residents might have access to programs not available elsewhere. Therefore, understanding hardship relief in Maryland means considering both state-wide and local programs.
Maryland has several programs to help with housing hardship, focusing on rental and mortgage assistance, as well as homelessness prevention.
Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAP)
ERAP is a key program providing financial aid to renters facing difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It helps prevent evictions and promotes housing stability. Doorloop's blog notes that ERAP offers financial support for past-due rent, utilities, and future rent. Maryland Physicians Care adds that ERAP in Maryland is managed through the Maryland Eviction Partnership, with funds going to property management or local jurisdictions for eligible tenants.
Eligibility for ERAP
To be eligible for ERAP, several criteria usually apply:
Application Process for ERAP
Applying for ERAP generally involves these steps:
ERAP is often managed at the county or city level, so requirements and availability can vary. For example, Prince George's County has its own ERAP with specific priorities. As of May 2024, they prioritize applications with active eviction cases. Due to funding limits, some programs might be closed or have restrictions. Contact the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and your local housing department for the latest ERAP information. The Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Call Center at 877-546-5595 is also a helpful resource.
Mortgage Assistance for Homeowners
Options for mortgage assistance in Maryland have changed. The Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) helped homeowners struggling with mortgage payments due to COVID-19 related hardships. It offered grants and loans for mortgage payments, property taxes, and insurance. However, the Maryland HAF program stopped accepting new applications on September 18, 2023, as funds are fully allocated.
Remaining Resources for Homeowners
While HAF is no longer accepting new applications, other resources are available:
Homelessness Prevention and Support
Maryland has various programs for those facing homelessness or at risk of losing housing.
The focus on eviction prevention alongside shelters and transitional housing shows an integrated approach to housing instability in Maryland. Seeking help early through eviction prevention programs is crucial.
Maryland offers several programs to help low-income households with utility costs through the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP). OHEP provides grants and programs to make energy costs more manageable and prevent service disconnections.
Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP)
MEAP helps eligible households with home heating bills (gas, electricity, or oil). Payments are made directly to the fuel supplier or utility company. Applications are accepted year-round, but benefits are usually provided once per fiscal year.
Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP)
EUSP assists with electric bills by providing financial aid to reduce future charges. Enrolling in a budget billing plan with the utility company is generally required. EUSP can sometimes help with past-due electric bills.
Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA)
ARA can help customers with significant past-due electric and/or gas bills. Eligible customers may receive a grant, often up to $2,000, to reduce their outstanding balance. There's usually a minimum past-due amount, and there might be a waiting period between ARA grants.
Utility Service Protection Program (USPP)
USPP protects low-income families from utility shut-offs during the winter heating season (November 1st to March 31st). MEAP-eligible customers are usually also eligible for USPP, which often requires a year-round budget billing plan.
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
LIHWAP offers emergency help to eligible households with drinking water and wastewater bills, especially those with past-due balances of 30 days or more. Assistance is often first-come, first-served, depending on funding.
Eligibility and Application for OHEP Programs
Eligibility for OHEP programs is mainly based on household income, with specific thresholds varying by program and household size. Applicants are generally expected to have applied for other available federal aid.
You can apply for OHEP programs in several ways:
Common required documents include:
Additional Utility Assistance Resources
For help with utility bills, contact OHEP at 1-800-332-6347. You can find local office contact information on the DHS website. The Fuel Fund of Maryland can also assist eligible customers who have used all other government aid. Contact your utility companies directly to ask about payment plans or other assistance programs. The Maryland Public Service Commission also provides resources for consumers needing help with bills or facing termination notices.
The emphasis on budget billing in OHEP programs helps low-income households manage costs with predictable payments. Energy Assistance is available year-round, but benefits are usually limited to once per fiscal year.
Maryland has several programs to help with food hardship, ensuring access to nutritious food for low-income individuals and families.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP is a federal program providing monthly financial aid to eligible low-income households for purchasing food. Eligibility depends on income, household size, and resources. The Maryland Department of Human Services provides income guidelines. SNAP is available for those working for low wages, unemployed, working part-time, receiving other assistance, elderly or disabled with limited income, and those experiencing homelessness.
Applying for SNAP
You can apply for SNAP:
Maryland Hunger Solutions can also help with SNAP applications. Approved benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card for use at authorized retailers for various food items. In Maryland, SNAP can also be used online at some retailers like Amazon and Walmart for eligible food items only. For SNAP questions, call the DSS Customer Call Center at 1-800-332-6347. Maryland Hunger Solutions can be reached at 866-821-5552 for application help.
Maryland Food Bank
The Maryland Food Bank is a key non-profit distributing food through a network of pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. They run programs like Farm to Food Bank and Mobile Markets. You can find local food pantries on their website (mdfoodbank.org) by entering your ZIP code. Residents of Prince George's and Montgomery Counties should check the Capital Area Food Bank's website (capitalareafoodbank.org). Calling 211 is another way to find local food assistance.
Maryland Emergency Food Program (MEFP)
MEFP provides annual grants to feeding organizations statewide to help them purchase food for families in need. While MEFP doesn't directly give food to individuals, it supports the organizations that do. Contact information for MEFP is on the DHS website.
The food assistance system in Maryland uses a tiered approach. SNAP offers ongoing monthly support, while food banks and pantries provide more immediate, often emergency, help.
Maryland has several emergency financial aid programs for individuals and families facing immediate crises.
Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC)
The Maryland Department of Human Services administers EAFC, providing emergency cash aid to families with children under 21. This helps with urgent needs like rent and utilities. Funds are available through the local Department of Social Services, and eligible families can usually receive this aid once every two years, depending on funding.
EAFC Eligibility and Application
To be eligible for EAFC:
Apply at your local DSS office in person, or by mail, fax, or online through the MyMDTHINK website. Required documents typically include:
Prince George's County DSS has additional criteria, including county residency, specific relationship to the child, U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status, job search or employment engagement, and not having received emergency aid in the past 24 months.
AmeriCorps Member Assistance Fund
This fund offers emergency cash aid to eligible AmeriCorps members serving in Maryland who face financial hardship that could prevent them from finishing their service. It can provide up to $700 in emergency cash, and up to $1500 for housing or medical emergencies during their service year.
Eligibility and Application
To be eligible:
Applications are reviewed weekly until funds are depleted. You need to upload documents to verify your identity, AmeriCorps status, and proof of financial need. Note that as of December 13, 2024, funds for AmeriCorps members aged 26 and older are exhausted.
Local Emergency Assistance Programs
Some local governments offer their own emergency financial aid. For example, the City of College Park helps eligible residents with urgent needs related to food, shelter, rent, medical care, and transportation. Eligibility usually requires residency in the specific area and demonstrated financial hardship due to an emergency. Application processes and requirements vary, so check with your local city or county government.
Maryland's emergency assistance includes both state-level and local programs. Individuals facing an emergency should explore resources at both levels for the best chance of support.
Maryland provides various other programs to support residents facing different types of hardship.
Medical, Transportation, and Burial Assistance
Temporary Cash and Disability Assistance
Targeted Support and Retirement Plan Withdrawals
Maryland also has programs for specific populations like veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Under certain financial hardship conditions, participants in the Maryland Supplemental Retirement Plan may be eligible for an in-service withdrawal from their 401(k) account. These conditions include specific medical, housing, educational, eviction/foreclosure prevention, funeral, and disaster-related expenses. However, hardship withdrawals have tax implications, so seek tax advice first. To qualify, you must exhaust all other available withdrawals (excluding loans) and certify insufficient liquid assets. Supporting documentation is required. For more information, call 1-800-545-4730.
Maryland's hardship relief extends beyond basic needs to include medical care, transportation, and dignified burial options, recognizing the diverse challenges individuals may face.
Several resources can help individuals navigate the hardship relief programs and application processes in Maryland.
211 Maryland and Maryland Access Point
Steps for Seeking Assistance
Common Documentation
Typical documents needed for hardship relief programs include:
Keep copies of all application materials and follow up if you don't receive a response in a reasonable time.
Local Departments of Social Services (DSS)
DSS offices are key contacts for many hardship relief programs. Find your local office's contact information on the DHS website (dhs.maryland.gov/local-offices/). They can provide information, applications, and help with programs like SNAP, TCA, and Emergency Assistance.
Maryland has a wide range of hardship relief programs to support residents facing financial difficulties. These include housing, utility, food, and emergency financial assistance.
It is vital to seek help early to prevent crises from worsening. Contacting resources like 211 Maryland promptly can offer valuable guidance. 211 Maryland is a central point for information and referrals for health and human services statewide.
Maryland residents in need should use the resources in this report and contact the relevant agencies to get the help they need. Understanding the available programs, eligibility, and application processes can help individuals take steps to overcome financial challenges and achieve stability.
Summary Table of Key Maryland Hardship Relief Programs:
| Program Name | Type of Assistance | Administering Agency/Organization | Key Contact | Brief Eligibility Overview |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) | Rental and utility arrears, sometimes future rent | Local County/City Housing Departments, DHCD | Contact local housing department | Low-income renters affected by COVID-19 |
| Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) (MEAP, EUSP, ARA, LIHWAP) | Heating, electric, past-due, and water bills | Maryland Department of Human Services | 1-800-332-6347, dhs.maryland.gov/ohep | Low-income households struggling with energy/water bills |
| Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Monthly benefits for purchasing food | Maryland Department of Human Services | 1-800-332-6347, myMDTHINK portal | Low-income individuals and families |
| Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC) | Emergency cash assistance for rent, utilities, etc. | Local County Departments of Social Services | Contact local DSS office | Families with children under 21 facing an emergency |
| 211 Maryland | Information and referrals for various needs | United Way of Central Maryland | Dial 211, text ZIP to 898-211, 211md.org | Maryland residents needing help with health and human services |
| Maryland Food Bank | Food distribution to local pantries and programs | Maryland Food Bank (non-profit) | mdfoodbank.org | Individuals and families facing food insecurity (access through local partners) |
Eligibility for most hardship assistance programs in Maryland, such as the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and energy assistance programs, often considers household income. For ERAP, the income limit is typically at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with priority given to households below 50% AMI. Energy assistance programs through the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) also have income-based eligibility, and specific income standards are available on their website.
Maryland offers the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) to provide emergency assistance with drinking water and wastewater bills. This program helps eligible households, particularly those with past-due balances, manage their water expenses. You can apply for LIHWAP through the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) by visiting their website or contacting them directly.
Yes, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) in Maryland is designed to help renters facing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program can assist with past-due rent, utilities, and sometimes future rent payments. You can apply through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development or your local county or city housing departments.
While the Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is no longer accepting new applications, homeowners can still seek help from HUD-approved housing counselors for advice on foreclosure prevention and mortgage options. Maryland Legal Aid also provides free legal services for eligible residents facing foreclosure. Additionally, Baltimore City residents may be eligible for the Emergency Mortgage & Housing Assistance Program (EMHAP).
The Maryland Food Bank partners with a large network of food pantries and programs across the state to distribute food to those in need. You can locate food pantries in your local area by using the "Find Food" tool on the Maryland Food Bank's website (mdfoodbank.org). For residents in Prince George's and Montgomery Counties, the Capital Area Food Bank's website (capitalareafoodbank.org) can help you find resources. You can also call 211 for information and referrals to local food assistance programs.
Yes, the AmeriCorps Member Assistance Fund provides emergency cash assistance to eligible AmeriCorps members serving in Maryland who are experiencing financial hardship. This fund can help with expenses related to housing, medical needs, transportation, and family loss. You can find more information and apply through the AmeriCorps website or the administering organization, Ameraid.
The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) in Maryland is designed to protect low-income families from utility shut-offs during the winter heating season, which runs from November 1st to March 31st. Customers eligible for the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) are generally also eligible for USPP, which often requires enrollment in a year-round budget billing plan.
The myMDTHINK portal is an online platform where you can apply for various financial assistance programs offered by the Maryland Department of Human Services, including SNAP, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), and energy assistance programs. This can streamline the application process for multiple programs. You can access the portal through the DHS website.
Yes, the Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC) program provides emergency cash assistance to families with children under the age of 21 who need help with urgent needs like rent or utilities. This assistance is typically available through the local Department of Social Services, and eligibility requirements apply.
211 Maryland is a valuable resource that provides information and referrals for a wide range of health and human service needs, including various hardship relief programs. You can access their services by dialing 211 from any phone, texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting their website at 211md.org. The Maryland Department of Human Services website (dhs.maryland.gov) also provides information on many state-administered programs.
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