Grants
Move.org moving grant
This moving grant by Move.org is a one-time relocation package of $500 for people who are planning to move. The grant can go towards things like truck rentals, moving services, and car shipping.
To be eligible, you must live in the United States and be moving in the next six months. Move.org offers five grants each month. Once you apply, Move.org will be in contact with you within 30 days of your move-in date to see if you qualify for one of their grants. www.move.org/moving-grant
Government moving assistance programs
Veterans Affairs Housing Assistance
Through the Department of Veterans Affairs, housing assistance is offered to veterans and service members. The housing assistance grants can help refinance a loan or purchase a home. The VA also offers resources to help veterans improve, build, or keep the home that they have now. www.va.gov/housing-assistance
USDA Rural Housing Service
The various programs offered by the USDA’s Rural Housing Service aim to improve housing and facilities in rural areas. Families and individuals who live in rural areas are eligible for grants, loans, and loan guarantees. They also work with nonprofits and other agencies to provide technical assistance grants and loans. www.rd.usda.gov/about-rd/agencies/rural-housing-service
Low-Income Moving Assistance Programs and Resources
Modest Needs
Modest Needs, which was founded in 2002, offers one-time self-sufficiency grants of $750 to $1,250 on average to those who are working and living just above the poverty level. These no-strings-attached grants can be used for a variety of different things, though because they are paid out to service providers and vendors instead of families themselves you’ll need to have a direct place you’d like the grant to go — for example, toward a moving truck rental.
How to apply: It’s free to apply for a grant. Visit ModestNeeds.org to learn more and fill out an application, and check out the information on grant types and eligibility requirements.
The YWCA
This women- and minority-focused organization offers a variety of housing-related assistance programs, including transitional services that can offer help with moving expenses. Locate your nearest YWCA program and reach out to see what services may be available to you.
How to apply: Go to YWCA.org for more information, or call the organization’s national hotline at (202) 467-0801.
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities provides a number of needs-based assistance programs for families. This includes emergency moving assistance for those who qualify, particularly people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. If the cost of moving is what’s standing between you and stable housing, they may be able to help.
How to apply: Visit CatholicCharities.org to find your local chapter and apply for low-income moving assistance.
211
While not a funding organization itself, 211 is a free national hotline that connects those in need with community services that can help. If you’re looking for assistance with moving- and/or housing-related expenses, call the hotline to find out exactly what type of support may be available to you and what next steps you’ll need to take.
How to apply: You do not need to apply for assistance from 211. Instead, simply call 211 on your phone or visit 211.org.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army housing assistance includes shelters, transitional housing and permanent supportive housing. In cities where the organization doesn’t have any shelters, it covers the cost of partner shelters. Salvation Army’s transitional housing programs include food, lodging in temporary shelters, and other resources and support needed to regain stability. The Salvation Army’s long-term housing services range from affordable housing programs for low-income seniors to apartment assistance for families.
How to apply: Put in your zip code on the Salvation Army housing page to drill down to the local branches’ contact information and the services they offer. You can also fill out the contact form or call 800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769).
Other Resources
Contact your county government
Even if they are not able to help with moving expenses directly, your county government is a great resource for connecting you with programs that can. Ask about moving assistance programs that may be available, keeping in mind that you may need to provide specifics around what exactly you need help paying for and how much assistance you need.
Call local religious organizations
Many churches, synagogues, mosques and other religious centers set aside charitable funds for helping those in the community. And like many of the other organizations and departments mentioned on this page, if they’re not able to assist you directly with moving expenses they may be able to connect you with someone who can.
Research local moving companies
Some moving companies — particularly those that specialize in eviction services — offer public assistance/HRA moving programs that provide those who qualify with no-cost moves. You’ll likely need to be undergoing an eviction yourself, but if that’s the case, then these programs can be invaluable in ensuring that you end up back on your feet.