Grants for Car Repairs
Federal agencies, state programs, and nonprofit organizations provide grants and assistance for car repairs to help low-income individuals maintain reliable transportation for work, medical appointments, and essential needs. Below are 135 verified funding opportunities for vehicle repair and transportation assistance.
Types of Support Available
Emergency Repair Assistance
Critical repairs for work commute: engine, transmission, brakes, alternator, battery, radiator. Many programs prioritize working families.
Job Commuter Programs
TANF car repair programs, Wheels to Work initiatives, and employment-focused vehicle assistance for work transportation.
Veterans Transportation
VA medical transportation, disabled veterans vehicle grants (DAV, VFW), adaptive equipment modifications.
Medical Transportation
Medicaid non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), dialysis patient vehicle programs, healthcare access support.
Eligibility Requirements
- Income Limits: Most programs serve households at or below 200% Federal Poverty Level
- Employment Requirement: Many programs require employment or active job search (vehicle needed for work)
- Vehicle Ownership: Must own or co-own the vehicle, with registration and insurance
- Essential Repairs Only: Assistance limited to safety-critical repairs, not cosmetic work
- One-Time Assistance: Many programs provide help once per year, typically $500-$2,000 maximum
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there grants specifically for felons to start businesses?
Yes. Several programs support entrepreneurship for formerly incarcerated individuals, including the Small Business Administration's microloan programs, state reentry initiatives with business startup components, and nonprofit organizations like Defy Ventures. While direct cash grants are limited, many programs offer low-interest loans, technical assistance, and training specifically designed for people with criminal records.
Can I get housing assistance with a felony conviction?
Housing assistance is available, though some restrictions apply. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides transitional housing grants for reentry programs. Many states have "ban the box" policies for public housing, and numerous nonprofits offer transitional housing specifically for formerly incarcerated individuals. Timing and type of conviction can affect eligibility, with violent and drug-related offenses sometimes requiring longer waiting periods.
Are Pell Grants available to people with felony convictions?
Yes. As of July 1, 2023, Pell Grants are available to incarcerated individuals, marking a major policy change. Previously ineligible students with drug convictions can now receive federal financial aid. The restriction on Pell Grants for drug convictions was eliminated in 2021. However, individuals convicted of sexual offenses may still face limitations depending on state and institutional policies.
What job training programs accept people with criminal records?
Many federally-funded workforce development programs accept individuals with criminal records, including Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs, Job Corps centers, YouthBuild programs, and apprenticeship programs in trades like construction, manufacturing, and technology. The Department of Labor specifically funds reentry employment programs, and many states have "fair chance" hiring initiatives that partner with employers willing to hire people with convictions.
How long after release can I apply for reentry grants?
Timing varies by program. Immediate reentry grants (0-6 months post-release) focus on basic needs like housing, transportation, and immediate job placement. Short-term programs (6-24 months) emphasize job training, education, and skill development. Long-term support (2+ years) includes educational grants, entrepreneurship programs, and professional certification funding. Some programs have no time limits, especially educational grants and small business assistance.
Do I need to disclose my criminal record when applying for grants?
Disclosure requirements depend on the specific grant. Reentry-specific programs require disclosure as it determines eligibility. Federal student aid (FAFSA) no longer asks about drug convictions but may inquire about incarceration status. Employment training grants typically require disclosure but are designed to serve people with records. Always provide truthful information, as false statements can disqualify you and affect future applications. Many programs are specifically designed for people with convictions, so disclosure isn't disqualifying.
Additional Resources
National Reentry Resource Center
Comprehensive information on reentry programs, employment resources, and state-specific assistance.
Visit NRRC →American Job Centers
Local workforce centers offering job training, career counseling, and employment services for all job seekers.
Find Your Local Center →Pell Grants for Incarcerated Individuals
Federal financial aid now available for individuals in prison to pursue postsecondary education.
Learn About Prison Education →State Reentry Programs
Many states have dedicated reentry councils and programs offering localized support and funding.
Explore State Programs →How to Apply for Reentry Grants
- Connect with a Reentry Program Contact your local American Job Center, reentry coalition, or probation/parole officer to learn about available programs.
- Gather Documentation Prepare release paperwork, identification, proof of residence (if applicable), and details about your conviction and sentence completion.
- Assess Your Needs Determine whether you need employment assistance, housing, education, substance abuse treatment, or a combination of services.
- Apply Early Many reentry programs work best when you apply before release or immediately after. Don't wait.
- Follow Through Attend all required meetings, complete program requirements, and maintain communication with program staff.
Available Grant Opportunities
These grants are currently accepting applications. Each links to the official government agency page where you can review eligibility and apply.
Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program (HVRP), Incarcerated Veterans’ Transition Program (IVTP), and the Homeless Women Veterans' and Homeless Veterans' with Children Reintegration Grant Program (HWVHVWC) (referred to collectively as HVRP)
View on Veterans Employment and Training Service →Farmworkers Advancement Program (FAP) Grant for Program Year 2025-26 (PY 25-26)
The goal of this grant is to fund projects that focus on farmworker needs at a regional level by offering essential skills and upskilling training for farmworkers to either advance in the agricultural...
View on Employment Development Department →Helping Justice-Involved Reenter Employment 2.0
The California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) is pleased to announce the availability of approximately $9.5 million in funding for the Helping Justice-Involved Reenter Employment 2.0 (HIRE 2.0) gr...
View on Workforce Development Board →Wildlife Corridor and Fish Passage
The Program is seeking proposals for planning or implementation projects that construct, repair, modify, or remove transportation infrastructure or water resources infrastructure improving passage for...
View on Wildlife Conservation Board →Healthcare Expansion Loan Program II (HELP II)
This program will provide low-interest rate loans to California's non-profit small or rural health facilities in an efficient, timely, and cost-effective manner. Eligibility -Must be a health facilit...
View on State Treasurer's Office →CSBG Program - Department Of Social Services Misso
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Department Of Social Services Misso serving Department Of Social Services Misso...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Social Services, Virginia Department Of
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Social Services, Virginia Department Of serving Social Services, Virginia Depar...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Department Of Social Services Connecticut
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Department Of Social Services Connecticut serving Department Of Social Services...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Delaware Department Of Health & Social Services
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Delaware Department Of Health & Social Services serving Delaware Department Of ...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Social Services South Dakota Department
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Social Services South Dakota Department serving Social Services South Dakota De...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Kansas Association Of Community Action Programs Inc
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Kansas Association Of Community Action Programs Inc serving Kansas Association ...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Maryland Association Of Community Action Agency
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Maryland Association Of Community Action Agency serving Maryland Association Of...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Oklahoma Association Of Community Action Agencies, Inc.
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Oklahoma Association Of Community Action Agencies, Inc. serving Oklahoma Associ...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Community Action Partnership
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Community Action Partnership serving Community Action Partnership....
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Community Action Kentucky, Inc.
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Community Action Kentucky, Inc. serving Community Action Kentucky....
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Georgia Community Action Association, Inc.
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Georgia Community Action Association, Inc. serving Georgia Community Action Ass...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Wisconsin Community Action Program Association Incorporated
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Wisconsin Community Action Program Association Incorporated serving Wisconsin C...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Connecticut Association For Community Action, Inc.
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Connecticut Association For Community Action, Inc. serving Connecticut Associat...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →CSBG Program - Community Action Program Legal Services Inc
Block grants to states, territories, and tribes to reduce poverty and revitalize low-income communities. Administered by Community Action Program Legal Services Inc serving Community Action Program Le...
View on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services →Showing 50 of 135 grants. Browse all grants for more options.