Assistance

Assistance

The City of Bloomington Township (COBT) offers several types of financial assistance – General Assistance, Emergency Assistance, and the HERE Program.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE

General Assistance is designed for individuals who do not have legal dependents in the home.  If approved, a flat monthly grant of up to $345 per month is available for basic needs, such as:

  • Shelter
  • Utilities
  • Food
  • Transportation
  • Household and other personal essentials

General Assistance is available for as long as the individual remains eligible.  Eligibility is based on financial and non-financial factors and will be reevaluated every 30 days.  Recipients must also participate in the Township’s workfare program.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

Emergency Assistance is designed for households with dependent children or individuals exceeding General Assistance guidelines and have an emergent need, such as:

  • A housing late payment or eviction notice
  • A utility late payment or disconnect notice
  • Verified homelessness

Eligibility is based on financial and non-financial factors.  The amount of the Emergency Assistance grant varies based on need and family size and is only available once every 12 months.

HERE PROGRAM

Established in November 2022, the Housing Emergency Relief Efforts (HERE) Program is designed to assist individuals or families who may not qualify for General Assistance or Emergency Assistance, and have an emergent need, such as

  • A housing late payment or eviction notice
  • A utility late payment or disconnect notice
  • Inability to pay property taxes, homeowners, or tenant rental insurance

Eligibility is based on financial and non-financial factors.  A one-time grant of up to $3,000 per individual or family is available through March 31, 2024.

HOW TO APPLY*

To apply for Bloomington Township assistance, a formal request must be made either online or with an application packet.

Township Assistance Online Application

Call the City of Bloomington Township at (309) 434-2730 or stop by the office at 607 S. Gridley Street, Bloomington 61701, to complete a questionnaire and get an application packet.  All application documents can be returned by dropping off at the COBT office, emailing townshipoffice@cityblm.org, or faxing (309) 827-3667.

Once all the necessary documentation has been received, a caseworker will review the file and make a determination as to what type of assistance will be granted.

*NOTE: All applicants MUST be a resident of the City of Bloomington Township