The federal government supports the preservation and improvement of family welfare through programs such as grants to assist couples in both their marriage and in managing their family. Grants for married couples include food, health and financial assistance through cash payments. Basically, the main objective is to foster healthy marriage and familial relationships. Eligibility for such grants depend on the nature and the program’s scope.
Healthy Marriage Promotion and Responsible Fatherhood Grants
The Healthy Marriage Promotion and Responsible Fatherhood Grants program is under the Department of Health and Human Services and the office of Administration for Children and Families. The program is authorized under the Social Security Act and seeks to properly educate married couples who want marriage education services on a voluntary basis. The program supports responsible parenthood programs to help reduce parental absence. The program awards financial support to qualified states, tribal organizations, Indian tribes and territories on a competitive basis.
Federal Direct Student Loans
The main objective of the Federal Direct Student Loans program is to offer funding opportunities and loan grants to married couples with children who are pursuing vocational, undergraduate or graduate postsecondary degrees. Instead of going to private lenders, the government is offering married couples to avail loans directly from the government. Recipients are required to pay back the loan six months after the child stops pursuing at least half of the standard academic workload required. Eligible individuals for the program include U.S. citizens and individuals holding similar status. People who want to qualify for the program should present certification from their school. The program is under the Department of Education and the Office of Student Financial Assistance Programs, and is authorized under the Higher Education Act of 1965.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is under the Department of Health and Human Services and the office of Administration for Children and Families. The grant is authorized under the Social Security Act. The main objective of the program is to help needy married couples and their families. Particularly, the program helps married couples to properly provide and care for their children. Educational opportunities concerning marriage and job preparation are also included. The grant also encourages the preservation of two-parent families.