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Cash Assistance
Mower County Health & Human Services Financial Assistance unit administers several cash assistance programs to eligible Minnesotans to help them meet their basic needs.
Please note that each assistance program has different rules and some programs have time limits.
Apply for Assistance
To apply for cash assistance (including emergency assistance) - apply online through MN Benefits Website or complete the Combined Application Form and call our office for an appointment. Note - Emergency Assistance is typically only available if there is an eviction or utility disconnect and is subject to fund availability.
Types of Cash Assistance Programs:
Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) - MFIP is a monthly cash assistance program for families with low incomes and pregnant women. Visit here for details.
Diversionary Work Program (DWP) - DWP is a short-term work program that provides employment services and basic living costs to eligible families. DWP is for families who are looking for work but need help with basic living expenses and who have not received cash assistance during the last 12 months. Visit here for details.
General Assistance (GA) - GA is a monthly cash payment for adults currently unable to work who have little to no income, will soon return to work, or are waiting for help from other programs. Visit here for details
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) - MSA is a small extra monthly cash payment that helps adults who are eligible for the federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Visit here for details.
Housing Support - formerly known as Group Residential Housing (GRH), is a monthly payment that helps pay room and board costs for people with low income who live in authorized settings and are age 65 and older, or adults who are under age 65 and have a condition that limits their self-sufficiency. Visit here for details.
Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) - RCA is a one time, up to 4-month monthly cash payment for newly arrived single adult or married couples without children who have certain humanitarian protections. Visit here for details.
Emergency Assistance - Families with low incomes experiencing household emergencies, such as evictions or utility disconnects, may qualify for this cash grant program. Visit here for details.