08/26/2026
What is going on in the State of Indiana: Black families in Indiana do not have a single, statewide race-exclusive benefit program in 2026, but they benefit from broader state assistance initiatives, targeted economic and youth programs, and community-specific advocacy agendas.General State Assistance ProgramsChildcare Scholarships: Programs like the state's Build, Learn, Grow fund cover up to 80% of care costs for eligible families with children up to age 12.Energy and Food Aid: Low-income households can access the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for utility help, alongside standard food assistance (note that statewide SNAP rules in 2026 restrict purchasing candy and soft drinks with benefits).Community and Advocacy SupportIndiana Black Expo (IBE): Organizations like the Indiana Black Expo offer structured community assets, including higher education scholarship funds, youth leadership tracks like the AmplifyU Institute, and economic workshops aimed at building business capital and closing the wealth gap.The Indianapolis Urban League: Provides targeted regional support, such as the Education Matters Scholarship geared toward African-American adult learners and college students.Legislative Advocacy: The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC) has pushed a 2026 "Working Families, Winning Futures" legislative agenda focused on easing medical debt burdens, lowering utility rates, and addressing cost-of-living barriers for working families.
What more can we do for our families and communities???