When gas prices keep climbing and public transportation options fall short, many families turn to churches that help with gas vouchers.
In the United States, transportation is the second-largest expense for most households, right behind housing.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American household spent over $5,000 on transportation in 2023 alone. For low-income families, even a single unexpected trip-like a job interview, a doctor’s appointment, or a school meeting-can tip the scales from “barely making it” to “can’t make it at all.”
That’s where church-based gas voucher programs step in.
Across the country, hundreds of churches have stepped up to fill this gap. In 2024, more than 40% of faith-based gas assistance programs included some form of transportation help, such as gas vouchers, bus tickets, or ride services.
These programs don’t just hand out fuel cards – they provide a lifeline for people facing job loss, medical emergencies, or family crises.
Churches that help with gas vouchers often partner with local gas stations, social service agencies, and community organizations to maximize their impact.
If you are struggling to afford gas expenses, you are not alone.
In this guide, you’ll learn which churches offer gas voucher assistance, how to qualify, and what steps to take to get help when you need it most.
Let’s get started…
What Are Church Gas Voucher Programs?
Church gas voucher programs provide gas cards or vouchers to people who need help with transportation costs. These programs aim to solve immediate transportation needs for folks going through tough times.
Most church gas voucher programs work pretty simply. Churches partner with local gas stations and purchase vouchers or gift cards. When someone meets the program requirements, the church gives them a gas voucher they can use like cash at specific gas stations.
Voucher amounts typically range from $10-$50 depending on the church and your situation.
Some larger organizations might offer up to $75 in certain cases.
Most churches limit how often you can get help – usually once every 3-6 months – because their funding has limits too.
List of Major Churches That Help with Gas Vouchers
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities runs one of the largest networks of emergency assistance programs in the country, including gas voucher programs in many locations. Their local agencies tailor programs to community needs.
In Northern Kansas, Catholic Charities typically offers $10 vouchers that must be used within 24 hours. Their Financial Assistance program in St. Cloud provides fuel cards to those with valid driver’s licenses and current insurance.
Catholic Charities of Walla Walla offers one-time $20 gas vouchers to individuals in need.
To qualify for Catholic Charities gas assistance, you typically need:
- Valid driver’s license
- Proof of current auto insurance
- Income verification (varies by location)
- Residence in their service area
Most Catholic Charities offices require an appointment and limit assistance to once every 6 months.
Call your local office directly or email them to start the application process.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers several programs that help with gas and transportation needs. Their assistance comes in various forms depending on your location.
The Salvation Army’s HeatShare program provides emergency utility assistance, including gas bill help, in Minnesota and surrounding states.
Their Shield of Caring program gives grants up to $250 for customers with household incomes below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level.
In addition to utility assistance, many Salvation Army locations offer direct gas vouchers.
One success story shows how they helped a woman who had just gotten a new job but couldn’t afford gas to get there.
The Salvation Army provided her with $60 worth of gas cards, allowing her to get to work until her first paycheck arrived.
To access Salvation Army gas vouchers:
- Contact your local Salvation Army center
- Bring ID and proof of need
- Be prepared to explain your specific situation
- Complete their application process
St. Vincent de Paul Society
The St. Vincent de Paul Society works through local Catholic parishes to provide emergency assistance, including gas vouchers. Their focus is on emergency needs and one-time assistance.
The Society offers small one-time amounts of financial help for gas vouchers at many locations.
For example, the Saint Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Church provides gas vouchers along with food vouchers and bus fare.
This organization puts special emphasis on helping people achieve self-sufficiency, not just offering temporary help.
They often have volunteers who work directly with families to address root causes of financial struggles while providing immediate assistance.
To apply for help from St. Vincent de Paul:
- Contact your local Catholic parish
- Ask for the St. Vincent de Paul representative
- Leave a message with your contact information
- Expect a callback within 24-48 hours
United Methodist Church
United Methodist Church congregations across the country offer community assistance programs, including gas vouchers for essential travel needs.
The church has served millions worldwide through their assistance programs. Their approach focuses on meeting immediate needs while connecting people to other community resources that might help long-term.
United Methodist Churches typically offer:
- Gas vouchers for essential travel
- Food pantries and clothing assistance
- Emergency financial aid for various needs
To find help through United Methodist Churches:
- Visit their official website to locate a congregation near you
- Call the church office directly
- Explain your situation and transportation needs
- Ask about application requirements
Lutheran Social Services
Lutheran Social Services collaborates with local Lutheran churches to provide assistance programs, including gas card distribution. They focus on helping low-income families with transportation challenges.
Individual Lutheran churches also run their own programs.
For example, Zion Lutheran Church in Minot partners with Simonson to provide $20 gas vouchers. Their goal is to provide a minimum of $100 in assistance monthly, which equals five vouchers.
Lutheran Social Services typically provides:
- Gas card distribution for immediate needs
- Employment support services
- Housing and utility assistance
To access Lutheran gas voucher programs, contact your local Lutheran Social Services office or nearby Lutheran churches directly.
Episcopal Church
The Episcopal Church offers community outreach programs that include transportation assistance.
Many local Episcopal churches provide gas vouchers for urgent needs along with other support services.
Their programs vary widely by location, but many focus on helping people get to medical appointments, job interviews, and other essential activities.
The church’s approach typically involves addressing immediate needs while working toward long-term solutions.
To find Episcopal Church gas assistance:
- Locate your nearest Episcopal church
- Contact their office to ask about assistance programs
- Inquire about specific requirements
- Schedule an appointment if necessary
How To Apply For Gas Vouchers From Churches?
Required Documentation
Most church gas voucher programs require similar documentation. Having these items ready before you apply will speed up the process:
- Valid driver’s license
- Current proof of auto insurance
- Vehicle registration (in your name)
- Proof of income or financial hardship
- Proof of residence (utility bill or lease)
- Social Security card (for some programs)
- Explanation of why you need transportation assistance
For example, Westminster Presbyterian Church requires a Social Security Card, current valid driver’s license, and proof of residence such as a utility bill for their $20 gasoline voucher program.
Eligibility Requirements
While each church has its own rules, common eligibility requirements include:
- Financial need (often based on income guidelines)
- Residence in the service area of the church
- Valid reason for transportation assistance
- Limited frequency (most allow assistance once every 3-6 months)
- Valid ID and insurance documentation
Ravalli County’s ministerial vouchers specify that the requestor’s name must match the person bringing it in, and they must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and current registration all in their name.
Application Process Tips
Follow these steps to apply for church gas vouchers:
- Research local churches that offer gas assistance
- Call ahead to confirm program availability and requirements
- Gather all required documents before visiting
- Be specific about your transportation needs
- Apply early in the month (many programs run out of funds quickly)
- Be honest about your situation
- Don’t miss your appointment (arriving late may forfeit your spot)
- Follow up if needed
Regional Church Gas Voucher Programs
Midwest Programs
The Midwest has several effective church gas voucher programs, particularly in Minnesota and North Dakota.
The Salvation Army’s HeatShare program is prominent in this region, offering emergency utility assistance including gas help.
Zion Lutheran Church in Minot, North Dakota runs a Gas Voucher Sponsorship program in partnership with Simonson gas stations. They provide five $20 gas vouchers monthly to those in need.
Southern Region Assistance
Churches in the southern states often coordinate with local gas stations to provide vouchers.
Many programs in this region focus on helping people get to job interviews and medical appointments.
Northeast Church Resources
Northeast church programs often coordinate with severe winter weather assistance.
Many Catholic parishes and Episcopal churches in this region offer gas vouchers as part of wider emergency assistance programs.
West Coast Options
On the West Coast, you’ll find programs like Catholic Charities of Walla Walla, which provides one-time $20 gas vouchers to individuals in Washington state.
Saint Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Church in Bellingham also offers small one-time gas vouchers specifically for residents of Bellingham’s Happy Valley and Fairhaven neighborhoods.
Finding Local Programs
To find gas voucher programs in your area:
- Call 2-1-1 for local resource referrals
- Use websites like FindHelp.org
- Contact your local Catholic Charities office
- Reach out to nearby churches directly
- Ask at community action agencies
- Check with your county social services department
FAQs about Churches that Help with Gas Vouchers
Can I get a gas voucher if I’m not a church member?
Yes! Most church gas voucher programs serve anyone in need regardless of religious affiliation. You don’t need to be a member or attend services to qualify for assistance.
How much gas assistance can I expect to receive?
Most church gas voucher programs provide between $10-$50 per approval. Some programs may offer up to $75 in special circumstances or for specific needs like job interviews or medical appointments.
How often can I apply for gas vouchers?
Most churches limit assistance to once every 3-6 months. Catholic Charities typically allows applications every 6 months, while Westminster Presbyterian Church gives out vouchers every 3 months.
What documentation do I need to bring?
You’ll typically need a valid driver’s license, proof of current auto insurance, vehicle registration in your name, and proof of residence. Some programs also require proof of income or a Social Security card.
Can I get same-day gas assistance?
Some churches offer same-day assistance, but many require appointments. Catholic Charities recommends making appointments at least 24 hours in advance. For emergency situations, calling 2-1-1 might connect you to resources for immediate help.
Do churches help with gas for job interviews?
Yes! Many church gas voucher programs prioritize helping people get to job interviews, as this supports long-term self-sufficiency. Be sure to mention this specific need when applying.
Conclusion
In brief, many churches offer gas voucher programs not just as charity, but as a way to keep communities strong and moving forward. These programs exist because someone cared enough to help.
Now it’s your turn—to ask, to apply, and eventually, to pay it forward when you’re able. A few gallons of gas can mean a lot more than just a full tank for low income families — it can mean hope, dignity, and the ability to keep going.
