Houston
Financial Assistance Programs
Local resources and programs for financial aid and support for low-income individuals.
Sections
1. Housing Assistance Programs
Housing assistance in Houston is available for individuals and families facing financial difficulties, homelessness, or housing instability.
Key Programs:
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Houston Housing Authority (HHA):
- What it Offers: Subsidized housing through public housing units and the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8).
- Costs: Rent is typically capped at 30% of the householdโs income.
- Eligibility: Based on income (must fall below 50% of the Area Median Income), family size, and citizenship status (some programs require at least one household member to be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant).
- How to Apply: Visit the HHA website (www.housingforhouston.com) to check for open waitlists and submit an application online.
- Local Office: 2640 Fountain View Dr., Houston, TX 77057.
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The Way Home Initiative:
- What it Offers: A collaborative program to end homelessness by providing permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing.
- How to Access: Contact the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston at (713) 739-7514 or visit www.homelesshouston.org.
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BakerRipley Utility Assistance and Rental Assistance:
- What it Offers: Emergency rental and utility assistance for low-income families.
- How to Apply: Call (713) 667-9400 or visit www.bakerripley.org.
2. Food Support Programs
Houston has several food assistance programs to ensure residents have access to nutritious meals.
Key Programs:
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP):
- What it Offers: Monthly benefits to purchase groceries.
- Eligibility: Based on income, household size, and citizenship status. Non-citizens may qualify if they meet specific criteria.
- How to Apply: Apply online at YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2-1-1 for assistance.
- Costs: Free to apply; benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
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Houston Food Bank:
- What it Offers: Free groceries and hot meals through a network of food pantries and community partners.
- How to Access: Use the Food Bankโs locator tool at www.houstonfoodbank.org or call (832) 369-9390.
- Local Office: 535 Portwall St., Houston, TX 77029.
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WIC (Women, Infants, and Children):
- What it Offers: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5.
- Eligibility: Income-based; must be a Texas resident.
- How to Apply: Call (800) 942-3678 or visit texaswic.org.
3. Healthcare Assistance Programs
Healthcare programs in Houston aim to provide affordable or free medical services to low-income individuals and families.
Key Programs:
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Harris Health System (Gold Card):
- What it Offers: Low-cost or free healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and hospital services.
- Eligibility: Must be a Harris County resident and meet income requirements.
- How to Apply: Complete an application online at www.harrishealth.org or visit a Harris Health eligibility center.
- Costs: Sliding scale based on income.
- Local Office: 9250 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77054.
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Legacy Community Health:
- What it Offers: Comprehensive healthcare services, including primary care, mental health, and HIV/AIDS care.
- Eligibility: Open to all, regardless of income or immigration status.
- How to Access: Call (832) 548-5000 or visit www.legacycommunityhealth.org.
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CHIP and Medicaid:
- What it Offers: Free or low-cost health insurance for children and low-income families.
- Eligibility: Income-based; must be a Texas resident.
- How to Apply: Apply online at YourTexasBenefits.com.
4. Utility Assistance Programs
Utility assistance programs help residents pay for electricity, water, and gas bills.
Key Programs:
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Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP):
- What it Offers: Financial assistance for electricity and gas bills.
- Eligibility: Income-based; priority is given to households with elderly, disabled, or young children.
- How to Apply: Contact BakerRipley at (713) 590-2327 or visit www.bakerripley.org.
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Houston Water Assistance Program:
- What it Offers: Discounts on water bills for low-income residents.
- Eligibility: Must meet income requirements and be a City of Houston water customer.
- How to Apply: Call (832) 395-2455 or visit www.houstonwater.org.
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TXU Energy Aid Program:
- What it Offers: Assistance with electricity bills for TXU customers.
- How to Access: Call (800) 242-9113 or visit www.txu.com.
5. Additional Resources
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United Way of Greater Houston:
- What it Offers: A referral service connecting residents to local assistance programs for housing, food, healthcare, and more.
- How to Access: Dial 2-1-1 or visit www.unitedwayhouston.org.
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Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston:
- What it Offers: Emergency financial assistance, food, and housing support.
- How to Access: Call (713) 526-4611 or visit www.catholiccharities.org.
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Neighborhood Centers Inc. (BakerRipley):
- What it Offers: A wide range of services, including financial assistance, job training, and immigration support.
- How to Access: Call (713) 667-9400 or visit www.bakerripley.org.
Tips for Applying to Assistance Programs
- Gather Documentation: Most programs require proof of income, residency, and identification. Prepare documents such as pay stubs, utility bills, and government-issued IDs.
- Check Deadlines: Some programs have limited funding and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Seek Help: If youโre unsure about eligibility or the application process, contact 2-1-1 Texas for guidance.
- Be Persistent: Many programs have long waitlists, so follow up regularly on your application status.
By utilizing these resources, you can access the financial assistance you need in Houston. Let me know if you need further clarification or help with any specific program!