Money Assistance Texas

Texas ranks in the bottom half of the states regarding poverty level at 38, according to Poverty USA. The state has 17.5 percent of residents living in poverty and 25 percent of children considered living at or below poverty level. If you are out of a job or your current job isn’t covering all of the bills, you may qualify for assistance through one of the many programs offered across the state.

Assistance with Utilities: If you need help keeping your utilities on, you may qualify for assistance through the LITE-UP Texas Program. The program is designed to help low-income families reduce the cost of their electric bills. If you are already receiving assistance through Medicaid or Snap you automatically qualify for utility assistance as well. Otherwise, a family a four must make less than $29,813 per year to get help from this program. You could also get help through the CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program) which offers help for immediate relief and help with all utilities.

Food Assistance: Residents can receive help with food through the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). The program provides a stipend to be used towards food purchases each month. Texas also provides help through the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program which offers vouchers for specific foods for women with children under the age of 5. Some families may qualify for help with free school breakfasts and lunches. The Catholic Church provides a food pantry that offers food to needy families as well.

Help with a Loan: It is highly recommend using grants and benefits prior to taking on a loan if possible. If however you must have cash to assist with your financial problems, make sure you take on a loan through a reputable lender and try avoiding predatory micro-lending businesses.

 
Rent and Mortgage: A simple way to find help with your mortgage or rent payments is by dialing 211 on your phone. You can get help with information about any financial need, including rent assistance. You may qualify for assistance through Section 8 housing as well. Some organizations that offer rental assistance include the Baptist Community Center (monthly rent only), Barnabas Connection and Rent and Mortgage Assistance. To find a complete list visit the state 211 website.

Medical Assistance: If you need help paying your medical bills, you can apply for assistance through the Texas Medicaid Program which offers free or low-cost insurance to qualifying families. Your children may also qualify for assistance through the CHIP program, which offers low-premium insurance for children under 17. You can also take advantage of the Texas Association of Community Health Centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers which offer medical services at a reduced rate.

Educational Assistance: Some residents may qualify for assistance through the Head Start program which offers preschool services to low-income families. The program is designed to help at-risk students get a head start. You may also qualify for help through literacy and GED programs. Foster children can receive help with their education through the Education and Training Voucher Program. Students can qualify for up to $5,000 per year. Qualifying families can also get help through the Federal Pell Grant Program.

Community Action Centers: Residents can seek help with the Community Action Corporation of South Texas as well as the Texas Community Action Agencies. These programs offer access to programs including senior meals, Head Start, Community Health Centers, Grants and Childcare programs. Learn about national programs here.

Charities: According to Wallet Hub, Texas ranks as the 34^th most giving state in the country. With plenty of resources available, residents can find help through local charities including Catholic Charities, Speedway Children’s Charities, Community Health Charities of Texas and Children’s Charitable Alliance of Texas.