Help for single moms in Texas

If you’re a single mom in Texas struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with:

Emergency cash
Housing
Transportation
Electric bills
Medical and dental care
Food
Child care
Education
Employment
Charity organizations

We also put together resources specifically for:

Single moms in Houston
Single moms in San Antonio
Single moms in Dallas
Single moms in Austin

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached.

Qualifications are simple:

1. You're a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Many of the programs on this list determine eligibility as a percentage of the federal poverty level (FPL). These are the 2024 federal poverty guidelines:

Number of people in family/household	Annual income
1	$15,060
2	$20,440
3	$25,820
4	$31,200
5	$36,580
6	$41,960
7	$47,340
8	$52,720

* For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,380 for each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Texas

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families in Texas

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program offers monthly cash payments to help eligible Texas families pay for:

Food
Clothing
Housing
Utilities
Furniture
Transportation
Phone
Laundry
Supplies for the home
Medical supplies not paid for by Medicaid
Other basic needs

The monthly amounts given for TANF in Texas vary by family size and the number of parents/caretakers in the home. The family size refers to the number of people qualifying for TANF whose income is counted to calculate TANF payments, such as an eligible child or an eligible child and parent. In child-only cases, only the eligible children are counted in the family size:

Family Size	Child-Only Cases	Home with 1 Parent or Caretaker	Home with 2 Parents or Caretakers
1	$112	$136	N/A
2	$161	$283	$216
3	$226	$327	$358
4	$269	$393	$402
5	$345	$436	$466

Families can also receive a one-time TANF payment of $1,000 in the event of a crisis such as:

Loss of a job
Loss of financial support for a child (child support, rental assistance, etc.)
Not being able to find a job after graduating from a university, college, junior college or technical training school
Not being able to get a job because vehicle is not working
Loss of home
Medical emergency

This payment can only be given once in a 12-month period to those who qualify. Families who receive monthly TANF benefits do not qualify.

Relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers) taking care of a child who receives TANF benefits can also receive a once-in-a-lifetime $1,000 payment if they are not receiving monthly TANF themselves, are at least 25 years old, and don’t have a lot of money or a way to get more money.

Qualifications:

For monthly TANF benefits:

Must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
Permanent Texas resident
Have at least one child 18 or younger living in the home
Parents or caretakers must be willing to search for work, take parenting classes, and avoid abusing drugs and alcohol
TANF-eligible children must be attending school and receive mandated vaccinations
A parent or blood relative of the child must be managing the household

Additionally, children may qualify for child-only TANF benefits in certain circumstances when a parent or caregiver is not eligible for the program for a reason other than income. For instance, parents receiving Supplemental Security Income or immigrant parents who are ineligible for the program will not affect their child’s ability to receive TANF.

These are the maximum monthly income limits to qualify for TANF in Texas, though they note that some people might be able to get benefits with higher incomes on a case-by-case basis:

Family Size	Child-Only Cases	Home with 1 Parent or Caretaker	Home with 2 Parents or Caretakers
1	$64	$78	N/A
2	$92	$163	$125
3	$130	$188	$206
4	$154	$226	$231
5	$198	$251	$268

Relatives receiving a one-time TANF payment of $1,000 should meet these income limits:

Family Size	Monthly Income Limit
1	$2,265
2	$3,052
3	$3,839
4	$4,625
5	$5,412

How to get help:

Apply online on YourTexasBenefits.com
Call Texas Health and Human Services at 512-424-6500
Apply in person at your local Texas Health and Human Services office

More emergency cash help in Texas:

Single moms in Texas can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash:

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly:

Sell old clothes, toys, and baby supplies you no longer need — check out this post on things to sell around your house
Get your tax refund early
Ask for a raise at work
Use cash-back apps

Housing help for single moms in Texas

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help:

Rental assistance in Texas

There are multiple programs in Texas to help renters find housing and pay their rent:

Section 811 Project Rental Assistance Program

Section 811 helps low-income individuals with a disability find affordable, subsidized housing. The program also connects members to relevant community services and agencies. Eligible individuals may have dependent children in the home.

Qualifications:

To qualify for Section 811, a household must have at least one eligible household member with a disability over age 18 and under 62. This person may or may not be the main provider of the household. Recipients must live in one of the following areas of Texas:

Austin-Round Rock
Brownsville-Harlingen
Corpus Christi
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington
El Paso
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land
McAllen-Edinburg-Mission
San Antonio-New Braunfels

Households also must meet the following income limits to qualify:

How to get help:

Download an application packet from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to submit to an agent. You’ll need an agent’s referral to qualify for the program.

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides vouchers to help low-income individuals and families pay rent.

Qualifications:

HUD determines how much a household gets using their income and family size. Visit the HUD website to find income limits for your Texas county.

How to get help:

Contact a referral agent in your county to check for availability.

Mortgage assistance in Texas

If you need help buying a home in Texas, these programs can help:

Texas Homeowner Assistance (TXHAF)

The Texas Homeowner Assistance program was introduced to assist families financially impacted by COVID-19. The program helps homeowners pay up to three months of mortgage or related housing payments and up to three months of utility payments.

TXHAF allows for up to $65,000 in funds per eligible household, with a maximum of $10,000 for utility assistance and up to $25,000 for property charges, like property taxes or homeowners insurance.

Qualifications:

Texas homeowners can qualify for Texas Homeowner Assistance if they:

Occupy their home as their primary residence
Have an income at or below 100% of AMI or the median national income
Were financially impacted by the pandemic
Have trouble making payments on their mortgage, property insurance, utilities, or other housing-related expenses

How to get help:

Check today's mortgage loan rates >>

Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC)

TSAHC helps Texas residents purchase homes by providing fixed-rate home loans and down payment assistance to qualifying individuals.

For mortgage loans, you’ll apply directly through an approved lender.

Down payment assistance can be given as a grant that doesn’t have to be repaid, or a deferred, forgivable second lien loan that only has to be repaid if you sell or refinance within three years. Homebuyers choosing the loan option can benefit from lower interest rates and, therefore, a lower monthly mortgage payment.

Qualifications:

Homebuyers must be eligible for a TSAHC mortgage loan program to receive down payment assistance. TSAHC offers two loan programs:

Homes for Texas Heroes Program: Individuals in specific community service professions qualify for this program:

Full-time public school educators (teachers, teacher aides, school librarians, school counselors, and school nurses)
Police officers and public security officers
Firefighters and EMS personnel
Veterans or active military
Correction officers and juvenile corrections officers
Nursing faculty and allied health faculty

Candidates need a minimum credit score of 620 and must meet the program’s income requirements. Learn more about whether you qualify for a VA loan.

Home Sweet Texas Home Loan Program: Candidates for this program also need a minimum 620 credit score and income within the program’s limits (same as above). Prospective Texas homeowners who do not have a “hero” profession necessary to qualify for the Homes for Texas Heroes Program should apply for this program.

How to get help:

Before applying, you can take an eligibility quiz to find out if you qualify. If you do, the website will provide contact information for participating lenders.

Homeless assistance in Texas

The following programs help homeless

Permanent Supportive Housing Program

The Permanent Supportive Housing Program helps people who are currently homeless or who may become homeless find affordable permanent housing. The program can also assist with job readiness and independent living skills to prevent homelessness in the future.

Qualifications:

A Texas HHS-approved local mental health authority or behavioral health authority determines individual eligibility.

How to get help:

Search for your local mental health or behavioral health authority to find out if you qualify. A representative can help you submit your application.

Supportive Housing Rental Assistance Program

Similar to the Permanent Supportive Housing Program, this program helps individuals with temporary house-related funds, such as utilities and rent payments. It is for people who are already homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Qualifications:

Texas residents must be eligible for mental health services with their local mental health or behavioral services authority. Some applicants may also need to apply for Section 8.

How to get help:

Speak to your mental health or behavioral services authority representative about applying or locate your local agency to determine your eligibility.

More housing help:

Transportation help for low-income families in Texas

Texas provides several transportation resources that eligible single moms can use for free or low-cost rides to work, school, or doctor’s appointments.

Free and low-cost transportation

Learn more about the following free and low-cost transportation programs in Texas:

Medical Transportation Program

Medicaid recipients in Texas may qualify for free nonemergency medical transportation for themselves and their children by taxi, bus, or public transportation. Participants can call for a ride at least two business days before their appointment.

The program can also pay for gas to and from medical appointments and meals and lodging needed for children’s appointments.

Qualifications:

Enrolled in Medicaid, Children with Special Health Care Needs, or Transportation for Indigent Cancer Patients
Qualifying medical appointment

How to get help:

Contact the transportation number for your health plan

Texas public transit

Texas has 76 public transit agencies serving its metropolitan, urban, and rural areas. Listed below are those with free and/or low-cost fares:

B Metro

Covers: Brownsville
Offers: $1 general fare, $0.50 fare for people with disabilities, $0.75 fare for students, children under 6 ride free

Beaumont Transit

Covers: Beaumont
Offers: $0.75 fare for children 6-18, free fare for children five and under

CityLink

Covers: Abilene
Offers: On-demand ride scheduling, free connecting transfers, $1 fare for youths age 5-18, free fare for children 4 and under

Concho Valley Transit

Covers: Tom Green County
Offers: Free Medicaid rides, children under 6 ride free, adults with disabilities can get reduced fare for $0.50

Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority

Covers: Nueces County, San Patricio County
Offers: $0.75 single-way fare, $1.75 day passes, $0.10 reduced fare for people with disabilities during off-peak hours or $0.25 for peak hours, free rides for students from pre-K to 12th grade

Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

Covers: Dallas and its 12 surrounding cities
Offers: Half-price fares ($1.25 for single ride or $3 day passes) for youth, seniors, and people with disabilities

Gulf Coast Transit District

Covers: Brazoria County, Galveston County
Offers: $1 one-way fare, $0.50 fare for students

El Aguila Rural Transit System

Covers: Webb County
Offers: $1 one-way fares, $0.50 fares for students

El Metro Transit

Covers: Webb County
Offers: Children under 5 ride free, $0.75 fare for children 5-11

EZ-Rider

Covers: Ector County, Midland County
Offers: $1 fare for youth 6-18 and students with ID, seniors ride for $0.60, and free rides for children 5 and under

Falls Ride

Covers: Wichita Falls
Offers: Free rides for children under 7, $0.75 fares for children 7-18, seniors 65 and over, Medicaid card holders, and adults with disabilities

Island Transit

Covers: Galveston
Offers: One-way reduced fares of $0.50 rides for students, seniors, disabled persons, and Medicaid card holders, and children under 6 ride free with an adult

Longview Transit

Covers: Longview
Offers: $3 all-day passes, reduced fares of $0.65 fare for children 6-14 and $0.60 for seniors, disabled persons and Medicare recipients, and children 5 and under ride free

Metropolitan Transit Authority

Covers: Harris County
Offers: Free fares for children 5 and under riding with an adult and reduced fares for seniors 70 and over veterans, jurors, and METROLift riders

Panhandle Transportation

Covers: The counties of Armstrong, Briscoe, Carson, Castro, Childress, Collingsworth, Dallam, Deaf Smith, Donley, Gray, Hall, Hansford, Hartley, Hemphill, Hutchinson, Lipscomb, Moore, Ochiltree, Oldham, Parmer, Potter, Randall, Roberts, Sherman, Swisher, and Wheeler
Offers: Free pre-scheduled rides based on availability for medical appointments, recreation, shopping, and social services

Port Arthur Transit

Covers: Port Arthur
Offers: Free rides for children 5 and under, $0.75 fare for K-12 students, seniors, disabled persons and Medicare card holders

Sun Metro

Covers: El Paso
Offers: Free rides for children 5 and under, $0.50 fare for seniors and disabled persons, and $1 fare for students and children 6-18

The Hop

Covers: Bell County, Coryell County
Offers: One-way rides for $1, and monthly passes for $25

Tyler Transit

Covers: Tyler
Offers: $1 fares for riders 12 and up, $0.50 fares for children 6-11 and people with disabilities, free rides for children 5 and under

Valley Metro

Covers: Lower Rio Grande Valley
Offers: $1 fares for students, free rides for children 7 and under

Via Metropolitan Transit

Covers: Bexar County
Offers: Reduced fares ($0.65) for elementary, middle, and high school students and people with disabilities, free rides for children 4 and under, free transfers, monthly passes as low as $19

Texas transportation providers

The Texas Department of Transportation maintains lists of all Texas transit agencies:

Vehicle donation and car repair help in Texas

Look to these resources if you need a vehicle or assistance getting your vehicle repaired in Texas:

God’s Garage

God’s Garage combines ministry with charity by gifting women in need donated vehicles or repairing their vehicles for free. Many of the women God’s Garage helps are single moms who are struggling financially.

Qualifications:

Single mom, widow, or wife of a deployed military member
Valid driver’s license
Do not own a vehicle title if applying for a donated car
Own the title to a vehicle if applying for repairs

How to get help:

Fill out the online application
Fill out the online contact form

Autocare Haven

Autocare Haven is a charity operated by donation that offers free auto repair to single parents and low-income families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Anyone receiving assistance can have their car repaired through a vetted mechanic in Autocare Haven’s network.

Qualifications:

Proof of auto insurance
Valid driver’s license
Verifiable income
Live in Dallas County, Denton County, Collin County, Tarrant County, or Rockwall County

How to get help:

Apply online

Buying a car as a single mom

If you're ready to buy a car, but you have low or no credit, Auto Loan Express is a quality lender:

Better Business Bureau rating of A+
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Electric bill assistance in Texas

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Texas, check out the following programs:

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) in Texas

CEAP is Texas’s version of LIHEAP, a federal program that helps eligible households pay their heating and cooling bills. The program pays funds directly to the household’s energy company to help with electric bills in Texas.

Qualifications:

Resident of Texas
Meet the income threshold for the program:

Family Size	150% of FPL
1	$21,8870
2	$29,580
3	$37,290
4	$45,000
5	$52,710
6	$60,420
7	$68,130
8	$75,840
More than 8 people	Add $7,710 for each additional person

How to get help:

Visit the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs website. Click ‘Utility Bill Payment Help.’ Fill out your city or county, and click ‘Find Help’ to locate your nearest agency to apply. Or, call 2-1-1 Texas at 877-541-7905.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Texas

Texas WAP helps low-income families reduce their energy bills by weatherizing their homes. The program can provide electric bill assistance in Texas by providing services like caulking, weather-stripping, replacing worn-out heating units, and completing energy audits.

Qualifications:

Resident of Texas
Meet current income guidelines based on family size:

Family Size	100% of FPL	150% of FPL	200% of FPL
1	$14,580	$21,870	$29,160
2	$19,720	$29,580	$39,440
3	$24,860	$37,290	$49,720
4	$30,000	$45,000	$60,000
5	$35,140	$52,710	$70,280
6	$40,280	$60,420	$80,560
7	$45,420	$68,130	$90,840
8	$50,560	$75,840	$101,120
Families with more than 8 persons	Add $5,140 for each additional person	Add $7,710 for each additional person	Add $10,280 for each additional person

How to get help:

Visit the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs website. Select ‘Weatherization’ and fill out your city or county to find your local agency for application assistance. You can also dial 2-1-1 or call 877-541-7905.

More electric bill help:

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance and dental help for single moms in Texas

Single moms in Texas may qualify for assistance with medical and dental care through the following programs:

Title V Maternal and Child Health Fee-for-Service Program

Women who do not qualify for Medicaid and other low-cost medical services may get help from this program for prenatal health and dental services. Qualifying children can also receive affordable child health and dental services.

Qualifications:

Texas resident
Must not be eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or other healthcare plans
Women must be carrying a pregnancy or be no more than three months postpartum
Youth must be 21 or younger
Income should be at or below 185% of FPL

How to get help:

Call 800-222-3986
Visit the 2-1-1 Texas website or call 877-541-7905

Dental Hygiene Clinics and Schools

Some dental hygiene clinics and schools in Texas offer free or low-cost dental care to the public, such as the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston and the Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas.

Qualifications:

Each individual clinic or school sets its own eligibility requirements.

How to get help:

Contact your nearest Texas dental clinic or school for information.

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) in Texas

HRSA, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, funds health centers that provide free or subsidized health and dental care to low-income people and those otherwise unable to access quality health care, like people living in rural areas.

HRSA also offers a 24/7 free and confidential mental health hotline for pregnant and new moms. Dial 833-943-5746 (833-9-HELP4MOMS) if you are struggling.

Qualifications:

Each health center sets its own eligibility criteria for free or reduced-cost care.

How to get help:

Find an HRSA health center in Texas by typing in your address on HRSA’s search tool.

Texas Medicaid

Medicaid is one of many health care-related Texas programs for low-income families, providing medical coverage and services for eligible adults and children. The state offers a few variations of its Medicaid program for parents and families:

Children’s Medicaid – Covers well-child visits, routine immunizations, vision and hearing care, and other typical health services for children, including dentist visits
Health Insurance Premium Payment Program – Pays premiums for a job-related health insurance plan for families with at least one person on Medicaid
Medicaid for Parents and Caretakers – Allows low-income parents or caretakers who care for a child on Medicaid to receive Medicaid benefits
Women-Focused Medicaid – Covers services for women, such as prenatal care, cervical screenings, and care for women with breast or cervical cancer

Qualifications:

Resident of Texas
Meet income and eligibility requirements, which vary by program

How to get help:

Apply for benefits or find a local office on the Your Texas Benefits website, or call 2-1-1.

Texas Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

Texas has its own version of the national CHIP program, which provides affordable health coverage for children in families with income higher than the typical Medicaid threshold. CHIP covers the same services as Medicaid, including dental visits, routine health care, and services for children with disabilities or special needs.

Families receiving CHIP do not pay premiums for services.

Qualifications:

U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
Texas resident
Child must be 18 or younger, though some children with disabilities may qualify up to age 20
Meet income guidelines based on family size:

Family Size (including adults and children)	Monthly Family Income
1	$1,510
2	$2,034
3	$2,559
4	$3,083
5	$3,607
6	$4,132
7	$4,656
8	$5,180
Each additional person	$525

How to get help:

Apply for CHIP or find a local office on the Your Texas Benefits website, or call 2-1-1.

Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies

Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies offers free resources for parents or soon-to-be parents to prevent preterm births and help babies have a healthy first year. The program connects parents to community education and support programs, like breastfeeding support services and affordable health care for babies.

Qualifications:

Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies makes resources available for parents, employers, health care providers, and agencies. Each program has its own process to determine eligibility.

How to get help:

Search for programs of interest on the Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies website.

More medical/dental help:

Food help for low-income families in Texas

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Previously known as food stamps, USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) gives eligible Texas families funds to buy food. The benefits reload to an issued Lone Star Card each month for families to buy fresh produce, meat, pantry items, and other eligible food and drinks from brick-and-mortar or online stores accepting SNAP benefits.

SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy alcohol, tobacco, or non-food items.

Qualifications:

Texas parents qualify if they have eligible children in the home and meet the income guidelines shown below. Qualifying individuals 16 and older may be required to have a job or be looking for work to maintain benefits.

Family Size	Maximum Monthly Income
1	$1,869
2	$2,518
3	$3,167
4	$3,816
5	$4,465
Each additional person	$649

How to get help:

Apply for benefits on the Your Texas Benefits website or call 2-1-1 for assistance.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Texas

Texas WIC provides education and resources for pregnant women and women with young children. Through the program, moms can receive breastfeeding support, nutrition advice, and healthy foods for themselves and their babies or children through age 5.

Qualifications:

Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a child younger than 5 and qualify based on income may be eligible for WIC. Women can qualify for the program if they or their children already qualify for Medicaid, TANF, or SNAP benefits. More on the income guidelines for WIC.

How to get help:

Apply on the Texas WIC website, call 800-942-3678, or use the website to find a local WIC office.

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program

Eligible public school children can receive free or reduced-price nutritious lunches and breakfasts at their schools through these programs. Meals must meet federal guidelines for nutritional value.

Texas schools are required to participate in the School Breakfast Program if at least 10% of their students qualify for these affordable meal programs based on income.

Qualifications:

Eligible households have income within the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines.

How to get help:

Contact your child’s school for more information or call 877-TEX-MEAL.

Texas Summer Meal Program

The Texas Department of Agriculture provides free, nutritious meals to children 18 and younger or children with disabilities up to age 21 when they’re on summer break from school.

Qualifications:

Family income must meet the following guidelines:

How to get help:

Call 877-TEX-MEAL to find a Summer Meal Program near you.

Texas food banks

Food banks distribute food to Texas families in need.

Qualifications:

Each food bank sets its own eligibility requirements.

How to get help:

Visit the Texas Health and Human Services website to find a local food bank.

More food help:

Child care help for low-income families in Texas

There are multiple federally funded education programs and resources in Texas:

Texas Head Start and Early Head Start

Head Start provides free preschool for children ages 3 to 5 from families meeting income guidelines. Pregnant women and families with children under 3 can receive services for their children from Early Head Start in Texas.

Qualifications:

Children from birth to 5
Meet federal poverty guidelines
Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, etc.) are eligible regardless of income
Some programs accept kids with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines
Pregnant women can also receive prenatal and postpartum information, education, and services through Early Head Start

How to apply:

Contact your local Head Start or Early Head Start to apply
Call 866-763-6481

Texas Child Care Solutions

Texas Child Care Solutions connects parents with resources to help them afford child care. Parents can use the website to find quality child care providers, browse educational information, and apply for financial help for child care.

Qualifications:

Be on or transitioning from public assistance, or
Have or need protective services
Have a child under 13
Meet income requirements, which vary by location

How to get help:

Contact your local Workforce Solutions Office.

More child care help

Education help for single moms in Texas

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education, here are some helpful resources:

Get a GED in Texas

Texas residents who are 18 or older can pursue a GED in place of a high school diploma. Some 16 and 17-year-olds may also qualify if they have permission from a parent or guardian or are in the care of the state.

The complete Texas GED test costs $145 for a computer-based exam or $169 with an online proctor. The test is broken into reasoning through language arts, math, science, and social studies. Test-takers must score at least 145 on each subject to pass.

Grants and scholarships in Texas

The Texas Comptroller oversees Texas finances, like budgeting and taxes. Learners can find state-specific grants and scholarships through its website to help pay for college.

Prospective students can also fill out the FAFSA for federal financial aid and check with their school’s financial aid office for information on school-sponsored grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.

More education help:

Employment help for single moms in Texas

Workforce programs in Texas provide training and assist with employment:

Texas Workforce Commission Unemployment Benefit Services

Unemployment benefits serve Texas residents who have become unemployed or laid off for circumstances outside of their control.

Qualifications:

Texas resident
Unemployed, laid off, or had hours reduced

Earned and worked a minimum amount during a specific period
Able and willing to continue looking for suitable employment

How to get help:

Apply through the Texas Workforce Commission website.

American Job Centers in Texas

The American Job Center Network is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. The agency helps people in Texas and across the country find jobs and develop their skills through job training and career counseling.

How to get help:

Search for a location on the American Job Center website
Call 877-872-5627
Email [email protected]

More employment help:

Charity organizations in Texas

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Texas that offer support to single moms:

Gracewood

Gracewood is a charity that supports single moms and their children who find themselves in a crisis situation. The charity offers residential and counseling services to help women get back on their feet.

Qualifications:

Must be 18 or older and have at least one child under 18 in their full-time care
Not be involved in a CPS case
No criminal history
Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation
Current job or be able to work or attend school

How to get help:

Submit an application on Gracewood’s website or call 713-988-9757.

The Salvation Army of Texas

The Salvation Army has locations across the United States, including Texas. The charity organization helps local communities and families with multiple kinds of support, including:

Disaster relief
Shelter for domestic abuse situations
Rent
Utility payments
Holiday gift help
Food
Life skills
Religious or spiritual support
Job training
After-school programs

Qualifications:

Each Salvation Army location in Texas has its own services and determines eligibility for each of its services and programs.

How to get help:

Visit the Salvation Army website to find your local chapter.

Catholic Charities of Texas

Catholic Charities is a faith-based charity that helps individuals and families in need across Texas and in other states. The organization provides:

Counseling
Financial services
Immigration services
Disaster response services

Qualifications:

Eligibility varies for each Catholic Charities office.

How to get help:

Visit the Catholic Charities website of the branch closest to you to find contact information:

United Way of Texas

The United Way of Texas connects people in need with local resources like:

Food
Shelter
Child care services
Housing
Health care
Support groups

How to get help:

211.org
Dial 211

Help for single moms in Houston, Texas

Get help from the following resources geared toward single moms in Houston, Texas:

Emergency cash assistance in Houston

If you’re in need of cash assistance in Houston to pay for your housing, clothing, or food, these resources can help:

Harris County Recovery Assistance

The Memorial Assistance Ministries of Houston offers a $1,500 one-time payment to families experiencing a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The money can be used to pay rent, utilities, or other basic necessities.

Qualifications:

Harris County
At least 18 years old
Financial hardship resulting from the pandemic
Enrolled in public assistance program or income at or below 60% of area median income
U.S. citizen

How to get help:

Call 281-982-4357
[email protected]

Prince of Peace (POP) Houston’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program

POP Houston provides cash assistance to help pay for housing or utilities for families experiencing financial hardship. Applicants must complete an interview before receiving assistance.

Qualifications:

Live in one of these zip codes: 77070, 77069, 77066, and 77064
Financial hardship due to unexpected emergency

How to get help:

Call 281-982-4357
[email protected]

Housing help in Houston

Get help from the following housing-related programs in Houston, Texas:

Harris County Community Services Department Rental Assistance

Harris County residents who have experienced a temporary inability to pay their rent or who have fallen behind on their rent may qualify for a one-time rental assistance payment. Payment amounts vary by household.

Qualifications:

Valid state or federal ID and social security card
Income at or below 80% of Harris County median income
Live in Harris County
Proof of income
Head of household
Current lease or mortgage
Proof of financial need

How to get help:

Call 713-578-2000

Houston Homebuyer Assistance

Houston offers homeownership financial assistance of up to $50,000 to first-time homebuyers. The assistance is in the form of a no-interest loan that’s forgiven after five years as long as the homeowner remains in the home for the full five years. Applicants must complete a homebuyer education class through a HUD-approved agency.

Qualifications:

First-time homebuyer
Home with Houston property taxes
Income at or below 80% of area median income

How to get help:

Connect with a partnered lender
Call 832-394-6200

Downpayment Assistance Program (DAP)

DAP provides up to $23,800 for down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers in Harris County.

Qualifications:

First-time homebuyer
Meet income limits
Harris County home
Maximum purchase price of $261,000 for an existing home or $268,000 for new construction
Live in home for five years for awards up to $14,999, or 10 years for higher awards
Minimum credit score of 580

How to get help:

Call 713-578-2000

Medical and dental care help in Houston

Find free dental care in Houston through the following program:

Houston Health Department Dental Services

The Houston Health Department provides basic and preventative dental services to children and adults from six months old to 21 years old. The program helps families schedule appointments with partnered dental clinics and provides educational resources to maintain healthy teeth.

Qualifications:

Have Medicaid, CHIP, or no dental insurance
Six months through 21 years old

How to get help:

Call 832-393-5427

Food help in Houston

These resources can provide you and your family with food in Houston, Texas:

Houston Food Bank

Houston Food Bank provides several programs for families in Houston to get nutritious ingredients and meals:

Backpack Buddy: This program brings sacks of food to participating schools in the Houston area, allowing eligible children to take home food for the weekend.
Food Scholarship: Eligible families can get a food “scholarship” to get up to 60 pounds of food twice a month.
Kids Cafe: Kids Cafe provides healthy snacks and meals for free to low-income children at partnered community sites.
School Market: School Market works with area middle and high schools to teach students how to eat and serve nutritious food.
Curbside Food Pickup: Families can visit the Community Resource Center for a curbside food pickup to get the food they need.

Qualifications:

Varies by program

How to get help:

Call 713-223-3700

West Houston Assistance Ministries

West Houston Assistance Ministries has a food pantry with food distribution once a week for families in need. Families can use the drive-through service or visit a monthly food fair where the first 200 families receive free food.

Qualifications:

Customers must be registered for assistance

How to get help:

Register for assistance
Call 713-780-2727

Employment help in Houston

Look to these resources if you need help finding a job or training for a career in Houston, Texas:

Turnaround Houston!

Turnaround Houston! is a free resource for Houston workers offering job training, counseling, social services, and tattoo removal to prepare people to work. The program also hosts job fairs with top companies in Houston.

How to get help:

Visit Turnaround Houston! for information about upcoming job fairs

SERJobs

SERJobs is a workforce training center with a Houston location providing free webinars, workshops, apprenticeships, and job search assistance to workers.

How to get help:

Call 713-773-6000
Email [email protected]

Transportation help in Houston

This charity transportation program assists people in Houston, Texas:

Houston Ground Angels

Houston Ground Angels is a volunteer transportation service that provides free rides to people in Houston to get back and forth to their medical appointments.

How to get help:

Request a ride online
Text 832-301-2816

Charity organizations in Houston

These charities help single moms in Houston, Texas:

Gracewood

Gracewood provides life skills training, shelter, clothing, food, and parenting support to single moms and their children who are facing homelessness.

Qualifications:

At least 18 years old
At least one child under 18
Not pregnant
No criminal history or CPS cases
Valid driver’s license
Able to work or attend school

How to get help:

Apply online
Call 713-988-9757
Email [email protected]

RaiseUp Families

RaiseUp Families offers financial assistance for families to meet their basic expenses, like rent and food, while attending school or getting on their feet financially. The HandUp program lasts nine months, providing guidance, training, and support through an individualized care plan. Then, families can participate in an after-care program for up to two years to help them maintain a healthy financial status through support groups and financial education.

Qualifications:

Difficulty paying rent or basic necessities
Legally able to work
No drug or alcohol abuse or domestic violence
Legal guardian of a child
Live in Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, or Harris County

How to get help:

Fill out the pre-screening form

Mother’s Help Foundation

Mother’s Help Foundation is dedicated to helping single moms in Houston get the services and assistance they need for their families through the following:

Diaper and wipes drives
Giveaways of baby products
Donation events
Shared living affordable homes with all-inclusive rent and counseling services

Qualifications for housing help:

Low income
On the verge of homelessness or in a domestic violence situation

How to get help:

Call 832-865-2363
Email [email protected]

Help for single moms in San Antonio, Texas

Browse the following resources available for single moms in San Antonio, Texas:

Emergency cash assistance in San Antonio

The following program helps needy families in San Antonio, Texas, with emergency cash and other services:

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Texas Council

This organization helps families in the San Antonio area who have low income and are at risk of becoming homeless. In addition to providing food, clothing, and basic necessities, the organization helps the neediest families with emergency cash assistance based on their needs. Families with children under five have priority.

Qualifications:

Income at or below 150% of the FPL

How to get help:

Call 210-225-7837

Housing help in San Antonio

Consider the following resources if you need help buying or repairing your home in San Antonio:

Green and Healthy Homes

Green and Healthy Homes assists parents who are homeowners in San Antonio with energy-efficient improvements and repairs on their homes. The program pays for eligible upgrades.

Qualifications:

Own a home in San Antonio built before 1978
At least one child under 5
Clear property title
Current with property taxes
Income at or below 80% of area median income

How to get help:

Submit an application
Call 210-207-6000

Opportunity Home

Opportunity Home offers affordable two or three-bedroom homes to middle-income families in San Antonio who are first-time homebuyers.

Qualifications:

First-time homebuyer
Primary residence
Income at or below 60-80% of area median income
Resident of Bexar County

How to get help:

Contact a participating lender

Homeownership Incentive Programs (HIPs)

San Antonio’s HIP programs help homebuyers in San Antonio with the purchase price of their homes.

HIP 80 is for lower-income individuals and families, with a two-person household making no more than $56,200. The program pays up to $30,000 toward the down payment of an existing home costing $244,000 or less or a new home purchased for $257,000 or less.

HIP 120 allows higher income, with the max income for a two-person household set at $84,300. This program pays up to $15,000 for the down payment on a $283,200 or less existing home or a $301,200 new construction home.

Qualifications:

Purchase a home in San Antonio
Meet income guidelines
Put at least $500 down
Qualify for a mortgage through a participating lender

How to get help:

Fill out the online contact form
Work with a participating lender to start the process

Electric bill help in San Antonio

The program below can help you pay for your electric bill in San Antonio, Texas:

Residential Energy Assistance Partnership (REAP)

REAP pays eligible households up to $400 per year, based on their income, to help pay their utility bills. Households can apply for assistance twice per year.

Qualifications:

Income at or below 125% of FPL
Live in San Antonio or Bexar County
Are 60 and over, disabled, require equipment for critical care, or have at least one child under 16 years old living at home

How to get help:

Call 210-207-7830 if you live in San Antonio
Call 210-335-3666 if you live in Bexar County

Medical and dental care help in San Antonio

If you’re in need of affordable medical or dental care, get help from the following resources:

UT Health Student Run Clinic

The UT Health Student Run Clinic is a teaching clinic for medical students in which students learn while providing quality medical care for adults and children. Students visit clinics around the San Antonio area to provide basic medical, dental, and dermatological care.

Qualifications:

Receive services from a participating clinic

How to get help:

Contact your participating clinic
Call 210-567-0795

El Bari Community Health Center

El Bari Community Health Center provides free primary care services for adults, including chronic disease management and specialist referrals.

Qualifications:

No medical insurance
Have low income

How to get help:

Call 210-888-0671

San Antonio Christian Dental Clinic

This dental clinic operates from donations to offer free dental services for adults, like exams, fillings, cleanings, and extractions.

Qualifications:

At least 18 years old
Bexar County resident
Income at or below 100% of FPL

How to get help:

Call 210-220-2300

Food help in San Antonio

This resource helps San Antonio residents get the food they need for their families:

San Antonio Food Bank

The San Antonio Food Bank hosts food distributions for needy families, has a mobile food unit to bring food to food deserts, provides nutrition education for healthier meals, and operates farmers markets for low-cost, fresh food. The food bank also provides job training to help community members support themselves financially.

Children can also benefit from the food bank’s programs, like its Back Pack Program, which sends at-risk youth home with fresh food on weekends and holidays, and the Summer Food Service program which offers fresh meals to children throughout the summer break.

Qualifications:

Varies by program

How to get help:

Call 210-431-8326

Child care help in San Antonio

These programs offer financial assistance for child care in San Antonio:

Our City Cares

Our City Cares is an emergency child care program in San Antonio for parents who are facing an emergency, like becoming the sudden guardian for a child or being at risk for homelessness. The program pays for temporary child care throughout the situation.

Qualifications:

Live in San Antonio
Qualifying emergency

How to get help:

210-230-6343

Child Care Subsidy

San Antonio’s Child Care Services Division manages subsidies to help Bexar County and surrounding area residents pay for child care. Subsidies are based on a sliding scale according to income. For example, a single mom with one child making $2,000 a month would pay $75 a month for her child’s daycare.

Qualifications:

Income at or below 85% of state median income
Live in Bexar County or a surrounding area
Child under 13
Single parent who is working or attending school

How to get help:

Call 210-230-6300

Education help in San Antonio

If you’re enrolled in or interested in attending college but need financial help, look to the following resources in San Antonio:

San Antonio Education Partnership (SAEP)

SAEP awards a scholarship to San Antonio college students who attend a participating school:

Northwest Vista College
Palo Alto College
St. Philip's College
San Antonio College
Texas A&M University at San Antonio
University of Texas at San Antonio
UT Health Science Center at San Antonio
Our Lady of the Lake University
St. Mary's University
Trinity University
University of the Incarnate Word

The scholarship is $300/semester for students attending a community college, $425/semester for a public university, and $750/semester for a private university.

Qualifications:

Demonstrate a financial need via the FAFSA
Enrolled in a participating college full-time
95% attendance rate
Overall 80 grade average
Graduate from participating high school

How to get help:

Call 210-207-8198

UTSA Bold Promise

The University of Texas at San Antonio provides four years of tuition-free schooling to qualifying first-time college attendees. The tuition assistance covers tuition and mandatory fees.

Qualifications:

Live in Texas
Family income up to $70,000
Graduated in top 25% of high school class
Enroll full-time
Admitted to UTSA

How to get help:

Apply and get admitted to UTSA
Call 210-458-8000
Email [email protected]

Employment help in San Antonio

These resources can assist you in finding work or brushing up your skills for a new career in San Antonio, Texas:

Ready to Work San Antonio

This program is funded by the San Antonio government to help residents learn the skills necessary to find and maintain employment. Ready to Work San Antonio offers the following:

Child care and transportation connections
Job interview preparation
Personalized career plan
Career coaching
Financial coverage for courses
Professional development opportunities

Qualifications:

At least 18
Live within San Antonio
Eligible to work in the United States
Income at or below 250% of FPL

How to get help:

Apply online
Dial 311
Visit a partnered agency

Workforce Solutions Alamo

This agency offers job searches, virtual training, and hiring events for people in and around San Antonio, Texas. Some workers may also qualify for a child care subsidy through the agency to help them pay for child care while working or training.

Qualifications for child care assistance:

Live in one of the following counties: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Kendall, Kerr, Karnes, Medina, McMullen, Wilson
Child under 13
Working or training at least 25 hours a week
Income at or below 85% of state median income

How to get help:

Contact a career center
Call 210-438-0581 for career help
Email [email protected]
Call 210-230-6300 for child care assistance

Transportation help in San Antonio

If you’re in need of help commuting to work in San Antonio, check out the following program:

Alamo Commutes

Alamo Commutes provides free transportation to residents in Bexar, Comal, Kendall, and Guadalupe Counties so that they can get to and from work. The organization customizes commute plans for everyone who signs up, giving them reliable and affordable transportation to continue working.

You can also get emergency rides home for unexpected events for free up to four times a year.

How to get help:

Call 210-227-8651
Email [email protected]

Charity organizations in San Antonio

Several charities exist in San Antonio, Texas that can help single moms and their children:

Valor Never Alone

Valor Never Alone’s mission is to help single moms get and stay on their feet through financial assistance for gas and food, counseling services, and mortgage and rent assistance.

How to get help:

Apply online

Guadalupe Home

Guadalupe Home is operated by the Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio, Inc. The home provides shelter and parenting and skills training for pregnant women and mothers and guides them toward finding jobs that will support their families.

Qualifications:

18 or older
Homeless or at risk of being homeless
Pregnant or have at least one child under the age of three
Willing to complete high school or get a GED
Employed or seriously seeking employment

How to get help:

Call 210-476-0707

Seton Home

Seton Home assists teen mothers and their children in the San Antonio area receive supportive services, like tutoring, school enrollment, childbirth education, life skills training, financial literacy education, and child development screenings.

Qualifications:

U.S. citizen or qualified resident
Pregnant or have a child under 36 months

How to get help:

Call 210-533-3504
Email [email protected]

Driving Single Parents

Driving Single Parents is a San Antonio charity that gifts vehicles to parents in need. Vehicles are donated or sponsored by area partners.

Qualifications:

Single parent
Valid driver’s license
Be able to afford insurance
Need a vehicle for work or training
Live in Bexar County

How to get help:

Fill out an online application

Fairweather Family Lodge

Fairweather Family Lodge operates 20 efficiency apartments for single moms who have a disability and face homelessness to get adequate and reliable shelter. The charity also assists with case management, life skills training, and meeting children’s educational needs.

Qualifications:

Single mom with a disability
Experience chronic homelessness

How to get help:

Call 210-431-6466
Get a referral from your Coordinated Entry agency

Magdalena House

Magdalena House provides transitional homes for single moms and their children who have escaped domestic violence situations. In addition to housing, the program provides basic necessities and therapy services.

Qualifications:

Be at least 18 with no more than three children under 8 years old
Mom who is a domestic violence or human trafficking survivor, aged out of foster care, or involved in a CPS reunification plan
Little to no income

How to get help:

Call 210-561-0505
Email [email protected]

Help for single moms in Dallas, Texas

These resources are geared toward residents of Dallas, Texas:

Emergency cash assistance in Dallas

Get help paying your bills or buying the food, clothing, and basic necessities you need with the following programs that serve Dallas residents:

Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) Welfare Assistance

DCHHS provides temporary financial assistance to those who cannot currently work and are struggling to pay their bills. The money can go toward their housing, utilities, transportation, or food needs.

Qualifications:

18 years or older
Dallas County resident
U.S. citizen or legal resident
Not receiving housing assistance
Limited income and resources

How to get help:

Call 214-819-1800

Social Services & Support Program

Dallas’s Office of Community Care offers this program to residents in need of temporary financial assistance to pay for rent or utilities.

Qualifications:

Live in Dallas
Temporary financial crisis

How to get help:

Schedule an appointment with a caseworker by calling 214-670-8416

Saint Vincent de Paul North Texas Financial Assistance

Saint Vincent de Paul North Texas is a volunteer organization that provides temporary financial assistance to families in need. The money can be used toward rent or utilities.

How to get help:

Fill out the form
Call 469-607-0909
Email [email protected]

Housing help in Dallas

The following program offers financial help for Dallas residents looking to purchase a home in the city:

Dallas Homebuyer Assistance Program (DHAP)

DHAP helps homebuyers with low to moderate incomes buy a home in the Dallas area by providing up to $60,000 in financial assistance toward the purchase of the home. The assistance is a second mortgage on the home that’s forgiven after a certain number of years of the homeowner remaining in the home, which varies by loan.

Qualifications:

Income at or below 80% of area median income
U.S. citizen or lawful resident
Employed for at least six months
Two months of mortgage payments in savings and contribution of at least $1,000
Debt-to-income ratio 45% or lower

How to get help:

Call 214-670-3644
Email [email protected]

Medical and dental care help in Dallas

Consider using these clinics to get free and affordable health care services in Dallas, Texas:

Agape Clinic

The Agape Clinic is a donor-supported medical clinic in Dallas, Texas, that provides primary care to adults and children in need. The clinic doesn’t require patients to meet certain income or qualifying guidelines for care.

Qualifications:

None, although the clinic suggests a monetary donation of $50

How to get help:

Call 972-707-7782

The Doctor Spot Free Health Clinic

The Doctor Spot is a mobile unit that offers free medical care to children in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including:

Sick and wellness visits
Immunizations
Obesity screenings
Asthma management
Sports physicals
X-rays
Basic laboratory tests

Qualifications:

Uninsured children 0-18

How to get help:

Call 972-834-2473

ICNA Relief Medical Clinic Dallas

This medical clinic is open every Saturday to give Dallas residents free primary care, specialty care, and psychiatric and counseling services.

Qualifications:

Age 18-64
Uninsured
Income at or below 250% of FPL

How to get help:

Call 469-291-7411
Email [email protected]

Food help in Dallas

Contact this program if you need food for your family:

North Texas Food Bank

North Texas Food Bank provides mobile food distribution to locations around the Dallas area to families in need, and families do not need to register to pick up food. The food bank also has a backpack program for school-aged children to take home food on the weekends and provides summer meals to eligible school children.

Qualifications:

Varies by program

How to get help:

Call 214-330-1396
Email [email protected]

Education help in Dallas

If you’re planning to attend college and live in the Dallas area, you may qualify for financial assistance to pay tuition from this program:

Dallas County Promise

Dallas County Promise gives tuition assistance to eligible students attending a participating college. The money varies by student and is attended to cover any gap between the amount of financial aid the recipient qualifies for and the amount of tuition they owe. The program can cover tuition for a student until they complete their degree.

Qualifications:

Graduate from a Promise high school
Attend a participating school
Complete the FAFSA

How to get help:

Complete the Promise Path
Email [email protected]

Employment help in Dallas

This Dallas resource helps residents find and keep employment that can support their families:

Workforce Dallas

Workforce Dallas is an initiative to improve the skills of the Dallas workforce through education, training, and breaking down barriers that can prevent someone from finding and maintaining employment, like accessing reliable child care.

The organization works with each individual enrolled in the program to provide a customized solution to help them find a job they qualify for and be a productive member of the workforce.

How to get help:

Fill out the online form

Charity organizations in Dallas

These charities in the Dallas, Texas, area offer several modes of help to single moms:

Helping Hands for Single Moms Dallas

This charity provides supportive services for single moms in Dallas who are trying to achieve financial independence. Services include:

Budgeting help
Auto repair financial assistance
Professional counseling
Some medical and dental care
Emergency cash assistance
Educational scholarships
Monetary help for holiday gifts
Tutoring or mentoring

Qualifications:

U.S. citizen or legal resident
Live in Dallas, Collin, Tarrant, or Denton counties
At least one child under 11
Income at or below 150% of FPL
Single or divorced
At least one college semester and a 2.8 GPA
Participate in mandatory meetings

How to get help:

Apply online

Hopeful Solutions

Homeless mothers with a mental health diagnosis or substance abuse problem and their children can get shelter and supportive services from Hopeful Solutions. The charity offers these programs:

Jump Start: This program gives needy moms and their children emergency housing for up to six months while they get on their feet. The program also provides life skills and vocational training.
New Directions: New Directions helps moms become self-sufficient by offering financial literacy resources, case management, and rental assistance for a full year.
Out and About: This program provides socialization opportunities for enrolled moms and their children to enjoy community activities together.

Qualifications:

Single mom who is homeless or facing homelessness
Substance abuse or mental health diagnosis

How to get help:

Fill out the intake application
Call 972-982-2005

The Gatehouse

The Gatehouse is a Christian charity that helps women support themselves and their children through education and career services.

Women can participate in the education track or career track. The education track gives moms and their children rent-free housing while they complete a college degree, plus a monthly stipend to pay for their necessities.

The career track also provides a rent-free space for women and their children to focus on working full-time while building up enough income to support themselves financially. The program includes weekly coaching sessions, skills classes, child care, basic medical care, and counseling services.

Qualifications for education track:

Single mom at least 21 years old
Dependent child at least one year old
U.S. citizen
Live in Dallas-Fort Worth metro area
Within two years of graduating with an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree
Currently enrolled in approved school (Parker University, Texas Woman’s University, or The University of Texas at Arlington) and have at least a 3.0 GPA
FAFSA approval
No active addictions
Valid driver’s license

Qualifications for career track:

Single mom at least 21 years old
With or without dependent child (children must be at least one year old, and no more than two children)
U.S. citizen
Live in Dallas-Fort Worth metro area
High school diploma or GED
Valid driver’s license
Able and willing to work full-time
Not currently in school

How to get help:

Apply online
Call 817-912-0317
[email protected]

Help for single moms in Austin, Texas

If you live in Austin, Texas, and need financial assistance or support with housing, medical care, food, and more, check out these resources:

Housing help in Austin

The following options are available for Austin residents in need of help paying their rent or affording a new home.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Austin’s emergency rental assistance program provides money for rent to residents who are at risk of facing eviction due to not being able to afford their rent.

Qualifications:

Income at or below 80% of area median income
Live in Austin, Texas or Travis County
At risk for homelessness

How to get help:

Apply online

St. Austin Catholic Church and School Rent and Utility Assistance

This Austin-based church has rent and utility assistance drawings every week to help local residents pay their housing-related bills.

How to get help:

Attend services on Thursdays to be entered into the drawings
Call 512-477-9471
Email [email protected]

Down Payment Assistance

The City of Austin offers up to $40,000 in down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers who are buying a home within Austin. The payment can also cover closing costs.

Qualifications:

Buying a home within Austin’s city limits
First-time homebuyer
Qualify for a mortgage loan through participating lender
Complete a homebuyer education course

How to get help:

Contact a participating lender

GO REPAIR! Grant

The GO REPAIR! Grant provides up to $20,000 for homeowners to repair dangerous parts of their homes, like rotting floors or roofs.

Qualifications:

Austin homeowner
Income at or below 80% of area median income

How to get help:

Call 512-974-3100
Email [email protected]

Home Rehabilitation Loan Program

The Home Rehabilitation Loan Program gives loans of up to $75,000 to eligible homeowners to make necessary home improvements to bring their homes to code, such as upgrading plumbing or electrical systems. The loan acts as a second mortgage loan but has 0% interest and no monthly payments and is partially forgiven when the home is sold.

Qualifications:

Home within Austin city limits
Income at or below 80% of area median income
Hasn’t undergone bankruptcy within two years

How to get help:

Fill out the online form

Plumbing Program

The Plumbing Program offers free funding for eligible plumbing repairs, like fixing toilets, sinks, or water heaters. Assistance can range up to $15,000.

Qualifications:

Austin Water customer
Single-family home
Primary residence
Income at or below 100% of area median income

How to get help:

Call 512-974-3100
Email [email protected]

Electric bill help in Austin

Contact the following programs if you need help paying your electric or utility bills in Austin, Texas.

Customer Assistance Program (CAP)

The City of Austin offers an average of $560 in discounts on utility bills for low-income residents. The discount can go toward electric, water, and sewage charges.

Qualifications:

Participate in a qualifying assistance program, like SNAP, CHIP, or Medicaid
Income below 200% of the FPL

How to get help:

Call 512-494-9400
Apply online

Plus 1 Program

Austin’s Plus 1 Program is for emergency financial assistance toward utility bills if you’re facing an unexpected financial hardship that affects your ability to pay your utilities.

Qualifications:

City of Austin utility customer

How to get help:

Contact a community partner for help
Call 512-494-9400

Medical and dental care help in Austin

Find free and low-cost medical and dental care in Austin through these organizations.

Volunteer Healthcare Clinic

The Volunteer Healthcare Clinic is a part-time medical clinic that runs by donation and provides primary care services and chronic disease management. The clinic assists both adults and children. Although not required, the clinic suggests a $10 donation per visit.

Qualifications:

Uninsured
Income at or below 200% of the FPL
Live in Travis County
Valid ID

How to get help:

Call 512-459-6002, option 0
Email [email protected]

People’s Community Clinic

People’s Community Clinic provides free and low-cost healthcare and dental services to adults and children in Austin, Texas. Patients must make an appointment before visiting and will not be turned away due to their ability to pay. You’ll need to update your income information once a year.

The clinic offers numerous services, including pregnancy care, gynecology, chronic disease management, nutrition education, basic dental care, and laboratory services.

Qualifications:

Valid ID
Uninsured, Medicaid, or Medicare

How to get help:

Call 512-478-4939
Use the contact form

Hope Clinic

Hope Clinic is a free healthcare clinic for refugees, immigrants, and underserved individuals and families in Austin. Children and adults are accepted. Patients must make an appointment to receive primary care services, but appointments are by donation only, with a suggested donation of $10.

Qualifications:

No health insurance
Live in Austin area

How to get help:

Call 512-766-9979
Text 512-768-8609
Email [email protected]

St. David’s Foundation Mobile Dental Program

This mobile dental program includes nine vehicles that travel to schools within the Austin area to provide needy students with free dental care. The program also assists adults with basic dental care if they’re referred by a community agency.

Qualifications:

Children: Attend participating school and have a consent form signed by a parent or guardian
Adults: Receive a referral from a community agency

How to get help:

Call 512-879–6231
Email [email protected]

Food help in Austin

These food-focused programs can help you and your family get groceries.

Central Texas Food Bank

Central Texas Food Bank provides fresh food and produce to needy families monthly through its Fresh Food for Families program, which distributes food to local food banks. It also runs school backpack programs and summer food programs for school-aged children to get healthy food on the weekends and during summer break. Additionally, single moms can enroll in the Home Delivery Program to receive a box of groceries each month.

Qualifications:

Children in participating schools can take advantage of the backpack and summer food programs. For the Home Delivery Program, households must have a food need and a child aged 0-18.

How to get help:

Call 512-282-2111
Contact a partnered food bank

Hope Food Pantry Austin

Hope Food Pantry Austin runs food drives to donate groceries to needy families in the Austin, Texas area. The pantry is open every Thursday and Friday and the first Saturday of each month from 9-10:30 AM.

How to get help:

Email [email protected]

Employment help in Austin

Get help searching for a new job or training for a new career in Austin, Texas, through this agency.

Workforce Solutions Capital Area

Workforce Solutions Capital Area has free online training and hosts events and workshops to help people find jobs and build skills for future employment. It can also connect workers to apprenticeships to help them gain on-the-job experience.

This organization also provides childcare scholarships to cover some or all of the costs of childcare for low-income families while the parent works or attends school.

Qualifications for childcare assistance:

Live in Travis County
Single parent working or training for at least 25 hours weekly
Meet income guidelines (no more than $54,601 for a family of two)

Anyone needing help finding a job or training for employment can qualify for other employment assistance.

How to get help:

Apply online or call 512-597-7091 for childcare scholarships
Call 512-485-3734 for employment services

Transportation help in Austin

Utilize the following transportation service with low-cost and free rides in Austin, Texas and its surrounding areas:

CARTS

CARTS provides public transportation in Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Travis and Williamson counties. Children under 12 ride free, and people with disabilities can pay fares as low as $1.

CARTS also offers free rides to and from medical-related appointments for people on Medicaid.

How to get help:

Email [email protected]
Call 512-478-7433

Charity organizations in Austin

These Austin-based charities can support single moms with various services.

Caritas of Austin

Caritas of Austin helps people in the Austin area who are at risk of homelessness by providing food, education and employment services, and housing support. Some clients may qualify for transitional housing until they can support themselves and their families.

Qualifications:

Client of Caritas

How to get help:

Call 512-479-4610

Saint Louise House

Located in Austin, Saint Louise House assists single moms and their children with affordable subsidized housing, utility assistance, and case management services to help them support their families.

Qualifications:

Single mom at risk of homelessness

How to get help:

Email an application to [email protected]
Call 512-326-2774

Austin Diaper Bank

The Austin Diaper Bank gives needy moms diapers and wipes for their children.

How to get help:

Contact a partnered local agency
Call 2-1-1
Visit 2-1-1 Texas
Email [email protected]

SAFE Austin

SAFE Austin is an organization dedicated to helping people escape from abusive and violent situations. Families can get affordable housing, life skills education, employment help, parental support, and counseling.

How to get help:

Call 512-267-7233

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2 Comments

I meant to say “I found myself losing hope” sorry just wanted to correct that :)

I just want to say I think this is a great thing that you’ve done putting this website together. I’m a single mom, a survivor from domestic violence. I lost my housing and got real sick because black mold so I’m pretty much homeless, now fighting for my son’s freedom for something he hadn’t done who is incarcerated at this time and he’s my only one so you can imagine the endless sleepless nights and the tears that fall, I going myself losing hope….BUT coming across your website actually is helping me and giving me a little bit more guidance as to where I can turn to so I just want to say Thank you.