Texas has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, as well as being one of the states with the highest number of seniors. Many seniors struggle financially, due to things costing so much and them living on a fixed income. As the cost of things rise and their income doesn’t it creates a situation that could leave them homeless and hungry. The good news is that there are programs that offer financial assistance for seniors in Texas.
By applying for the programs below seniors may be able to get help ensuring their basic needs are met each month. There are programs that will provide assistance with purchasing food, paying utility bills, rental assistance, and more. Most of the programs have been provided by the federal government, but some are made possible through organizations that seek to help those in the community.
Programs provided by the state and federal government typically require people to meet low income guidelines and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. They may also have time limits on how long someone can get help through the program. The programs provided by organizations are not usually as strict with the qualifications. They typically provide their assistance to anyone in the community who needs it. There is no limit to how many programs you can apply for or receive funding from. Plus, the funds never have to be paid back, since it is not considered a loan.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – To obtain monthly financial assistance purchasing food, seniors can apply for SNAP. This program is provided by the federal government and is open to everyone has a low income and is a citizen or legal non-citizen. The program will provide a debit-style card that will be electronically loaded each month with funds by the government. The card is then used at the grocery store or farmers market to pay for groceries. Most types of groceries are covered under the program, but those that are already prepared are not, such as fast food and prepared deli items. The amount someone receives is determined in part by how many dependents are in the home. Seniors who qualify can get assistance from this program long term. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
Catholic Charities – This charitable organization has many locations in the state of Texas. They have several programs in place to help seniors and others who need financial assistance. They will provide free food, clothing, and other resources as needed. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Square Meals – This organization will help seniors and others who need assistance locate food pantries and food banks in their area. These are places that seniors can turn to for help with obtaining food supplies. Some places hold monthly events, where people can pull up and get free food, and others will deliver food supplies to seniors who find it difficult to get out. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – There are several programs that seniors can utilize from HUD. They will help with rent assistance, foreclosure avoidance, and help paying for house repairs. HUD also provides a weatherization service that will make the home more energy efficient, which helps reduce the monthly energy bills. HUD is also a good place to contact to help find affordable housing options. To get assistance from this federal agency you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. Those approved for the program can get long term assistance, unless their financial situation changes and improves. To get more information and apply for housing assistance through HUD, click here.
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs – This state program will help people who are facing an eviction notice or who need immediate rent relief. To get more information and apply, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) – This program will help seniors and others who need financial assistance to pay for their energy bills. Seniors who have a low income can apply for assistance to help pay for their heating and cooling bill. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – This is a free referral program that is open to anyone who needs financial assistance in Texas. Seniors can call this number to inquire about programs in their area that will help with the type of bills they need to pay, including utility bills, rent, and purchasing food. The United Way organization provides this program to people in need. They can help seniors find many different types of local programs that will provide assistance in the areas they need it the most. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This program can make it much easier for seniors with a low income to pay for their medical bills. The federal government created this program to help ensure that people get the help they need paying for most types of medical bills, including going to the doctor, hospital, specialist, clinic, and obtaining prescription drugs. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements, be a citizen or legal non-citizen, and be under the age of 65. There is no time limit on how long you can get assistance from this program if you continue to meet the qualifications. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to the one list above, but it is intended for those who are over the age of 65. It will provide financial assistance to pay for most types of medical bills for those who qualify. There are no income requirements for this program, as it is open to everyone in the country who meets the age requirements and is a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply, click here.
