Rent Assistance

• The Houston Housing Authority reports that Section 8 recipients typically pay 30 to 40 percent of their income toward their rent. Recipients receive a Section 8 Housing Choice voucher they put toward their monthly rent. The recipient can rent from any landlord approved by the Housing Authority to accept the vouchers. To qualify, the family must reside in the Houston area and must meet low-income guidelines set by the authority.
  
  

Utility Assistance

• Texas provides the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program. This program provides grants to qualified families to reduce their utility costs. Some utility providers also offer grants and one-time assistance programs for families in need. For example, the Sam Houston Electric Cooperative offers the Helping Hands Program. Entergy offers utility assistance for low-income elderly and disabled persons through the Project Care program. To qualify for utility assistance a family must meet income guidelines.
  
  

Groceries

• Low-income families can get a monthly stipend for their grocery bill through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Qualified applicants receive a Lone Star Card, which works like a credit card at grocery stores and some farmers' markets. The monthly benefit amount depends on the size of the family, the family's income and the family's personal needs. To qualify, a family must fall under a certain net and gross monthly income level and have limited access to financial resources such as bank accounts or stocks.
  
  

Charitable Grants

• Several charitable programs based in Houston offer grants to help cover emergency expenses. For example, the Emergency Food Aid Pantry provides food packages for families who cannot afford to cover the cost of food. The Salvation Army provides day care and short-term shelter services as well as grants to help cover food and everyday expenses. The Wesley Community Center provides utility assistance and also has a rental assistance program available.