Community Resource Guide

Child Daycare

NINOS Inc. Raul Yzaguirre Head Start
https://www.ninosinc.org/
2255 N. Coria
Brownsville, TX., 78520
(956) 544-1166
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

NINOS Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start Program
https://www.ninosinc.org/
22887  State Hwy 345
Rio Hondo, TX., 78583
(956) 399-9944
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

NINOS Inc. provides childcare to families with children ages 0 – 4. Individuals must meet income eligibility guidelines. The program ensures your child is ready for school by providing:

• Health and Nutritional Assessments
• Medical and Dental Follow-Ups
• Pre and Post-Natal Education for Pregnant Women
• Nutritional Meals & Snacks
• The Least Restrictive Environment for Children with Disabilities
• Individualized Infant, Toddler, and Pre-School “School Readiness”
• Transportation (where available)

When applying, parents or legal guardians must provide proof of income such as:

• 1040 Signed
• Employer Written Statement form
• Attorney General’s Letter
• Financial Aid Award Letter
• Unemployment Comp
• Workman’s Comp
• Current Check Stub (last 3)
• W-2 Forms

For more information, visit the website page https://www.ninosinc.org/

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Workforce Solutions Cameron Child Care Services -CCMS Brownsville

https://wfscameron.org/how-do-i-apply-for-childcare-services/
851 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78521
(956) 546-3141
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Workforce Solutions Cameron Child Care Services -CCMS Harlingen
https://wfscameron.org/how-do-i-apply-for-childcare-services/
601 E. Harrison St.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-9266
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Workforce Solutions Cameron Child Care Services helps income-eligible families find and pay for child care. CCMS in Brownsville and Harlingen serve those living in Cameron County who:

• Meet income guidelines
• Are working, attending school, or enrolled in a training program, or a combination

• • At least 25 hours a week for a single parent
  • At least 50 hours a week for a two-parent household

Individuals will be responsible for a childcare co-pay, depending on their monthly employment income before taxes (gross amount), total household income, and family size.  If parents meet employment participation requirements within three months, eligibility will continue for a total of 12 months, including the three months of the initial job search period.

To check for eligibility, complete the form @ https://workforcesolutionscameron.formstack.com/forms/ccform2.

 

Employment

Loaves and Fishes
https://www.lfrgv.org
514 S. E Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-1014
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Loaves and Fishes offers help and hope to our community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search assistance, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling.

The New Hope Job Shop offers individuals the chance to earn their GED and learn the skills necessary to find gainful employment. Three distinct educational and training classes are offered:

• GED Preparation
• Computer Classes
• Job Assistance

• • Resume writing
  • Interview techniques

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

 

Texas Workforce Solutions of Cameron County
Job Seekers, Career and Workforce Training
700 Ruben M. Torres Blvd., 3rd floor
Brownsville, Texas 78520
(956) 546-3141
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Workforce Solutions Cameron offers financial assistance to support workforce training by assisting individuals in acquiring the necessary skills or credentials to obtain and retain full-time employment. Assistance is available in the following areas:

• Funding for occupational/vocational training
• Funding for training material and books
• On-the-job training to acquire employment skills
• Funding for basic tools needed for a new job
• Transportation
• Job search and job matching assistance
• Funding for clothing for job interviews or to begin new employment
• Referrals for childcare assistance

Texas Workforce Solutions of Cameron County
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
851 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, Texas 78520
(956) 546-3141
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services supports individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment by providing a range of services based on an individual’s employment goals. Our Vocational Rehabilitation counselors work closely with job seekers to determine an employment goal, then identify and arrange for high-quality services that lead to successful employment.

Disabilities Served:

If you have one or more of the following [diagnosed or not], you may qualify for Vocational Rehabilitation services:

• Behavioral and mental health conditions
• Hearing impairments, including deafness
• Alcoholism or drug addiction
• Intellectual, learning, and developmental disabilities
• Physical disabilities, including traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, back injury, paralysis, and impaired movement
• Visual impairments

Vocational Rehabilitation Services:

• Vocational counseling and guidance
• Referrals for hearing, visual, and other examinations
• Assistance with medical appointments and treatment
• Rehabilitation devices, including hearing aids, wheelchairs, artificial limbs, and braces
• Therapy to address a disability, including occupational or speech therapy and applied behavioral analysis
• Physical restoration services
• Medical, psychological, and vocational assessments
• Assistance with a college education or trade certification
• On-the-job training
• Understanding workplace and employer expectations
• Vocational adjustment training
• Rehabilitation Teachers Services to help you learn Braille, orientation & mobility, and home and health management skills if you are blind or have a visual impairment.

For more information, contact your local Workforce Solutions office.

 

Work In Texas – Brownsville
851 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 546-3141
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Work In Texas – Harlingen
601 E Harrison St.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-9266
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Work in Texas is an online search engine that individuals can use to:

• Browse job openings
• Create a résumé
• Apply for jobs
• Search job tips
• Receive assistance with writing cover letters
• Practice interviewing skills
• Learn salary negotiation
• Evaluate job offers

For more information and to make an appointment, call the Work in Texas offices to verify that it provides the services you need.

 

YouthBuild
https://youthbuild.org/
815 Arthur St.
Brownsville, TX 78521     
(956) 548-2302
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am -5:30 pm, Fri 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

YouthBuild offers individuals 16-24 years of age work experience and assistance finding employment within the community. They also offer:

• GED education
• Construction training
• Leadership development
• Community service opportunities

For more information, visit the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/cdcbyouthbuild/.

 

 

Finance

Medicaid- Statewide
Texas Health and Human Services
P. O. Box 149024
Austin, TX 78714-9024
1-800-252-8263                                                         

Medicaid is a state benefit program that helps individuals with little or no money who are in need. Through Medicaid, eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, and individuals who are older or who have disabilities may receive government medical coverage. Medicaid helps cover visits to doctors, dentists, and hospitals. Medicaid also covers medicines ordered by doctors and dentists.

Be ready to answer questions about all family members seeking coverage, such as:

• • Social Security number and birth date
  • Citizenship or immigration status
  • Income from jobs and other sources
  • The value of cars and other property

• Bills owed

To apply for benefits, complete the application located at, Apply for Benefits

 

Medicare-Statewide
https://www.medicare.gov/
1-800-633-4227
TTY 1-877-486-2048                                                    

insurance Medicare provides health for individuals 65 years or older. Individuals are eligible to sign up for Medicare 3 months before they turn 65 and may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if they have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease). Through Medicare, people younger than age 65 with certain disabilities may receive assistance with the cost of health care, although not all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care may be covered.

Individuals who need help beyond what is on Medicare.gov can talk or live chat with a real person, 24 hours a day, 7 days week (except some federal holidays).

To apply for benefits, complete the application located at https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Apply/GettingStartedApp?lang=en_US.

 

Social Security- Statewide
https://www.ssa.gov/
Social Security Administration

Harlingen, TX 78550
(866) 931-7075 The Social Security program provides a source of income for individuals who are retired, cannot work due to a disability, or are dependents when a parent dies.The Social Security Administration oversees:

• Retirement benefits
• Disability benefits
• Survivor and family benefits
• Enrollment in Medicare
• Issuance of social security numbers, which are unique identifiers needed to work, handle financial transactions, and determine eligibility for certain government services

Individuals can use the online services to:

• Apply for benefits
• Check the status of claim
• Check the status appeal
• Request a replacement Social Security card (in many areas)
• Receive an instant benefit verification letter

To check for eligibility, complete the eligibility form located at https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/check-eligibility-for-benefits.

To apply for benefits, complete the application located at https://www.ssa.gov/apply .

 

Supplemental Security Income- Statewide
1-800-772-1213
TTY 1-800-325-0778
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness, who have income and resources below specific financial thresholds. SSI payments are also made to people age 65 and older without disabilities who meet financial qualifications.

To apply for SSI, complete the application located at https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/start.html.

After you complete the online process, a Social Security representative will schedule an appointment to help you apply for benefits.

Please be prepared with the following:

• The name, date of birth, Social Security number, mailing address, phone number, and email address (optional) for the person applying for SSI
• Your name, phone number, and email address (optional) if you are helping someone else

 

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families TANF/ Lone Star Card- Statewide
1 (800) 777-7328
P.O. Box 149024
Austin, TX 78714-9024

TANF provides monthly cash payments to eligible families with economic needs to help pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, furniture, transportation, phone, laundry, supplies for the home, medical supplies not paid for by Medicaid, and other basic needs. A family can be (1) parents and their children or (2) relatives caring for related children.

The one-time TANF program provides a once-in-a-lifetime payment of $1,000 to certain relatives caring for one or more related children. This help can be given to relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, sisters, and brothers) who care for a child that receives TANF, are 25 or older, and meet financial eligibility requirements. This payment is available only once, no matter how many other related children live in the home or if other children move in. The payment may be used to pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, furniture, transportation, phone, laundry, supplies for the home, medical supplies not paid for by Medicaid, and other basic needs.

To apply for benefits, complete the form located at  https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home.

 

Texas Southmost College – Financial Aid Office
Oliveira Student Services Center 1st Floor
(956) 295-3620
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

The TSC Financial Aid Office provides students and their parent’s information regarding federal, state, institutional, and other sources of financial aid. The Financial Aid Office administers aid to eligible students who, without such aid, would be unable to attend college. Financial aid consists of funds provided to students to help pay for college educational expenses. Financial Aid may consist of:

• Federal and state grants – free money
• Scholarships – Free Money
• Loans – money that must be repaid within six months after graduation, when enrolled less than half-time, or when the student completely stops attending school
• Work-Study – A part-time job that can help you pay for school and living expenses

For more information, read the Financial Aid Student Handbook

 

Queen of Peace Outreach Ministries
www.qphrl.org
1605 New Combes Hwy.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-6341
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon – Fri. 9:00 am-4:30 pm

Queen of Peace Outreach Ministries is a Catholic faith-based community church that provides services to the poor and marginalized. The Queen of Peace provides the following support services:

• Utility assistance on Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
• Food pantry on Tuesday & Wednesday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
• Clothing on Tuesday & Wednesday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

For more information, visit the webpage located at https://www.qphrl.org/community-service.

 

United Way of Southern Cameron County
634 East Levee St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 548-6880
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

United Way of Southern Cameron County provides financial support, food and nutrition, health services and education, and tax assistance through the VITA program. Distribution of bags of groceries via drive-through is scheduled every Friday at 8:00 a.m. alternating between the Brownsville Event Center and Besteiro Middle School.

For Income Tax Assistance, available for individuals/ families making $58,000 or less, please bring the following:

• Valid photo identification
• Original Social Security cards for all household members
• A copy of last year’s tax return, if available
• Health Insurance Form 1095-A, if you purchased insurance through the government marketplace
• Income documents, such as Forms W-2, W-2G, and 1099, from all employers and other sources (social security, unemployment, pension, etc.)
• Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)
• Bank routing numbers and account numbers for direct deposit of refund
• Form 1098-T, for students with post-secondary tuition expenses or grant income
• Total paid for daycare provider and the daycare provider’s tax identifying number
• Identity theft prevention pin, if assigned by the IRS
• Note: both spouses must be present to sign the required forms for Married Filing Jointly returns. VITA sites do not prepare Married Filing Separately returns

For more information on ongoing events, visit the United Way of Southern Cameron County Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/UnitedWayRGV/.

 

Valley Initiative for Development & Advancement (VIDA)
417 S. Ohio Ave.
Mercedes, TX
(956) 903-1900
(800) 478-1770 (hotline)
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am -5:00 pm

VIDA helps low-income, unemployed, and underemployed residents of the Rio Grande Valley access the education and training they need to secure high-skilled, high-wage jobs by providing the necessary support services, career guidance, intensive case management, and financial assistance. VIDA counselors infuse group sessions with soft-skills training and wrap-around services such as:

• General employability
• Resume building
• Job interviewing preparation
• Time management
• Financial management
• Study skills
• Monthly case management sessions to help students address and overcome emotional challenges, financial struggles, and family and life stressors

Students will receive customized financial assistance based on the need for:

• Tuition
• Textbooks
• Uniforms
• Tools
• Childcare
• Transportation

VIDA Eligibility Requirements are as follows:

• A resident of the Rio Grande Valley
• 18 years or older
• Eligible to work in the United States
• Below the 200% federal poverty guidelines, or
• Underemployed with family responsibilities earning less than $14, or
• Unemployed with family responsibilities registered with the Texas Workforce Commission.

Complete the VIDA application.

For more information, visit the VIDA social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/vidargv or https://twitter.com/VIDA_Careers.

Food

Brownsville Wellness Coalition
1 West University Dr.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 465-4178
[email protected]
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-5:00 pm

The Brownsville Wellness Coalition (BWC) addresses the community’s poor health status by providing programs that promote nutrition and healthy lifestyles. The Brownsville Wellness Coalition cultivates healthy food and lifestyles by:

• Strengthening the local food system
• Improving access to nutritious, affordable food
• Educating the public to produce, cook, and eat healthy local food
• Promoting healthy lifestyle choices
• Providing opportunities to engage in physical activity

For more information on ongoing events and food distributions schedule, visit the Brownsville Wellness Coalition Facebook page https://www.Facebook.com/brownsvillewellnesscoalition.

 

Cameron County Public Health WIC Program
1390 W. Expressway 83
Brownsville, Texas 78520
(956) 247 -3672
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am -5:00 pm, Fri. 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

The Cameron County Public Health WIC program helps pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding a baby under one year of age, and women who have had a baby in the past six months. Parents, step-parents, guardians, and foster parents of infants and children under the age of 5 can apply for their children. WIC provides:

• Nutrition education and counseling
• Nutritious food
• Referrals to health and human services
• Breastfeeding support

You may apply for WIC if you are working or unemployed. TANF, SNAP, and Medicaid recipients automatically qualify. Proof of income, proof of residency (living in the U.S.), and one form of identification are needed to apply.

To apply, complete the online application.

After you submit this form, someone from your local WIC clinic will contact you.

For more information, visit the current income guidelines at  www.texaswic.org/apply#incomeguidelines or www.texaswic.org/apply#faq.

 

Food Bank RGV
3105, 724 North Cage Blvd.
Pharr, Texas 78577
(956) 682-8101
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am -5:30 pm

Food Bank RGV provides food assistance, nutrition education, and access to community services. Emergency food assistance is available for individuals in need. Pantry services can only be used once every 30 days. After the initial visit to the Food Bank RGV, participants will receive a referral to an area food pantry that can provide food assistance on a monthly basis.

Please bring the following to receive assistance:

• Picture ID
• Proof of address (such as a current utility bill)

For a referral to a pantry close to you, call (956) 682-8101 and select option 2.

For more information on ongoing events, visit the FoodBank RGV social media pages at www.facebook.com/FoodBankRGV or twitter.com/foodbankrgv.

 

Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry
801 East Harrison St.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 428-3972
Food distribution: Wed 9:00 am – 11:30 am (drive-thru only)

The Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry provides food, clothing, and housewares for those with low income and provides baby supplies to mothers. Housed families may receive food once a month; the homeless may receive food weekly.

Please bring the following to receive assistance:

• Picture ID
• Proof of address (such as a current utility bill)
• Empty car trunk

For more information on ongoing events, visit the Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Harlingen-Neighborhood-Food-Pantry-Harlingen-Texas-151087474951116/.

 

Good Neighbor Settlement House
1254 E. Tyler St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 542-2368
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Good Neighbor Settlement House is a nonprofit, multi-service agency that assists the men, women, and children of Brownsville by providing:

• Nutritious meals
• Clothing
• Showers
• Support services

Good Neighbor Settlement House provides three nutritious meals per day at no cost.

The soup kitchen hours are on Monday through Friday as follows:

• Breakfast: 8:30 am.- 9:30 am.
• Lunch: 12:30 pm.- 1:30 pm.
• Dinner: 4:30 pm.- 5:30 pm.

For information on ongoing events, visit the Good Neighbor Settlement House Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/gnshbvlle/.

 

Loaves and Fishes
514 S. E Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-1014
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Loaves & Fishes offers help and hope to our community and provides temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling.

The Bread of Life Dining Hall serves hot meals during the day. Meals are always free and are served seven days a week at the Harlingen and Raymondville locations. The dining hall offers a variety of nutritious food for children and adults.

• Breakfast: 7:00 am.- 8:00 am.
• Lunch: 12:00 pm.- 1:00 pm.
• Dinner: 4:00 pm.- 5:00 pm.
• Saturday and Sunday for shelter residents only

The Harvest Table Food Pantry distributes food bags out of their Harlingen facility on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Food bags include non-perishable food items such as canned vegetables, fruits, and tuna, cereals, pasta, and beans.

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

 

Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) – Browne Clinic
9901 California Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(888) 942-4847
Office Hours: Mon-Wed 8:00 am-8:00 pm, Thur. 8:00 am -5:00 pm, Fri. 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) – Garden Plaza
1225 North Expressway Suite 2D
Brownsville, TX 78520
(888) 942-4847
Office Hours: Mon-Wed 8:00 am-8:00 pm, Thur. 8:00 am -5:00 pm, Fri. 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program helps pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding a baby under 1 year of age, and women who have had a baby in the past six months. Parents, step-parents, guardians, and foster parents of infants and children under the age of 5 can apply for their children. WIC provides:

• Nutrition education and counseling
• Nutritious foods
• Referrals to health and human services
• Breastfeeding support

Please bring the following:

• Applicants who receive Medicaid, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, or Food Stamps automatically meet income eligibility. They should bring proof of their participation in one of these programs and do not have to bring other income documents.
• Household’s source of income or wages (such as a paycheck stub, current tax return, letter from an employer, Social Security check, or child-support check).
• Proof of residence (such as a utility or credit-card bill, rent receipt, or business letter).
• Identification for each person applying for WIC benefits and the adult responsible for the benefits (such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, immunization card, employee or school identification card with picture, Social Security card, or hospital records).

For more information, visit https://www.wicprograms.org/li/browne_wic_clinic.

 

Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Statewide
Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded grant program that provides financial help to individuals and families to buy food. The program provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of families experiencing food insecurity so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. The household must meet certain requirements to be eligible for SNAP and receive benefits such as:

• Individuals in eligible low-income households.
• Most adults ages 18 to 49 with no children in their home can get SNAP for only three months in a three-year period. The benefit period might be longer if the person works at least 20 hours a week or is in a job or training program.
• Some adults might not have to meet work requirements to get benefits, such as those who have a disability or are pregnant.
• Households in which all members are either older adults (age 60 and older) or people with disabilities are eligible to participate in the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP), which makes the SNAP application process easier and provides three years of benefits at a time instead of six months.

For more information, visit https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits.

To apply for benefits, visit https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/ytb/Public/Login.

 

United Way of Southern Cameron County
634 East Levee St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 548-6880

United Way of Southern Cameron County provides financial support, food and nutrition, health services and education, and tax assistance through VITA.

Distribution of bags of groceries via drive-thru is scheduled every Friday at 8:00 a.m. alternating between the Brownsville Event Center and Besteiro Middle School.

For information on ongoing events, visit the United Way of Southern Cameron County Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/UnitedWayRGV/.

 

Housing

 

Brownsville Housing Authority
www.hacb.us
[email protected]
2606 Boca Chica Blvd.
Brownsville, TX 78521
(956) 541-8315
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am-5:30 pm. Fri. 8:00 am-12:00 pm

The Housing Authority of Brownsville serves low-income families and provides access to affordable, quality housing and self-sufficiency through education. They provide three types of housing assistance: public housing, Section 8 voucher, and Homeownership voucher programs.

The HUD Public Housing assistance program provides decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families and individuals. Public housing comes in all sizes and types, from single-family houses to high-rise apartments for elderly families. Eligibility is determined by the local public housing agency (PHA). Eligibility is based on:

•  Annual gross income (income limits)
  •    Whether the applicant qualifies as elderly, a person with a disability, or as a family
  •    U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status

The Section 8 housing choice voucher program is the federal government’s major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Since housing assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants are able to find their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.

Eligibility for a housing voucher is determined by the PHA based on the following:

• Total annual gross income
• Family size
• S. citizenship and or eligible immigration status
• Family income may not exceed 50% of the median income for the county. HUD publishes median income levels and vary by location. The PHA serving your community can provide you with the income limits for your area and family size.

To apply, submit your online application through the application web portal at www.hacb.us.

For more information, call (956) 214-1510 or submit your questions via email at [email protected].

The Homeownership Voucher Program provides families with vouchers for first-time homeowners to meet monthly mortgage expenses.

Eligibility requirements include:

• Must be a first-time homeowner or cooperative member
• No family member has owned or had an ownership interest in their residence for at least three years
• A credit score of 680 points or above or determined by lender/mortgage company
• Minimum income requirement – Except in the case of disabled families, the qualified annual income of the adult family members who will own the home must not be less than the Federal minimum hourly wage multiplied by 2,000 hours. For disabled families, the qualified annual income of the adult family members who will own the home must not be less than the monthly Federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit for an individual living alone multiplied by 12. The PHA may also establish a higher minimum income requirement for either or both types of families. Except in the case of an elderly or disabled family, welfare assistance is not counted in determining whether the family meets the minimum income requirement.
• Employment requirement- Except in the case of elderly and disabled families, one or more adults in the family who will own the home is currently employed on a full-time basis and has been continuously employed on a full-time basis for at least one year before the commencement of homeownership assistance
• Homeownership counseling – applicants must attend and satisfactorily complete the PHA’s pre-assistance homeownership and housing counseling program
• Must be receiving subsidy assistance thru the Brownsville Housing Authority Section 8 Program
• Must meet Financial Institution Eligibility Requirements for a mortgage
• Any additional PHA eligibility requirements

For more information on the Homeownership program, contact Cesar Barrera – Home Ownership Specialist, at (956) 214-1525 or via email  [email protected].

For more information on ongoing events, visit the Housing Authority of Brownsville Facebook page https://www.Facebook.com/HACB1.

 

Catholic Charities of the RGV
955 W. Price Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 541-0220
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am -5:00 pm, Fri 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

The Catholic Charities of the RGV Emergency Assistance Program provides short-term utility assistance, hotel/motel vouchers to assist with temporary shelter for the homeless, medical needs vouchers, and medical consultation and prescription assistance for those in need.For more information, call the office or visit the Catholic Charities Facebook

 

Come Dream Come Build
901 E. Levee St.
Brownsville, TX 78520                                                                                                                              (956) 548-2302
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am -5:30 pm

Come Dream Come Build (CDCB) provides homeownership services, mortgage assistance, financial literacy information, and coaching. CDCB is a multifaceted affordable housing organization devoted to utilizing collaborative partnerships to create sustainable communities across the Rio Grande Valley through quality education, model financing, efficient home design, and superior construction.

For more information and to apply, visit the Come Dream Come Build website at www.cdcb.org.

For more information on ongoing events, visit the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/cdcbcomedreamcomebuild.

 

Friendship of Women, Inc.
95 E. Price Rd. Suite C
Brownsville, TX 78523
(956) 544-7412
[email protected]

The Friendship of Women serves men, women, and children impacted by family and sexual violence. All survivor services are free and confidential. Friendship of Women provides comprehensive services such as:

• Emergency shelter
• Crisis intervention
• Legal advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their families

Survivors may obtain individual and group therapy after a counselor determines what type of counseling services would be most beneficial. Counseling for adults and children is available free of charge at our Emergency Shelter and at our Community Outreach Center. Friendship of Women, Inc. counseling services are tailored to meet a survivor’s needs. Our clinical team is made up of two bilingual Licensed Professional Counselors with more than 25 years of combined experience working with survivors of family violence and sexual assault/childhood abuse.

For more information, call the office or visit the FOW website and social media pages at https://www.facebook.com/Friendship.of.Women/ and https://twitter.com/fowinc.

 

Family Crisis Center
616 W. Taylor Ave.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-9304
24-hour hotline (866)423-9304
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am -5:30 pm, Fri 8:30 am -3:30pm

 Family Crisis Center, Inc. is a domestic violence and rape crisis center that provides services to victims and their families. All survivor services are free and confidential. Services include:

• 24-hour hotline
• Emergency shelter
• Legal Advocacy
• Peer support
• Crisis intervention
• Emergency transportation
• Counseling

For more information, call the office or visit the Family Crisis Center website and social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/familycrisisctr.cameron.willacy/.

 

Loaves and Fishes
514 S. E Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-1014
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Loaves & Fishes offers help and hope to the community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling.

The Open Arms Homeless Shelter provides temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals and families. The shelter does not discriminate against race, ethnicity, gender, or religion. Every shelter resident is required to complete an intake application, so they are encouraged to bring their identification and any documentation.

Family Emergency Assistance provides short-term assistance to families in need. The program helps with:

• Rent or utilities
• Case management
• Food bags

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

 

Mujeres Unidas / Women Together
511 N. Cynthia St.
McAllen, Texas 78501
956-630-4878
24/7 Crisis Hotline 800-580-4879
[email protected]

Mujeres Unidas provides counseling for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Survivors are able to learn about the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault and safety planning. Mujeres Unidas is the only agency that provides Emergency Shelter and Support Services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Hidalgo County. Support services include:

• Crisis intervention counseling
• Safety planning
• Trauma-informed counseling
• Legal advocacy (accompaniment to law enforcement offices and court hearings)
• Transitional housing
• Hospital accompaniment for survivors of a sexual assault

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/mujeres.unidas.94.

 

Ozanam Center
656 N. Minnesota Ave.                                                                                                                              Brownsville, TX 78521
(956) 831-6331
Office Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

The Ozanam Center provides temporary emergency housing, referral to social work services, and clothing to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The Ozanam Center is an emergency shelter facility that provides temporary shelter (30 days) and other immediate needs to the homeless in the area regardless of their sex, color, creed, national origin, or any other determination.

The Ozanam Center provides:

• Case management
• Three basic meals daily
• Clothes, showers
• After-school tutoring
• Food pantry program
• Rapid re-housing program
• Rental assistance

Meals are provided at the following times:

• Breakfast: 7:30 am.- 8:30 am.
• Lunch: 11:30 am.- 12:30 pm.
• Dinner: 4:30 pm.- 5:30 pm

For more information, call the office at (956) 831-6331.

 

Legal Aid

 

Extended Foster Care– Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS)
Toll-free Intake Line: 888-988-9996

Extended Foster Care (EFC) is a voluntary program that offers young adults turning 18 in DFPS care opportunities to continue foster care placement and facilitate the transition to independence with DFPS supervision if there is an available placement. Young adults may stay for Extended Foster Care if they are:

• Attending high school or a program leading to a high school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate (GED)
• Attending college or other institutions of higher learning
• Participating in a program or activity that promotes or removes barriers to employment
• Employed for at least 80 hours a month
• Are incapable of doing any of the allowed activities described in Texas Family Code Sec. 264.101 (a-1) due to a documented medical condition

For more information, read the EFC pamphlet.

 

Loaves and Fishes
514 S. E Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-1014
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Loaves & Fishes offers help and hope to our community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling.

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes webpage at https://lfrgv.org/ and the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

 

Mujeres Unidas / Women Together
511 N. Cynthia St.
McAllen, Texas 78501
956-630-4878
24/7 Crisis Hotline 800-580-4879
[email protected]

Mujeres Unidas provides counseling for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Survivors are able to learn about the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault and safety planning. Mujeres Unidas is the only agency that provides Emergency Shelter and Support Services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Hidalgo County. Support services include:

• Crisis intervention counseling
• Safety planning
• Trauma-informed counseling
• Legal advocacy (accompaniment to law enforcement offices and court hearings)
• Transitional housing
• Hospital accompaniment for survivors of a sexual assault

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/mujeres.unidas.94.

 

Proyecto Juan Diego
3910 Paredes Line Rd
Brownsville, Texas 78526
(956) 542-2488
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

Proyecto Juan Diego provides low-income families support, guidance, and education in the areas of health, family, education, immigration, and civic engagement. Proyecto Juan Diego programs include:

• GED
• English classes
• Citizenship classes
• Immigration services
• Aerobics
• Diabetes Prevention Program
• Parenting classes, mother and child development
• Stress and anger management
• Tutorial and mentoring for youth
• Free counseling services
• Case management

For more information, call (956) 542-2488 to get documentation and program requirements, as different programs have different qualifications.

For more information on ongoing events, visit the webpage www.proyecto-jd.org and the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/proyectojuandiego.

 

Texas Foster Youth Justice Project c/o Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid
1111 N Main Ave
San Antonio, TX 78212
1-877-313-3688
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am -5:00 pm

Texas Foster Youth Justice Project provides legal support, guidance, and representation to current and former foster youth and helps foster youth address issues that may arise when aging out of the foster care system, such as:

• Financial
• Housing
• Employment
• Understanding and protecting their legal rights

Requests for information, referrals, or representation can be made anytime by email, via our website, or by phone. Intake interviews will be scheduled individually.

For more information, visit the website and social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/TRLegalAid/ and https://www.instagram.com/texasriograndelegalaid/.

 

 

Health Services

Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas (BHSST)
http://www.bhsst.org/

2301 Industrial Blvd.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956)-368-5557
Office Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:00 am-6:00 pm; Fridays 8:00 am-12:00 pm

The Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas currently offers outpatient treatment services for adults only (18 years of age and older) in Cameron County. These services are available to individuals who are suffering from a substance use disorder. BHSST is a Texas Department of State Health Services licensed treatment facility and can accept individuals who are insured through Medicaid or private pay. The program consists of:

• 12-week outpatient schedule
• 6 individual session
• 24 group sessions
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy curriculum featuring Motivational Interviewing techniques

For more information, call the office or visit the Facebook page https://www.Facebook.com/bhsofsouthtexas.

 

Good Neighbor Settlement House
1254 E. Tyler St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 542-2368
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Good Neighbor Settlement House is a nonprofit, multi-service agency that assists men, women, and children of Brownsville, TX., by providing:

• Nutritious meals
• Clothing
• Showers
• Support services

A medical doctor provides free consultations every Tuesday from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

To apply, please fill out the form located at https://www.goodneighborsettlement.org/ineedhelp or call the office at (956) 542-2368.

For information on ongoing events, visit the Good Neighbor Settlement House Instagram page.

 

Su Clinica Familiar (Medical/Dental)
105 E. Alton Gloor Blvd.
Brownsville, TX 78526
(956) 831-8338
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Su Clinica Familiar (Medical/Dental)                                                                                           1706 Treasure Hills Blvd.
Harlingen, TX 78550                                                                                                                                  (956) 365-6000
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Su Clinica is a community health center that offers comprehensive health services in pediatrics, adult medicine, women’s health, prenatal care, and behavioral health, among others. Su Clinica Familiar locations provide:

• Pediatrics Care
• Women’s Health Center
• Adult Medicine
• Dental
• On-site pharmacy
• Labwprl
• X-rays
• Night clinics
• Application assistance for government-provided services and insurance such as Medicaid, Medicare, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

To make an appointment, call (956) 831-8338.

For information on ongoing events, visit the Facebook page at https://gl-es.Facebook.com/SuClinicaBrownsville/.

 

Transportation

Brownsville Metro – ADA Paratransit Service
755 International Boulevard
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-Help  / 956-541-4881
Office Hours: Mon-Sat. 6:00 am-8:00 pm

Brownsville Metro connects communities by providing safe, innovative, reliable, and convenient multimodal transportation to advance the quality of life for all people. As the multimodal transportation department, Brownsville Metro provides fixed route bus services throughout the City of Brownsville, initiating from the downtown bus terminal with a bus transfer station on Ruben M. Torres Blvd. Most routes originate from La Plaza at Brownsville Terminal in downtown Brownsville (across from Texas Southmost College).

Brownsville Metro also provides ADA-compliant and Paratransit services to individuals with disabilities who are not able to ride the fixed route public transportation. To be eligible to use the curb-to-curb Paratransit Service, individuals must apply for a determination of eligibility.

For more details and/or qualification information, please get in touch with Paratransit Services at 956-541-8381 or [711 or 800-735-2989] (TTY—Texas Relay).

• Request for reservations will be accepted during normal business hours on a “next day” basis (not 24 hours in advance) all days prior to days of service.

The Special Transit Service fare is $1.50 for each one-way trip.

To view the bus routes, visit www.brownsvilletx.gov/617/Bus-Routes .

For more information, visit the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MMTBMetro/ 

 

 

Disability Services

 

SOCIAL SECURITY- STATEWIDE
https://www.ssa.gov/
Social Security Administration                                                                                                          2005 W. Jefferson Ave.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(866) 931-7075

Social Security pays a monthly benefit to workers who retire, become disabled, or dependents when a parent dies. Social Security benefits can help when you:

• Age and retire
• Can’t work because of a disability
• Lose a spouse (or a young child loses a parent)
• Have difficulty paying for essentials like food, clothing, and a home

To check for eligibility, complete the eligibility form located at https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/check-eligibility-for-benefits/questionnaire.

To apply for benefits, complete the online application located at https://www.ssa.gov/apply .

 

Texas Department of Health and Human Services
Blindness, Education, Screening & Treatment (BEST)
https://www.hhs.texas.gov/
701 W. 51^st Street
Austin, Texas 78751
512-438-2447
[email protected]

BEST provides free vision screenings and financial assistance to Texas residents for medically urgent eye treatment with a referral from an ophthalmologist. Those eligible for the program must be Texas residents at least 18 years of age without insurance or any other resource to pay for treatment, not be legally blind, and have a recommendation from an ophthalmologist.

For information on ongoing events, visit the BEST website at https://www.hhs.texas.gov/

 

Texas Southmost College- Counseling and Student Accessibility Resources
https://www.tsc.edu/office-of-student-life/mental-health-resources-off-campus-counseling-2/
Lightner Center, 102A
80 Fort Brown
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 295-3587
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

TSC Counseling and Student Accessibility Resource office provides free counseling to currently enrolled students. Services offered are individual, family, couples, substance abuse, and anger management counseling, as well as skill-building, communication, listening, assertiveness, time management, and organizational skills. Services provided are:

• Registration assistance
• Accommodation request forms for faculty
• Volunteer note takers
• Assistive technology training
• Alternate format textbooks
• Accessible classroom furniture arrangements
• Sign language interpreting
• Referrals to other campus/community resources
• Test accommodations such as extended time, readers, or scribes

*Accommodations are granted on a case-by-case basis and are contingent upon documentation from a qualified professional or self-report of needs.

To request services, call (956) 295-3587.

 

Texas Southmost College- Center for Academic Excellence
https://www.tsc.edu/cae/
North 122
80 Fort Brown
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 295-3587
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am-8:00 pm; Fri 8:00 am-5:00 pm; Sat. 10:00 am-2:00 pm

TSC Center for Academic Excellence provides students with learning resources, including tutoring and writing consultations, to help all TSC students succeed in their coursework. Peer tutoring services and review sessions are provided for math, reading, writing, and other subjects. Tutors are certified by the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) and have excellent communication skills and broad knowledge of the subjects they tutor.

Remote tutoring is also provided thru BrainFuse, an online tutoring service designed for a paperless campus. They provide immediate and scheduled online tutoring for all TSC students in a variety of subjects, including Composition, College Algebra, and Anatomy & Physiology, to name a few. Students may use their whiteboard feature to collaborate with online tutors, submit essays and questions for review, form online study groups with peers and instructors, and record live tutoring sessions to watch later. To access BrainFuse, students may go to their Canvas course and select the “BrainFuse” link at the bottom of the left-hand menu. Students may also download the BrainFuse app from the app store to access their services.

For more information or questions regarding tutoring services, call (956) 295-3790.

 

 

Veterans Assistance

American Legion- Nationwide
(800) 504-4098

The American Legion recognizes that families of deployed and activated military personnel face special difficulties and hardships. With the help of the Family Support Network, these families do not have to shoulder this burden alone. Families can request assistance from local American Legion family members by calling the toll-free number or filling out an online application.

The American Legion’s Legacy Scholarship provides college scholarship money to children of post-9/11 veterans who died on active duty, or have a combined VA disability rating of 50 percent or greater. The application period is Nov. 15 to April 15.

For more information or to join the American Legion, visit the webpage located at https://www.legion.org/.

 

Texas Southmost College- Veterans Success Center
Oliveira Student Services
80 Fort Brown
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 295-3682
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm

The mission of the TSC Veteran’s Success Center office is to support veterans and family members by providing resources to facilitate the transition from military to academic life. The center also provides an environment where veterans can gather to share experiences and support one another through the educational process. The following services are provided:

• Certification of Federal and State educational benefits for Veterans, Military and their dependents. (Ch. 30,31,33,35, 1606, and Hazelwood)
• Admissions application assistance
• Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA completion assistance
• Veterans Resource Center computer lab
• Study room
• VA work-study allowance program
• Veterans’ lounge

For eligibility requirements and documentation, visit the Veterans Education Benefit checklist at https://www.tsc.edu/assets/documents/departments/veterans/TSC_VA_Benefits_Checklist_Updated.pdf

To apply for benefits, visit the Veterans Success Center benefits webpage at https://www.tsc.edu/financial-aid/veterans-success-center/benefits/.

 

 

Mental Health Services

Friendship of Women, Inc.
95 E. Price Rd. Suite C
Brownsville, TX 78523
(956) 544-7412
[email protected]

The Friendship of Women serves men, women, and children impacted by family and sexual violence. All survivor services are free and confidential. Friendship of Women provides comprehensive services such as:

• Emergency shelter
• Crisis intervention
• Legal advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their families

Survivors may obtain individual and group therapy after a counselor determines what type of counseling services would be most beneficial. Counseling for adults and children is available free of charge at our Emergency Shelter and at our Community Outreach Center. Friendship of Women, Inc. counseling services are tailored to meet a survivor’s needs. Our clinical team is made up of two bilingual Licensed Professional Counselors with more than 25 years of combined experience working with survivors of family violence and sexual assault/childhood abuse.

For more information, call (956) 544-7412 or visit the FOW website and social media pages at https://www.facebook.com/Friendship.of.Women/ and https://twitter.com/fowinc.

 

Family Crisis Center
616 W. Taylor Ave.
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-9304
24-hour hotline (866)423-9304
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am -5:30 pm, Fri 8:30 am -3:30pm

Family Crisis Center, Inc. is a domestic violence and rape crisis center that provides services to victims and their families. All survivor services are free and confidential. Services include:

• 24-hour hotline
• Emergency shelter
• Legal Advocacy
• Peer support
• Crisis intervention
• Emergency transportation
• Counseling

For more information, visit the Family Crisis Center website and social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/familycrisisctr.cameron.willacy/.

 

Loaves and Fishes
514 S. E Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-1014
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Loaves & Fishes offers help and hope to our community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling.

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes webpage at https://lfrgv.org/ and Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

 

Mujeres Unidas / Women Together
511 N. Cynthia St.
McAllen, Texas 78501
956-630-4878
24/7 Crisis Hotline 800-580-4879
[email protected]

Mujeres Unidas provides counseling for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Survivors are able to learn about the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault and safety planning. Mujeres Unidas is the only agency that provides Emergency Shelter and Support Services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Hidalgo County. Support services include:

• Crisis intervention counseling
• Safety planning
• Trauma-informed counseling
• Legal advocacy (accompaniment to law enforcement offices and court hearings)
• Transitional housing
• Hospital accompaniment for survivors of a sexual assault

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/mujeres.unidas.94.

 

Proyecto Juan Diego
3910 Paredes Line Rd
Brownsville, Texas 78526
(956) 542-2488
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

Proyecto Juan Diego provides low-income families support, guidance, and education in the areas of health, family, education, immigration, and civic engagement. Proyecto Juan Diego programs include:

• GED
• English classes
• Citizenship classes
• Immigration services
• Aerobics
• Diabetes Prevention Program
• Parenting classes, mother and child development
• Stress and anger management
• Tutorial and mentoring for youth
• Free counseling services
• Case management

For more information, call (956) 542-2488 to get documentation and program requirements, as different programs have different qualifications.

For more information on ongoing events, visit the webpage www.proyecto-jd.org and Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/proyectojuandiego.

 

SOMOS Foundation
142 Paredes Line Rd. Suite C
Brownsville, TX 78521
(956) 460-7944
[email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00 am -5:30 pm, Fri 8:30 am -3:30pm

The SOMOS Foundation is a community-based organization that provides faith-based counseling and coaching services for families and teenagers. They provide

• Couples/marriage counseling
• Teen counseling
• Life skills workshops, such as time management and wellness

To make an appointment, call (956) 460-7944.

For more information, visit the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/somos.integracionfamiliar/.