Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. I hope you're doing as well as you can today. If life just got hard, or it's been hard for a while, I'm really glad you found this. You are not alone, and there's more help in Texas than most people know about.
This is the place to start. In a few pages, we'll walk through the first calls to make, how help usually works here, and which of our 14 guides fits what you need right now.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a bed, money or a spot in any program.
- Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.
- Everything here is at no cost. No sign up, no paywall.
When everything feels urgent, it helps to sort it out. Here's a simple order that works for a lot of people.
Your first steps, in order
- Are you safe right now? If not, call 911. If you're hurting inside, call or text 988.
- Do you have a safe place to sleep tonight? If not, start with Guide 2, Emergency Shelter Tonight.
- Do you have food for today? If not, dial 211 and see Guide 4, Food.
- Charge your phone and screenshot the key numbers at the back of this guide.
- Pick the one thing that matters most this week and make one call about it.
- Write down who you talked to and when to call back.
You don't have to fix everything today. Just take the next step, and then the one after that.
From the Bunklow team
What is 211, and how does it work?
211 is a no cost phone line that connects you with local help. A real person answers, and they can point you to help paying bills, food, housing, crisis support and more.
Just dial 211 from any phone in Texas, or call 877.541.7905. You can also search or chat at https://www.211texas.org/
- It's at no cost and open day and night.
- Tell them your city or ZIP and what you need most.
- Ask for names, numbers and hours, and write them down.
- If the first idea doesn't work, call back and ask for another.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.211texas.org/
What to say when you call 211
"Hi. I'm in [city or ZIP]. I need help with [shelter, food, rent, a ride, a phone]."
"What's open today, and what are the hours?"
"Do I need to bring anything?"
"If that doesn't work out, who else can I call?"
Which guide do I need?
We made 14 guides for Texas. Here's what each one covers, so you can jump right to it.
- Guide 1, Start Here. This one. First steps and how help works.
- Guide 2, Emergency Shelter Tonight. Finding a safe place to sleep, what shelters are like, and what to do if they're full.
- Guide 3, Housing Help. Rent help, vouchers, Coordinated Entry and tips for renters.
- Guide 4, Food. Food today, SNAP, WIC and food banks.
- Guide 5, Clothing and Hygiene. No cost clothes, showers, laundry and hygiene items.
- Guide 6, Jobs and Job Training. Career centers, resumes and training.
- Guide 7, Health and Mental Health. Clinics, Medicaid and crisis help.
- Guide 8, Domestic Violence Safety and Housing. Safe, private help and shelter.
- Guide 9, Veterans. VA help, benefits and housing for Veterans.
- Guide 10, Youth and Young Adults. Help for young people on their own.
- Guide 11, Getting ID and Documents Back. Birth certificates, Texas ID cards and Social Security cards.
- Guide 12, Phones and Internet. Lifeline discounts, no cost WiFi and low cost internet.
- Guide 13, Legal and Tenant Help. No cost legal aid and help for renters.
- Guide 14, How to Make Blessing Bags. A simple way to help others.
How do I apply for benefits like SNAP and Medicaid?
In Texas, food benefits (SNAP), Medicaid, CHIP for children and cash help (TANF) all go through Texas Health and Human Services. You can apply online, and applying is always at no cost.
- Apply and manage your case at Your Texas Benefits, https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home You can also use the Your Texas Benefits app.
- Food benefits come on a Lone Star Card, which works like a debit card at most grocery stores.
- Lost, stolen or not working? Call the Lone Star Card Help Desk at 800.777.7328 right away to cancel it and ask for a new one. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/lone-star-card/lone-star-card-faq
Say you just lost your job in Houston
Say your hours were cut and money is suddenly tight. You could apply for SNAP and Medicaid at Your Texas Benefits the same day, then apply for unemployment with the Texas Workforce Commission and look for job help at a Workforce Solutions office (see Guide 6).
If rent is the worry, you could dial 211 and ask about rent help in Harris County, and read Guide 3 for your options.
This is an example to show how it can go. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different.
How do I get my ID and papers back?
So many things need an ID, so it's worth starting early. Here are the three big ones.
Guide 11 has the details.
- Birth certificate. You can order a copy from Texas Vital Statistics at the Department of State Health Services, or from the local registrar or county clerk where you were born. DSHS says a homeless child or youth, and young people in foster care, can get a certified copy without a fee when they send proof of status, such as a school or shelter attestation form. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vital-statistics/check-order-status/requirements-mail-person-orders
- Texas ID card. The Department of Public Safety issues ID cards that last up to six years. A new ID is $16 if you are 59 or younger, and $6 if you are 60 or older. If you don't have two papers that show your address, a homeless shelter or nonprofit can give you a notarized letter or a notarized DL 5 form that confirms where you get services and mail. Sources: https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees and https://www.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/forms/dl-5.pdf
- Social Security card. The Social Security Administration explains how to replace a lost card, often online for adults. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ssa.gov/number-card
Keep a simple folder or phone album
How do I stay connected?
A working phone makes every other step easier. Guide 12 has more.
- Texas Lifeline lowers the monthly cost of phone service. If you qualify, the discount can be up to $12.75 a month, which is up to $9.25 in federal support plus up to $3.50 from Texas. You may qualify through SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or other programs, or by income. Apply at https://www.texaslifeline.org/ or call 866.454.8387. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.texaslifeline.org/faq
- EveryoneOn is a no cost search tool for low cost internet offers and computers. Search by ZIP at https://www.everyoneon.org/
- Public libraries have no cost computers and WiFi. Library numbers are in the county list.
Write it down
Keep a short list of every place you call, the time, and what they said. It makes call backs faster and way less stressful.
Where can I get help right away?
- In danger right now: call 911.
- Thinking about suicide or in emotional crisis: call or text 988. It's at no cost, private and open 24/7.
- Being hurt by a partner: the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800.799.7233, or text START to 88788. Every Texas county also has a 24/7 mental health crisis line. The county numbers are in the Texas list below.
- Veterans: the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans is 877.424.3838, and the Veterans Crisis Line is 988, then press 1.
- Young people: 1 800 RUNAWAY is 1.800.786.2929.
Questions people ask a lot
Is all of this really at no cost?
Yes. These guides are at no cost, and the programs we list don't charge to apply. Be careful of anyone who asks for money to help you apply for benefits.
What if I don't have a phone?
Ask a library, day center or shelter if you can use theirs. Libraries also have no cost computers and WiFi.
What if I don't have an ID?
Start the process early. See Guide 11. Many places can still help you while you work on it.
What if nobody calls me back?
Call again. It's okay to be politely persistent. Ask if there's a better time or another number.
Who is Bunklow?
We're a team that cares about affordable living. We made these guides no cost for anyone who needs them. We don't run these programs. We don't manage properties.
Can I share this guide?
Please do! Share it with anyone who could use it.
I'm really glad you're here
Reaching out is a strong thing to do. If you have questions, please let me know. We're happy to help however we can!
Here are good first calls near you. If your county isn't listed, dial 211.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
What it offers No cost, private support 24/7 for anyone facing emotional distress, mental health struggles or alcohol or drug concerns, and for people supporting someone they love.
How to reach Call or text 988. Chat at https://988lifeline.org/
Source https://988lifeline.org/
Last checked October 16, 2026
National Domestic Violence Hotline
What it offers No cost, private support 24/7 for anyone hurt or threatened by a partner. Advocates can help you make a safety plan and find local programs and shelter.
How to reach Call 800.799.7233. Text START to 88788. Chat at https://www.thehotline.org/
Source https://www.thehotline.org/
Last checked October 16, 2026
VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
What it offers No cost, private calls 24/7 for Veterans who are homeless or at risk, and for people calling on their behalf. Staff connect you to your nearest VA homeless program.
How to reach Call 877.424.3838.
Source https://department.va.gov/homeless/
Last checked October 16, 2026
HUD Approved Housing Counseling
What it offers Low or no cost counselors who can help with renting, avoiding eviction or foreclosure, and budgeting.
How to reach Call 800.569.4287 to find a counselor near you.
Source https://www.hud.gov/stat/sfh/housing-counseling
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Texas
Here are some places to start.
211 Texas
What it offers A no cost service from Texas Health and Human Services that connects people with food, housing, mental health, benefits and other help. You can also chat online in English or Spanish.
How to reach Dial 211 or 877.541.7905. Search at https://www.211texas.org/
Source https://www.211texas.org/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Your Texas Benefits
What it offers Apply online for SNAP food benefits, Medicaid, CHIP and other help from Texas Health and Human Services, and manage your case.
How to reach Apply at https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home
Source https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home
Last checked October 16, 2026
Texas local mental health crisis lines
What it offers Every Texas county has a 24/7 crisis line run by its local mental health authority, with crisis assessment and follow up. Harris: 866.970.4770. Dallas: 866.260.8000. Tarrant: 800.866.2465. Bexar: 800.316.9241. Travis: 512.472.4357. Collin: 877.422.5939. Denton: 800.762.0157. Hidalgo: 877.289.7199. El Paso: 877.562.6467. Fort Bend: 800.633.5686.
How to reach See every county at https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/mental-health-substance-use/mental-health-crisis-services
Source https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/mental-health-substance-use/mental-health-crisis-services
Last checked October 16, 2026
TexasLawHelp
What it offers No cost legal information for Texans, with guides, forms and a list of no cost legal clinics, plus help with eviction and rent relief.
How to reach Start at https://www.texaslawhelp.org/
Source https://www.texaslawhelp.org/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Harris County (Houston)
Here are some places to start.
Coalition for the Homeless: The Way Home
What it offers Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, with a no wrong door approach. The Coalition does not offer onsite services. If you need help now, call 211.
How to reach Dial 211. Find help at https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Source https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Dallas County
Here are some places to start.
Housing Forward Crisis Helpline (Dallas)
What it offers Connects people to shelter, outreach teams, housing support and community resources. For non emergency city help, call 311.
How to reach Call 888.411.6802.
Source https://dallascityhall.com/departments/housing-and-homelessness/Pages/get-support.aspx
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Tarrant County (Fort Worth)
Here are some places to start.
Partnership Home: Coordinated Entry (Tarrant County)
What it offers Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness in Fort Worth and Tarrant County.
How to reach Learn how to get help at https://partnershiphome.org/systemresponse/coordinated-entry/ or dial 211.
Source https://partnershiphome.org/systemresponse/coordinated-entry/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Bexar County (San Antonio)
Here are some places to start.
Haven for Hope
What it offers A campus in San Antonio with shelter and many services for people experiencing homelessness. 1 Haven for Hope Way.
How to reach Main office: 210.220.2100.
Source https://www.havenforhope.org/get-help/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Close to Home (San Antonio)
What it offers San Antonio's guide to homeless services and resources, including help for youth and families.
How to reach Find resources at https://closetohomesa.org/find-resources/
Source https://closetohomesa.org/find-resources/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Travis County (Austin)
Here are some places to start.
ECHO: Get Help (Austin and Travis County)
What it offers A good first step toward stable housing is a Coordinated Assessment, the community's central housing application. ECHO does not run housing itself but connects you to it.
How to reach Learn how to get assessed at https://www.austinecho.org/get-help/
Source https://www.austinecho.org/get-help/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Collin County
Here are some places to start.
The Samaritan Inn
What it offers Shelter, case management and life skills programs for single adults and families experiencing homelessness in Collin County. Interviews are first come, first served, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, at 1514 N. McDonald Street, McKinney.
How to reach Call 972.542.5302.
Source https://saminn.org/become-a-resident/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Denton County
Here are some places to start.
United Way of Denton County: Find Help
What it offers Resource navigation for people facing homelessness or a housing crisis in Denton County. 1314 Teasley Lane, Denton. Monday to Thursday, 9:30 am to noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
How to reach Call 940.566.5851. Mental Health Navigators: call or text LINK to 940.349.3000.
Source https://www.unitedwaydenton.org/find-help
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Hidalgo County
Here are some places to start.
Hidalgo County Urban County Program: Coordinated Entry
What it offers Runs the Emergency Solutions Grant and the Coordinated Entry process in Hidalgo County.
How to reach Call 956.787.8127 or 866.613.5277.
Source https://www.hidalgocounty.us/2306/Emergency-Solutions-Grant-ESG
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
El Paso County
Here are some places to start.
City of El Paso Community and Homeless Assistance
What it offers Navigators help with resources, case management, basic needs referrals and housing stabilization. Street outreach social workers are available 24/7.
How to reach Navigator line: 915.400.7401. Office: 915.212.0138.
Source https://www.elpasotexas.gov/community-and-human-development/community-and-homeless-assistance/
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Fort Bend County
Here are some places to start.
Coalition for the Homeless: The Way Home
What it offers Coordinated Entry for people experiencing homelessness in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, with a no wrong door approach. The Coalition does not offer onsite services. If you need help now, call 211.
How to reach Dial 211. Find help at https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Source https://www.cfthhouston.org/coordinated-entry
Last checked October 16, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
My first steps plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
What matters most right now
Calls I made
Key numbers to keep
Please let me know if you have any questions
If something here is out of date, tell us and we'll fix it. Make it a great day, friend!
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 16, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Affordable living. Simplified
