Help Is on the Way: Supplemental Federal Community Services Block Grant Brings $42.7 Million to Texas Families and Businesses

Community Action Agencies in Texas to manage funds.  The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act authorized the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) program to increase assistance to Texans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Community Action Agencies (or CSBG-designated entities) in Texas will distribute an additional $42.7 million from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), which oversees the funds.  CSBG helps struggling Texas families become self-sufficient.  CAAs and their local partners will use the CARES Act funding to assist those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for maximum impact.

The Texas Association of Community Action Agencies is grateful to Congress and the Texas delegation for the supplemental funds and entrusting these Texas agencies with the local management of these critical dollars.

Local communities control CSBG dollars.  Accountability matters.  Community Action Agencies and other providers will ensure effective use of these funds and report all expenditures and provide clear outcomes to TDHCA.

Benefits and eligibility.  CSBG helps families and communities recover from the impact of the pandemic.  Eligible families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic may receive assistance for basic needs and emergency services, such as utilities, medical costs, rent, transportation, food, and child or senior care.  Local organizations use funds to support programs serving low-income individuals and families, including seniors and people with disabilities.

To be eligible for services, Texas households must earn no more than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.  In 2020, this is $52,400 per year for a family of four.

Timing.  TDHCA has made funds available to local Community Action Agencies to get services to Texas families and communities as fast as possible.

How to connect constituents to help.  Texans interested in learning more about basic assistance can get connected to their local Community Action Agency at http://tacaa.org/services-map.