Senior benefits in Austin County, Texas

Austin County's emergency aid framework operates through referral coordination: (1) Combined Community Action (CCA) for CEAP utility assistance (979-540-2987); (2) H-GAC AAA for senior services (713-627-3200); (3) Austin County CIHCP for healthcare (979-865-3911); (4) United Way Greater Houston / 211 for general referrals; (5) faith-based partners (Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, local churches).

$200–$2,500/yr

Austin County's CEAP is delivered through Combined Community Action (CCA). The agency provides utility bill payment assistance for electric, gas, and propane; energy crisis assistance for shutoffs; and energy education. Eligibility at 150% FPL. Apply at https://www.ccaction.com/family-services or by calling 979-540-2987.

$200–$1,600/yr

The Austin County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) is required by Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 61 for low-income residents who don't qualify for other state or federal healthcare programs. Eligibility: Austin County resident age 18+; household income less than 21% of the Federal Poverty Level (the Texas statutory minimum); not Medicaid-eligible. CIHCP covers physician services, lab/x-ray, three prescriptions per month, inpatient and outpatient hospital services through participating providers. PRIMARY HOSPITALS: Bellville Medical Center is the local hospital; many residents use Houston/Fort Bend hospitals. For Austin residents above 21% FPL, the dominant hospital's Patient Financial Assistance Program (typically at 200% FPL) is the broader pathway. Apply by calling Austin County at 979-865-3911.

$1,200–$22,000/yr

In this county: The 21% FPL gate is the Texas statutory minimum — extremely strict. Only Austin residents at or near SSI income levels qualify. Bellville Medical Center is the local hospital; many residents use Houston/Fort Bend hospitals. For Austin residents above 21% FPL, each dominant private hospital's own Financial Assistance Program (typically 200% FPL) is the broader pathway.

H-GAC serves Austin County seniors as part of its 12-county Houston region AAA — DISTINCT from the Harris County AAA which is operated separately by the Houston Health Department. H-GAC AAA delivers Title III congregate meals, Home-Delivered Meals for homebound seniors age 60+, Information Referral and Assistance, Benefits Counseling (HICAP/SHIP), Care Coordination, Caregiver Support, In-Home Support, Ombudsman services, and ADRC intake. Apply by calling the Statewide TX AAA line at 855-937-2372 or the H-GAC AAA directly at 713-627-3200.

$1,500–$5,000/yr

Public transit serving Austin County operates through Colorado Valley Transit District (CVTD) — rural demand-response transit serving Austin, Colorado, Fayette, Lavaca, and Wharton counties. Seniors AGE 60+ typically qualify for reduced or free fares depending on the operator and route. Demand-response service requires advance reservations (typically 24-48 hours). For specific schedule, route, and fare information call 979-732-6162 or visit the operator website.

$300–$2,200/yr