How to apply for South Texas Development Council (STDC) — CEAP Energy Assistance (Zapata County)
South Texas Development Council (STDC) — regional council of governments in Laredo whose Community Action Program is the TDHCA Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) subrecipient for Jim Hogg, Starr and Zapata counties (TDHCA Subrecipient Contact List, 2026-02-02)
Who it's for
Zapata County's energy bill help (CEAP) is run by the South Texas Development Council (STDC) Community Action Program in Laredo. CEAP gives priority to households with the highest energy needs — a high energy burden or a household member who is elderly, disabled or a child aged 5 or younger — and offers utility payment assistance, repair of existing heating and cooling units, crisis purchase of portable heating and cooling units, energy education and budget counseling. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. Apply through STDC's online intake portal (linked from its Community Services page) or call 956-722-3995; the TDHCA CEAP line is 800-525-0657.
South Texas Development Council is the TDHCA CEAP subrecipient for Zapata County (TDHCA Help for Texans lookup and the TDHCA Subrecipient Contact List updated 2026-02-02, checked 2026-09-25). Funds are limited and run out during the program year, so apply early. Subrecipient assignments can change between program years — confirm with TDHCA at 800-525-0657 if unsure.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof of all household income
- Current energy bill
- Photo identification
- Proof of Zapata County residency
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 956-722-3995
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about South Texas Development Council (STDC) — CEAP Energy Assistance (Zapata County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of all household income, current energy bill, photo identification — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
up to multiple benefits per program year
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.
