Senior benefits in Washington County, Texas

Washington County's energy bill help (CEAP) is run by Brazos Valley Community Action Programs (BVCAP) from its office at 4001 E 29th St in Bryan. It helps pay electric, natural gas and propane bills. Applications are taken by appointment only, online or in person, and the process restarts every January 1st — even for people helped in past years. Call 979-595-2850 to reach the utility assistance office.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,600 a year

Washington County operates a referral-and-coordination emergency aid framework: (1) BVCAA for CEAP utility (979-690-0921); (2) BVCOG AAA for senior services (979-595-2800); (3) Washington County CIHCP for healthcare (979-277-6200); (4) BTD for transportation (979-778-0607); (5) Catholic Charities of Brazos Valley; (6) Salvation Army Bryan. Dial 211 for general referrals.

Estimated bill savings: $100–$1,800 a year

The Washington County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) is required by Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 61 for low-income residents. Eligibility: Washington County resident age 18+; household income less than 21% of the Federal Poverty Level; not Medicaid-eligible. PRIMARY HOSPITAL: CHI St. Joseph Health Brenham. CHI St. Joseph Health and Baylor Scott & White (Bryan-College Station) are the regional tertiary referral hospitals — both have Patient Financial Assistance Programs (typically 200% FPL or broader). Apply by calling Washington County at 979-277-6200.

Estimated bill savings: $1,000–$18,000 a year

In this county: Washington CIHCP at 21% FPL — very strict. CHI St. Joseph Health Brenham. CHI St. Joseph and Baylor Scott & White Bryan-College Station are the tertiary referrals.

BVCOG AAA serves Washington County seniors age 60+ and their caregivers as part of its 7-county Brazos Valley region (Brazos, Burleson, Grimes, Leon, Madison, Robertson, Washington). Services include Title III Congregate Meals + Home-Delivered Meals, Benefits Counseling (HICAP/SHIP Medicare), Care Coordination, Caregiver Support, and Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Apply by calling BVCOG AAA at 979-595-2806 (toll-free 800-994-4000).

Estimated service value: $1,200–$4,500 a year

Brazos Transit District (BTD) is the principal rural transit operator serving Washington County and the broader Brazos Valley. In Bryan-College Station, BTD operates 'The District' fixed-route bus service. Across the rural counties, BTD provides demand-response transit. Seniors qualify for reduced fares. Advance reservation typically required for demand-response. Apply at btd.org or by calling 979-778-0607.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year