Help in Texas
For people starting over after prison, foster care, treatment, homelessness, abuse, or trafficking
We've verified 24 places in Texas, most of them in Houston, Austin and Dallas, plus 11 that serve the whole state. The most help we've found here is for people leaving homelessness (14) and after prison or jail (10).
2-1-1 Texas
Free information and referral line for food, housing, health care, utility help and other local services anywhere in Texas. Dial 2-1-1 or the toll-free number, or use the English or Spanish live chat on the website.
Haven for Hope
San Antonio homeless campus with a low-barrier South Campus shelter and a North Campus transformational program for Bexar County residents. New arrivals are handled on a walk-in basis at the Intake Building during weekday business hours.
Communities for Recovery
Austin recovery community organization offering peer support, a support-group meetup calendar and free naloxone training. Open into the evening on weekdays and on Saturdays.
The Council on Recovery
Houston nonprofit providing outpatient substance use treatment, prevention, recovery coaching referrals and recovery meetings regardless of ability to pay. A staffed chat line runs on weekday business hours.
Star of Hope Mission
Houston shelter operating a Men's Development Center at 1811 Ruiz St. and a Women and Family Development Center at 2575 Reed Rd. Stays run from one night to 18 months; no ID is needed to get in, and long-term housing requires sobriety.
Your Texas Benefits
The state's online portal to apply for SNAP food benefits, TANF cash help, Medicaid and CHIP health coverage, WIC, and support services. Applications can also be made at an HHSC benefit office or community partner.
National lines that work in Texas
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referral for substance use and mental health. Finds local programs that take your insurance or none.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 confidential hotline for survivors of trafficking and people who suspect it. Connects to vetted local services.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 confidential help for anyone affected by domestic violence. Advocates connect you to local shelters and legal help.
Start right where you are
Each program has a step-by-step checklist for the first 72 hours, 30 days, and 90 days, so you always know your next step.