Basic Needs – Helping you live better

We provide food, rent, utilities, medication and emergency financial assistance and support services aimed at returning families and individuals to self-sufficiency. As we help relieve the overwhelming stress that comes from the lack of basic needs, those in crisis are better able to work towards self-sufficiency.

To read more about all the programs and services we offer to meet the needs of our communities, click here to read or download our services brochure.

Services offered

• Food pantry assistance once every thirty (30) days

• Referrals provided to appropriate community resources

• Intensive case management

• Employment assistance

• Financial assistance

• Shelter

• Individual and Group Counseling (for clients in programs only)

• Transportation assistance (for clients in programs only)

• HIV Education

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be 18 years of age or over

• Must have photo ID, proof of address, and income verification, and must fall within the HUD income guidelines.

• Clients must have a vacate notice or an eviction notice in order to qualify for rent/mortgage assistance. For mortgage assistance, clients must be at least two months in arrears. A letter from the mortgage company is required stating that client is in arrears. Clients must have a cut-off notice for utility assistance.

• For Veteran program must provide DD-214

• For AIDS Ministry program must show current proof of HIV+ status

• For the Villa, must be homeless and provide written documentation of homeless status. Cannot have more than three children eight and under.

Service Area/Location

Services are provided at the Guadalupe Center located at 326 S. Jensen Drive, Houston, TX 77003

Volunteer Opportunities

• Hosting a food drive or school supply drive

• Sponsoring a family for a holiday project

• Volunteering to answer the phones, entering data into the data management system, and/or greeting clients coming to the program

• Collecting canned and dried goods for the community food pantry

• Donating diapers and baby formula

• Assisting with yard work and grounds maintenance

• Making “move-in” baskets with cleaning supplies and linens

• Donating toiletries such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, and toilet paper for men and women

• Donating make-up and clothing for women entering the workforce

• Collecting bedding and towels

• Donating school supplies and/or toys that are age appropriate for the children

• Assisting with childcare during group meetings

Access services/More info

713.227.9981

Harris County Community
Services Department and
Department of Housing and
Urban Development