Grants for Seniors in San Antonio

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in San Antonio, Texas (2026 Guide)

Last updated:

This guide pulls together the most reliable help for older adults in San Antonio and Bexar County: rent and housing, home repairs, food, healthcare, utilities, transportation, and legal support. Every link goes to an official or well‑established source.

Key Takeaways

  • For quick referrals in San Antonio, dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Texas for local food, rent, and bill‑pay help.
  • Most benefits run through Your Texas Benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings), the Bexar Area Agency on Aging (caregiver support, Medicare counseling, meals), and city/utility programs (home repairs, bill discounts).
  • Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some repair programs—apply early, join multiple lists, and ask for alternatives while you wait.
  • Property tax relief for homeowners 65+ can lower your bill or allow you to defer payment; interest accrues on deferrals.
  • Beware of scams. No one can “guarantee” approval for a fee. Use the official links in this guide.

If You Need Emergency Help

How to use this guide: Start with the Quick‑Start Directory, then jump to your need—money and food, housing, repairs, healthcare, utilities, transportation, legal help, or specialized resources for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, seniors with disabilities, tribal members, and rural seniors.


Quick‑Start Directory (Apply Here First)

NeedBest first stopWhat to do
State benefits (SNAP, TSAP for seniors, Medicaid, Medicare Savings, caregiver programs)Your Texas Benefits (Texas Health & Human Services)Apply or manage benefits at Your Texas Benefits (https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/). For SNAP info: SNAP & TSAP (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits).
Local aging help (caregiver support, meals, Medicare counseling)Bexar Area Agency on Aging (part of AACOG)Learn about services and request help at Bexar Area Agency on Aging (https://www.aacog.com/aaad).
Rent vouchers and public housingLocal housing authority + HUD directoryCheck local Public Housing Agency contacts via HUD PHA directory (Texas list) (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts). Many San Antonio programs run through Opportunity Home San Antonio (see PHA directory).
Affordable apartments (no voucher)TDHCA Housing Resource CenterSearch income‑restricted apartments using TDHCA Housing Search (https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/).
Home repairs & weatherizationUSDA Section 504; TDHCA WeatherizationUSDA Section 504 home repair (62+) (https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx) and TDHCA Weatherization Assistance Program (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/).
Utility billsTDHCA CEAP; your utility providerLearn how to apply via TDHCA CEAP overview (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/). Check CPS Energy assistance (https://www.cpsenergy.com/en/my-home/savenow/rebates-programs/assistance-programs.html) and SAWS Uplift (https://www.saws.org/assistance/).
MealsMeals on Wheels San AntonioRequest home‑delivered meals via Meals on Wheels San Antonio (https://www.mowsatx.org/).
Legal aidTRLA (local), statewide networkTexas RioGrande Legal Aid (San Antonio region) (https://www.trla.org/). Also see Lone Star Legal Aid (https://www.lonestarlegal.org/) and Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas (https://internet.lanwt.org/).

Context: Many Texas programs use Federal Poverty Guidelines for income limits. See current guidelines at HealthCare.gov (https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/federal-poverty-level-FPL/). Always confirm details on official pages before applying.


Money and Food Help

SNAP and TSAP (Simplified SNAP for Seniors)

Meals on Wheels San Antonio

San Antonio Food Assistance

  • Food bank: San Antonio Food Bank (https://safoodbank.org/) provides food distributions and helps with SNAP applications. Use their “Find Help” tools or call 2‑1‑1 for nearby pantries.

Limited Cash Help for Kinship Caregivers

Property Tax Savings (Homeowners 65+)

Phone & Internet Discounts

  • Lifeline: Monthly discount on phone or internet for low‑income households. Eligibility and application at Lifeline Support (https://www.lifelinesupport.org/).
  • ACP ended in 2024: Ask your provider about their own low‑cost plan for seniors.

Housing and Rent Help in San Antonio

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing

  • What it is: Vouchers help pay a portion of rent in private apartments; public housing offers subsidized units.
  • Where to apply: Most vouchers and public housing in San Antonio are administered by the local housing authority. Find official contacts via HUD’s PHA directory (Texas) (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts). Also check TDHCA’s Section 8 page for limited state‑run areas (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/).
  • Reality check: Waitlists often open briefly and can be long. Apply to multiple lists, including smaller nearby cities, and check monthly for openings.

Affordable Apartments (No Voucher Needed)

  • What it is: Apartments built with Low‑Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) offer below‑market rents; many properties are designated for 55+ or 62+.
  • Where to search: TDHCA’s Housing Resource Center search tool (https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/).
  • Tip: Ask managers about “senior set‑asides,” income limits, current rents, and any waiting lists.

Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA)

  • What it is: Rental assistance linked to services for people with disabilities, including some older adults with qualifying disabilities.
  • Learn more: TDHCA Section 811 PRA (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-811-pra/).
  • Reality check: Strict eligibility and limited properties. Ask the Bexar Area Agency on Aging or ADRC for help with referrals.

Homelessness Prevention and Shelter

  • Coordinated Entry & shelters: Call 2‑1‑1 for your local Continuum of Care access point. Use HUD’s Find Shelter (https://www.hud.gov/findshelter) for emergency options.
  • Haven for Hope: Comprehensive campus with services for people experiencing homelessness in San Antonio. Learn more at Haven for Hope (https://www.havenforhope.org/).
  • Veterans: Contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (877‑424‑3838) and the VA’s homelessness resources (https://www.va.gov/homeless/).

Housing Programs Snapshot

ProgramWhat it coversWho it helpsWhere to apply/check
Section 8 HCVPays portion of rent in private unitsLow‑income households; priority often for seniors/people with disabilitiesHUD PHA directory (Texas) (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts) and TDHCA HCV (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/)
Public HousingSubsidized units owned by housing authoritiesLow‑income seniors/householdsLocal housing authority via HUD PHA directory
LIHTC ApartmentsReduced rents in qualified properties, some 55+/62+Income‑eligible tenantsTDHCA Housing Search (https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/)
Section 811 PRARent help tied to disability servicesLow‑income with qualifying disabilityTDHCA Section 811 PRA (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-811-pra/)
Property Tax Relief (65+)Exemption and deferral optionsHomeowners 65+Texas Comptroller exemptions (https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/)

Reality check: San Antonio’s rental market is tight. While you wait on a voucher, look for LIHTC apartments and ask about subsidized senior buildings. Also ask churches and charities about short‑term help.


Home Repairs, Accessibility, and Weatherization

City of San Antonio Home Repair Programs

  • What they do: The City’s Neighborhood & Housing Services Department (NHSD) offers owner‑occupied home repair and rehab programs that may include roof replacement, accessibility modifications (ramps, grab bars), and critical systems repairs.
  • Where to start: Visit City of San Antonio Neighborhood & Housing Services (https://www.sanantonio.gov/nhsd) and look for “Home Repair” or “Owner‑Occupied Rehabilitation” programs.
  • Reality check: Funding windows open and close; strict income and residency rules apply. Apply early each year and sign up for notifications.

USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • What it is: No‑cost energy efficiency upgrades (insulation, air sealing, HVAC tune‑ups) to lower utility bills.
  • Who qualifies: Income‑based; seniors and people with disabilities get priority.
  • Apply: TDHCA Weatherization (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/).

Nonprofit Repair Partners

Home Repair & Weatherization at a Glance

ProgramTypical helpSenior priorityWhere to start
City of San Antonio (NHSD)Roofs, accessibility, critical repairs (varies)OftenCity of San Antonio NHSD (https://www.sanantonio.gov/nhsd)
USDA Section 504 (62+)Health/safety repairs; small grants and low‑interest loansYes (62+)USDA Section 504 in Texas (https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx)
Weatherization (WAP)Insulation, air sealing, minor HVACPriority to seniors/disabledTDHCA WAP (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/)
Habitat for HumanityCritical home repairs, ramps, roofsOftenHabitat Texas affiliates (https://habitattexas.org/find-your-local-affiliate/)
Rebuilding TogetherSafety and accessibility modificationsOftenRebuilding Together—Apply (https://rebuildingtogether.org/apply)

Reality check: Most repair programs are not emergency plumbers or roofers. If you have an urgent issue, call your utility about safety shut‑offs and ask 2‑1‑1 about emergency charities while your applications process.


Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Free Medicare Counseling (HICAP/SHIP)

Medicaid for the Elderly & People with Disabilities (MEPD) and STAR+PLUS

PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

Help with Medicare Costs

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

Mental Health and Substance Use

Healthcare Cost Helpers (Summary)

HelpWhat it coversWhere to apply
MEPD Medicaid (65+)Health coverage; may include long‑term servicesTexas MEPD (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities)
STAR+PLUS HCBSIn‑home services for nursing‑home level of careApply via MEPD; HHSC assesses
Medicare Savings ProgramsPart A/B premiums and cost‑sharingHHSC Medicare help (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare)
Extra Help (Part D)Lowers prescription drug costsSocial Security Extra Help (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/)
PACEAll‑in‑one care with transportPACE finder (https://www.medicare.gov/)
HICAP/SHIPFree, unbiased Medicare counselingHHSC Medicare info (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare)

Utilities and Water Bill Help

CPS Energy (Electric & Gas)

  • Assistance programs: Affordability Discount Program, payment plans, Residential Energy Assistance Partnership (REAP) and more.
  • Where to start: CPS Energy Assistance Programs (https://www.cpsenergy.com/en/my-home/savenow/rebates-programs/assistance-programs.html).
  • Tips: If someone in the home relies on electrically powered medical equipment, ask about “critical care” or “medical baseline” accommodations and protection from disconnection with documentation.

SAWS (San Antonio Water System)

  • Assistance: SAWS Uplift offers bill discounts and emergency aid for income‑qualifying customers.
  • Where to apply: SAWS Uplift and assistance programs (https://www.saws.org/assistance/).

State Energy Help

  • CEAP: The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program helps with electric/gas bills, deposits, and crisis disconnections for eligible households. Learn and find a local provider at TDHCA CEAP (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/).
  • Weatherization (WAP): Reduces bills long‑term; see above.

Phone & Internet

  • Lifeline: Discount on phone or internet service for qualifying households (https://www.lifelinesupport.org/).
  • ACP ended in 2024; ask your provider for senior/low‑income plans.

Utility Help Options

Program/ProviderWhat it coversWhere to apply
CEAP (TDHCA)Electric/gas bills, crisis help, depositsTDHCA CEAP (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/)
WAP (TDHCA)Home efficiency upgradesTDHCA WAP (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/)
CPS EnergyBill discounts, REAP, payment plansCPS Energy assistance (https://www.cpsenergy.com/en/my-home/savenow/rebates-programs/assistance-programs.html)
SAWSUplift bill discounts and emergency aidSAWS assistance (https://www.saws.org/assistance/)
LifelineDiscount on phone/internetLifeline Support (https://www.lifelinesupport.org/)

Reality check: Utility funds can run out during peak seasons. If a program says “out of funds,” ask when to reapply and request a payment plan in the meantime.


Transportation

VIA Metropolitan Transit (San Antonio)

  • Seniors 62+ may qualify for reduced fares; VIAtrans provides door‑to‑door paratransit for eligible riders with disabilities.
  • Learn more and plan trips: VIA Metropolitan Transit (https://www.viainfo.net/).
  • Tip: Keep your Medicare or state ID when applying for reduced fares.

Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Rural Bexar County and Surrounding Counties

  • If you live outside VIA’s service area, use TxDOT’s public transportation resources to find demand‑response rides in your county: Texas Department of Transportation—Public Transportation (https://www.txdot.gov/) and search “public transportation provider.” You can also dial 2‑1‑1 for your local provider.

Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Long‑Term Care Rights


Inclusive Resources (San Antonio and Texas)

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Tip: Ask providers about nondiscrimination policies and LGBTQ+ cultural competency. Your Area Agency on Aging can help locate inclusive services.

Veteran Seniors

Seniors with Disabilities

Tribal Resources (Texas)

Rural Seniors (Outskirts of Bexar County)


Local Contacts Snapshot (San Antonio/Bexar)

ServicePrimary local leadWebsite
Area Agency on AgingBexar Area Agency on Aging (AACOG)https://www.aacog.com/aaad
City senior centers & human servicesCity of San Antonio—Department of Human Serviceshttps://www.sanantonio.gov/humanservices
Public housing & vouchersLocal PHA (see HUD directory—Texas)https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
Affordable apartmentsTDHCA Housing Searchhttps://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/
Home repair (city)City of San Antonio—Neighborhood & Housing Serviceshttps://www.sanantonio.gov/nhsd
Home repair (federal)USDA Section 504 (Texas)https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx
WeatherizationTDHCA WAPhttps://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
Utilities—electric/gasCPS Energy assistancehttps://www.cpsenergy.com/en/my-home/savenow/rebates-programs/assistance-programs.html
Utilities—waterSAWS Uplifthttps://www.saws.org/assistance/
MealsMeals on Wheels San Antoniohttps://www.mowsatx.org/
Food bankSan Antonio Food Bankhttps://safoodbank.org/
TransitVIA Metropolitan Transithttps://www.viainfo.net/
Legal helpTRLA (San Antonio region)https://www.trla.org/

How to Apply (and What to Gather)

Have these ready:

  • Photo ID and Social Security number
  • Proof of address (lease, utility bill)
  • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs) and recent bank statements
  • Medical expense proofs (for SNAP deductions; Medicare/Medicaid programs)
  • Rent/mortgage statement and utility bills
  • VA documents (if applicable)

Where to apply online:

Tips:

  • Save confirmation numbers and take screenshots.
  • If you need help due to disability, ask for “reasonable accommodations” (extra time, help filling forms).
  • If denied, ask for the reason in writing and how to appeal or reapply with missing documents.

Common Reality Checks (And Workarounds)

  • Housing vouchers: Waitlists can be years long. Apply to multiple PHAs (including smaller nearby cities). As a backup, apply to LIHTC senior apartments.
  • Home repairs: City and nonprofit repair funds open/close. Join interest lists and reapply each year. Ask your utility about safety inspections and payment arrangements if repairs affect service.
  • Medicaid home care: Medical eligibility is strict. If turned down, ask the AAA about caregiver support, respite, and PACE availability.
  • Utilities: CEAP funds may run out late summer. Ask for medical flags, budget billing, and city or charity programs (e.g., CPS Energy REAP).
  • Paperwork: Small mistakes cause delays. Double‑check signatures, dates, and totals before you submit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Is there general cash assistance just for seniors in San Antonio?
    Texas does not have a statewide “cash assistance for seniors” program. However, SNAP, Medicare Savings Programs, CEAP (utility help), and property tax exemptions/deferrals can free up money. If you’re raising grandchildren, explore TANF at Your Texas Benefits (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash).
  2. How do I get on a Section 8 waitlist in San Antonio?
    Apply through the local housing authority when lists open. Check monthly. Start with the HUD PHA directory for Texas (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts) and TDHCA HCV (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/). Also apply to LIHTC apartments via TDHCA Housing Search (https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/).
  3. Can homeowners get help in San Antonio?
    Yes. City repair programs (https://www.sanantonio.gov/nhsd), USDA Section 504 grants/loans (https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx), Weatherization (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/), CEAP (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/), and Over‑65 property tax exemptions/deferrals (https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/) all help.
  4. I’m just over the income limit. Should I still apply for SNAP or Medicare Savings Programs?
    Yes. Medical expenses can increase SNAP benefits for those 60+. Some programs have higher limits than you expect. Apply and let the agency decide. SNAP/TSAP information (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits).
  5. Where can I get unbiased Medicare advice?
    Use Texas HICAP/SHIP via HHSC (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare) or Texas Legal Services Center HICAP (https://www.tlsc.org/hicap). Your Bexar Area Agency on Aging (https://www.aacog.com/aaad) can connect you.
  6. I need in‑home help but want to avoid a nursing home. What are my options?
    Ask about STAR+PLUS HCBS through MEPD (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities) and check whether PACE is available in your ZIP code (https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly-pace).
  7. Who can help with utility bills right now?
    Start with TDHCA CEAP (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/) and your utility providers: CPS Energy programs (https://www.cpsenergy.com/en/my-home/savenow/rebates-programs/assistance-programs.html) and SAWS Uplift (https://www.saws.org/assistance/). Ask about payment plans and medical protections.
  8. How do I report abuse or neglect?
    Call 1‑800‑252‑5400 or use the Texas Abuse Hotline (https://www.txabusehotline.org/). For nursing home or assisted living problems, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/long-term-care-ombudsman).
  9. Are there resources for LGBTQ+ elders or veterans in San Antonio?
    Yes. The Pride Center San Antonio (https://pridecentersa.org/), SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (https://www.sageusa.org/), the Texas Veterans Commission (https://www.tvc.texas.gov/), VA Aid & Attendance (https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/), and the South Texas VA (https://www.va.gov/south-texas-health-care/).
  10. Where do I find trustworthy, up‑to‑date information?
    Use Your Texas Benefits (https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/), Bexar Area Agency on Aging (https://www.aacog.com/aaad), TDHCA programs (CEAP/WAP/Housing), HHSC, the City of San Antonio’s official site (https://www.sanantonio.gov/), and the other official links in this guide.

Disclaimer

Programs change. Funding opens and closes. Eligibility rules and amounts are updated regularly. Always confirm current details with the official agency or program linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.


About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non‑profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: December 2025
  • Sources Verified: December 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.


Notes on data and sources: Texas senior statistics cited in the statewide context of this guide come from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey 2023, as summarized here: Senior Statistics of Texas (https://data.census.gov/) by searching “Texas S0103.” For programs, this guide links directly to official federal, state, city, and recognized nonprofit sources.