Grants for Seniors in El Paso

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in El Paso, Texas (2026 Guide)

Last updated:

If You Need Emergency Help


Key Takeaways

  • Most benefits in El Paso flow through three places: Your Texas Benefits (state programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings, caregivers), your local Area Agency on Aging (Rio Grande Council of Governments), and local housing/utility providers (HACEP, Project BRAVO, El Paso Electric, El Paso Water).
  • Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some home repairs. Apply early, get on multiple lists, and ask for alternatives while you wait.
  • Solid options exist for rent help (Section 8, affordable apartments), home repairs (USDA Section 504, Weatherization), food (SNAP/TSAP, food bank, senior meals), healthcare costs (Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help), utilities (CEAP), and transportation (Sun Metro LIFT, Medicaid rides).
  • Use official sources, keep copies of paperwork, and watch for scams. If someone promises benefits for a fee, it’s a red flag.
  • For seniors with disabilities, veterans, tribal elders (Ysleta del Sur Pueblo), LGBTQ+ seniors, and rural residents, dedicated supports are available—see the Inclusive Resources section.

Quick-Start Directory (Apply Here First)

NeedBest first stop (El Paso/State)What to do
State benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings, caregivers)Your Texas Benefits (Texas Health & Human Services)Apply online at Your Texas Benefits: https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/ or call 2‑1‑1
Medicare counseling & caregiver supportRio Grande Council of Governments Area Agency on AgingFind counselors and caregiver help: https://www.riocog.org/area-agency-on-aging or call 915‑533‑0998
Rent vouchers & public housingHousing Authority of the City of El Paso (HACEP)Check HACEP waitlists and apply: https://www.hacep.org/; also see HUD PHA contacts (Texas): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
Affordable apartments (no voucher)TDHCA Housing Resource CenterSearch for income-restricted and senior apartments: https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/
Utility and weatherization helpProject BRAVO (Community Action Agency for El Paso County)Apply for CEAP and Weatherization: https://www.projectbravo.org/
Food pantries & senior food boxesEl Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food BankFind distributions and senior box (CSFP) info: https://elpasoansfightinghunger.org/
Home repairs (62+ grants, safety fixes)USDA Section 504 (Texas); City/NonprofitsUSDA home repair grants/loans: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx and Rebuilding Together (apply): https://rebuildingtogether.org/apply
PACE (all-in-one care for frail seniors)Bienvivir All‑Inclusive Senior Health (PACE in El Paso)Learn eligibility/service area: https://www.bienvivir.org/

Tip: Create a folder with your ID, Social Security number, proof of Texas address, income, bank statements, rent/mortgage, and medical bills. You’ll need these for most applications.


How to Use This Guide

This El Paso-specific guide is organized by need: money and food, housing and repairs, healthcare, utilities, transportation, legal help, and inclusive resources. For each, you’ll see what help covers, who it’s for, what’s hard, and where to apply (with links to official sources).

Texas context: Texans age 65+ are about 14% of the state population (ACS 2023). Many programs use the Federal Poverty Guidelines to set income limits. See current limits at HealthCare.gov: https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/federal-poverty-level-FPL/

Reality check: Program rules and funding change. Always confirm on the official pages linked here.


Money and Food Help in El Paso

SNAP and TSAP (Simplified SNAP for Seniors)

Tip: If you’re “over income” by a little, apply anyway. Seniors (60+) can claim out-of-pocket medical costs to increase SNAP eligibility (HHSC guidance in the links above).

Food Pantries and Senior Food Boxes (CSFP)

  • El Paso’s regional food bank, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, runs distributions and connects eligible seniors to the USDA Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP, often called “senior food boxes”). See schedules and how to qualify: https://elpasoansfightinghunger.org/

Tip: Bring a photo ID and a piece of mail with your El Paso address. Ask staff about delivery options if you are homebound.

Home-Delivered and Congregate Meals

Reality check: Home-delivered meal programs often have waiting lists. Ask about “frozen meals” or “wellness calls” while you wait, and check whether your AAA can help with short-term options.

Cash Help (limited): TANF for Kinship Caregivers

Property Tax Savings for El Paso Homeowners 65+

Tip: Deferral is not forgiveness—interest adds up. Consider counseling from a HUD-approved housing counselor: https://hudgov-answers.force.com/housingcounseling/s/

Phone and Internet Discounts

  • Lifeline: Monthly discount on phone or internet for low-income households. Check eligibility and apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
  • Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Federal funding ended in 2024. Ask your provider about any low-cost senior or income-based plans.

Housing and Rent Help in El Paso

Section 8 Vouchers and Public Housing (HACEP)

Reality check: Waitlists can be long or closed. Get on multiple lists (including smaller nearby cities if available) and keep your contact info updated to avoid being removed.

Affordable Apartments (No Voucher Needed)

  • What it is: Apartments built with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) offer below-market rents; many are age-restricted (55+ or 62+).
  • Where to search: Use the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) Housing Resource Center to search El Paso properties: https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/
  • Tip: Ask managers about “income limits,” “senior set-asides,” and whether they have an interest list.

Section 811 Project Rental Assistance

Homelessness Prevention and Shelter

Housing Programs Snapshot (El Paso & Texas)

ProgramWhat it coversWho it helpsWhere to apply/check
Section 8 Housing Choice VoucherPays part of rent in private unitsLow-income; seniors/disabled often priorityHACEP: https://www.hacep.org/ and HUD PHA contacts (Texas): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
Public HousingSubsidized units owned by housing authoritiesLow-income households, including seniorsHACEP public housing: https://www.hacep.org/
LIHTC ApartmentsReduced rents at qualifying propertiesIncome-eligible; many 55+ or 62+TDHCA housing search: https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/
Section 811 PRARent help tied to disability servicesLow-income with qualifying disabilityTDHCA 811 PRA: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-811-pra/
Property Tax Relief (65+)Exemptions/deferral for homeownersHomeowners age 65+Texas Comptroller: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/ and EPCAD: https://www.epcad.org/

Home Repairs, Accessibility, and Weatherization

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

  • What it does: Grants up to 10,000forverylow‑incomehomeownersage62+toremovehealth/safetyhazards;loansupto10,000 for very low‑income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; loans up to 40,000 at low interest (typically 1%) for repairs, often with long repayment terms.
  • Key rules: Home must be your primary residence. Grant amounts over $5000 require a lien. If you sell the home within 3 years, grant repayment may be required.
  • Where to apply: USDA Texas Section 504 program page and local contacts: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx

Source: USDA Rural Development program page above.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Critical Home Repairs and Accessibility (Local/Nonprofit)

Reality check: Funds are limited and often seasonal. Get on interest lists, reapply early each year, and ask churches/charities for stopgap fixes (e.g., space heaters, minor plumbing).

Home Repair and Weatherization at a Glance

ProgramTypical helpSenior priorityWhere to start
USDA Section 504 (62+)Health/safety repairs; grants up to 10k;loansupto10k; loans up to 40kYes (62+)USDA Texas Section 504: 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/disabledProject BRAVO: https://www.projectbravo.org/ and TDHCA WAP: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
Rebuilding TogetherSafety/accessibility repairsOftenApply here: https://rebuildingtogether.org/apply
Habitat for HumanityCritical repairs (varies by affiliate)OftenFind affiliate: https://habitattexas.org/find-your-local-affiliate/
City programsRoof/plumbing/accessibility (when open)OftenCity of El Paso Housing Programs: https://www.elpasotexas.gov/community-and-human-development/

Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Free, Unbiased Medicare Counseling (SHIP/HICAP)

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

PACE in El Paso (All‑Inclusive Care)

Help with Medicare Costs

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

Mental Health and Substance Use

  • 24/7 crisis line: 988 or https://988lifeline.org/
  • Local Mental Health Authority (El Paso County): Emergence Health Network—services, crisis support, and clinics: https://emergencehealthnetwork.org/
  • Medicare and Medicaid cover many behavioral health services. Contact your plan for in-network providers.

Healthcare Cost Helpers (Summary)

HelpWhat it coversWhere to apply
MEPD Medicaid (65+)Health coverage; may include long‑term servicesApply via Your Texas Benefits: 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 supports for nursing home level of careHHSC assessment after Medicaid application
Medicare Savings ProgramsPart A/B premiums and cost-sharingHHSC Medicare info and application: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare
Extra Help (Part D)Drug plan premiums/copaysSocial Security application: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
PACE (Bienvivir)All‑in‑one care + transportationBienvivir PACE: https://www.bienvivir.org/
HICAP/SHIPFree Medicare counselingAAA (Rio Grande COG): https://www.riocog.org/area-agency-on-aging

Transportation

Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Sun Metro and LIFT Paratransit (City of El Paso)

  • Sun Metro fixed-route buses offer reduced fares for older adults. LIFT provides door‑to‑door paratransit for qualified riders with disabilities.
  • Check routes, fares, and LIFT eligibility: https://www.sunmetro.net/
  • Ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs or mileage reimbursement options if you live far from bus lines.

Utility and Water Bill Help

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Electric and Water Utilities (Local Options)

  • El Paso Electric: Ask about payment plans, medical critical care designations (with a doctor’s letter), and customer assistance. Start at El Paso Electric’s customer pages: https://www.epelectric.com/
  • El Paso Water: Check customer assistance and payment plans (H2O or similar programs may be available). Start here: https://www.epwater.org/

Reality check: CEAP funds can run low late in the year. If a program is “out of funds,” ask when to reapply and what backup options exist (payment plans, medical flags, or city-funded aid).

Utility Help Options

Program/ProviderWhat it coversWhere to apply
CEAP (Project BRAVO)Electric/gas bills, crisis help, depositsProject BRAVO: https://www.projectbravo.org/ and TDHCA CEAP overview: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/
WAP (Project BRAVO)Efficiency upgrades to lower billsProject BRAVO: https://www.projectbravo.org/ and TDHCA WAP: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
El Paso ElectricPayment plans, customer assistance, medical critical care flagEl Paso Electric: https://www.epelectric.com/
El Paso WaterCustomer assistance funds and payment plansEl Paso Water: https://www.epwater.org/
Lifeline (phone/internet)Monthly discount on phone or internetLifeline support: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

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


Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • Borderland Rainbow Center (El Paso): Community support, groups, and resource navigation; ask about age-friendly programming: https://www.borderlandrainbow.org/
  • SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (listening/support): 877‑360‑5428 and info at https://www.sageusa.org/
  • Tip: When calling providers, ask about nondiscrimination policies and LGBTQ+ cultural competence.

Veteran Seniors

Seniors with Disabilities

Tribal Elders (Local: Ysleta del Sur Pueblo)

  • Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua), located in El Paso County: tribal services and contacts: https://www.ysletadelsurpueblo.org/
  • Healthcare: Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal clinics—eligibility and locations: https://www.ihs.gov/
  • Housing & community development for tribes: HUD Office of Native American Programs (CodeTalk): https://www.hud.gov/codetalk
  • Note: Tribal elders should also apply for statewide programs like SNAP, CEAP, Medicaid via Your Texas Benefits; tribal healthcare does not block eligibility for state benefits.

Rural Seniors (Colonias and Outlying Areas)

  • Community Action (Project BRAVO) brings services to various parts of El Paso County; check their site for application events: https://www.projectbravo.org/
  • Rural transit exists in every Texas county. If you live beyond Sun Metro routes, call 2‑1‑1 for demand-response options and check Texas Department of Transportation public transit resources: https://www.txdot.gov/ (search “public transportation provider”).
  • Telehealth: Medicare and many Medicare Advantage plans cover telehealth visits—ask your doctor and plan for options if travel is hard: https://www.medicare.gov/

Resources by Region (El Paso Essentials)


How to Apply (and What to Gather)

Documents to have ready:

  • Photo ID and Social Security number
  • Proof of Texas address (lease, utility bill)
  • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs) and bank statements
  • Medical expenses (for SNAP medical 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.
  • Ask for “reasonable accommodations” if you need help due to disability (extra time, help completing forms).
  • If denied, ask for the reason in writing and how to appeal or reapply with missing documents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is there a general cash program for seniors in El Paso?
A: Texas does not offer a statewide “general assistance” cash program for seniors. Cash help is limited, but SNAP/TSAP, CEAP (utility help), property tax exemptions/deferrals, and Medicare cost‑savers can free up money. If you are raising grandchildren, TANF may help: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash

Q: How do I get on the El Paso Section 8 (HACEP) waitlist?
A: Apply directly with HACEP and check their site for waitlist openings: https://www.hacep.org/. Also consider other Texas PHAs using HUD’s directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts. Keep contact info updated and respond quickly to notices.

Q: Can I get help even if I own my home?
A: Yes. Homeowners can qualify for CEAP utility help (Project BRAVO), Weatherization (Project BRAVO/TDHCA), USDA Section 504 senior repair grants/loans (62+), and the Over‑65 homestead exemption/deferral (EPCAD). See CEAP: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/ and USDA: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx and EPCAD: https://www.epcad.org/

Q: I’m over income by a little. Should I still apply for SNAP/TSAP or CEAP?
A: Yes. Seniors can deduct out‑of‑pocket medical expenses for SNAP, which may change eligibility. Apply and let the agency calculate it. SNAP/TSAP info: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits

Q: I need in‑home help but don’t want a nursing home. What are my options in El Paso?
A: Ask about STAR+PLUS HCBS (if you meet medical and financial rules) and Bienvivir PACE. Start with MEPD Medicaid: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities and Bienvivir: https://www.bienvivir.org/

Q: Where can I get free, unbiased Medicare advice locally?
A: Rio Grande Council of Governments AAA (SHIP/HICAP): https://www.riocog.org/area-agency-on-aging or call 915‑533‑0998. Statewide SHIP resources: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare and https://www.tlsc.org/hicap

Q: Who can help me avoid scams?
A: Texas Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection. Your AAA’s benefits counselors can explain common Medicare and benefits scams. Never pay fees to “guarantee” benefits.

Q: How do I report abuse in a facility or at home?
A: Call APS at 1‑800‑252‑5400 or report online: https://www.txabusehotline.org/. For nursing home/assisted living issues, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/long-term-care-ombudsman

Q: Are there programs for LGBTQ+ elders, veterans, or tribal elders in El Paso?
A: Yes. See Borderland Rainbow Center: https://www.borderlandrainbow.org/, Texas Veterans Commission: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/, VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/, and Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua): https://www.ysletadelsurpueblo.org/


Resources (Official and Trusted)


Disclaimer

Program details, funding, and eligibility rules change. Always verify information 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.