Austin Resources for Those Experiencing Income Loss Due to COVID-19
Efforts to help Austinites struggling to make rent or pay bills
By Evan Rodriguez, 7:00AM, Fri. Sep. 25, 2020
As the pandemic's economic fallout continues to spread many Austin residents find themselces in need of a little help. That help can be financial, psychological or something more conrete like food and toiletries. Thankfully, the city has resources to help you stay afloat.
Relief of Emergency Needs for Tenants
Deadline: Through Dec. 31
Contact: [email protected] or call 512/488-1397, weekdays, 8am-6pm
Renters struggling to cover those checks on the first of the month due to the pandemic are eligible. The RENT fund continues through the end of the year or until the $12.9 million runs out. Applicants ust be under a contractual lease within Austin’s city limits, not receiving federal
rental assistance, and provide documentation that you have experienced COVID-19 income loss.
Austin Energy & City of Austin Bill Relief
Deadline: Sept. 30
Contact: 512/494-9400
If you have documentation that proves you've experienced COVID-19 related financial hardship then you could get help with some of your utility bills. Call for more details.
Atmos Energy and the Texas Gas Service
Contact: Atmos, 888/286-6700 and Texas Gas, 800/700-2443
These natural gas suppliers are providing bill payment assistance.
ConnectATX
Contact: 833/512-CATX
This comprehensive database of social services includes COVID-19 relief programs. Call for further questions or help navigating the site.
Your local neighborhood centers
Contact: 512/972-5780
Call for more information and to find a center near you.
Austin Non-Profit Relief Grant
Deadline: Oct. 9 at 5pm
Contact: 512-477-5955 ext. 251 or [email protected]
For questions and eligibility requirements email, call, or sign-up for Mission Capital Office Hours.
Small Business Resources
Peruse this comprehensive database for developing your small business in the Austin area. Many COVID-19 relief programs and aid are included.
The Austin Chamber of Commerce
This city program features COVID-19 legal resources.
2-1-1
Call or visit the link.
Integral Care Psychiatric Emergency Services
Contact: 512/472-4357
This service is on hand physically and by telephone and telehealth (preferably), please contact them online or call.
Aging Services Council of Central Texas
This database caters to seniors looking for specified programs and aid relating to COVID-19 relief and beyond.
Veterans Resources
The city's website includes links to help veterans.
In addition to these there are many national efforts to help and even more smaller community efforts. Not to mention the many individuals and mutual aid services helping out their friends and neighbors. This is merely a starting point. If you have or know of an organization providing aid available to Austin residents, local businesses and nonprofits please leave a comment with a link.
Got something to say on the subject? Send a letter to the editor.
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Beth Sullivan, Aug. 29, 2021
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Dec. 15, 2023
COVID-19, Austin Resources, rent, utilities, coronavirus