Our Community Services program is what makes OWBC a Community Action Agency. The programs and services provided by the Community Services department help transition low-income community members out of poverty through financial assistance, education, and coaching.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program

Our Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) provides financial assistance for qualifying households who need help covering their energy bills (electricity, gas, and propane). Applicants are required to reapply each calendar year, and often receive assistance for multiple months.

View the income qualifications here. 

Mortgage Assistance Program

Mortgage Assistance is generally available for those who qualify for CEAP, if they own a home. When you apply for energy assistance, our staff will also assess your eligibility for mortgage assistance.  

Water Assistance Program

Coming in early 2022! More details will be available in January.

EDUCATION & COACHING

Self-Sufficiency Program 

Our Self-Sufficiency Program administers case management services to households that are looking to transition out of poverty. Assistance usually includes financial assistance, help with budgeting, resumes, job applications, and more. Ultimately, this program works to help clients increase their job skills to therefore increase their income and independence.

Services:

• Education / Back to Work
• Coaching
• Supporting
• Advocating

View the income qualifications here.

APPLYING FOR ASSISTANCE

READ BEFORE STARTING YOUR APPLICATION!

1. Be prepared BEFORE you start.
2. Take your time. Find a work space to concentrate. The application may take up to 20 minutes to complete. Once you start the online application, you must complete it OR return to it through a link that will be emailed to you.
3. Required Documents should be in PDF or JPEG format. Upload document for the online application or email documents into utilities@owbc-tx.org for paper applications.
4. Address each section of the application. Incomplete applications may be cause for denial.
5. Include information on all minors and adults living in the home.
6. This program is income-based. We require income history for the last 30 days for all residents 18 yrs and older.
7. Pay attention to prompts – Next Steps / Specific fields not addressed / Requirements
8. Signature is REQUIRED – Application must be signed electronically or by hand.

List of Required Documents to Upload:

1. Provide Proof of Income for each household member 18 years and older (pay stubs, unemployment, SNAP letter, child support, or award letters from last 30 days).
2. Complete the SAVE Form in the application and include Proof of Identification and US Citizenship/Legal Residence or Qualified Alien documents (driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers).
3. Include a Copy of Current Utility Bill(s) or statement.