Ellis County rental assistance agencies and aid

Residents of Ellis County, Texas are served by several aid organizations that can step in to help with housing emergencies. These agencies can provide valuable rental assistance along with supplemental counseling and advice.

Tenants who are falling behind on rent or who may be facing homelessness should make contact right away to ensure that proper steps may be taken before an eviction commences. Texas rental laws favor the landlord, making it essential to take action before it is too late.

North Ellis County Outreach is a major provider of cash aid to tenants in need. Rental assistance is payable whenever it is necessary to prevent an eviction. Only lower income individuals and families who reside in the 75154 and 75125 ZIP Codes (Red Oak and Ferris) will qualify. Call 972-617-7261 to set up an appointment. Utility aid and food may also be provided in addition to rental assistance.

Tenants who are HIV-positive may be able to obtain housing aid through Health Services of North Texas. Call 800-974-2437.

Helping Hands of Ennis pays rental assistance when families have experienced a crisis situation that has caused them to fall behind on rent. Services are open to lower income households of Alma, Avalon, Bardwell, Bristol, Ennis, Garrett, Palmer and Rockett. Call 972 875 0218 or visit their NE Main Street location.

Manna House provides assistance to residents of Greater Midlothian. This organization is supported by United Way of West Ellis County. Call 972-775-1800 to request resources to help with housing emergencies.

Salvation Army is committed to providing emergency rental assistance, particularly in instances where a crisis situation is threatening homelessness.  Waxahachie residents may call 972-937-7727 for emergency financial assistance.

Waxahachie Care Services also provides limited financial assistance to tenants dealing with a rent emergency. Call 972-923-2273.

Rental Loan Options

Area credit unions that serve Ellis County provide the best opportunity for obtaining a loan without the high costs associated with predatory or even for-profit lenders. Rates tend to be the lowest available. For households that earn too much to be approved for rental assistance grants, these loans can be a cheap and feasible option.

  • TrustUS Federal Credit Union offers unsecured loans for rent at rates comparable to preferred rate credit cards. Call 972-775-4600 to inquire about membership. Once membership is obtained, members are able to apply for loans right away.
  • Neighborhood Credit Union can also provide low cost rental loans to cover a temporary cash crisis. Residents or employees in Ellis County are eligible to join. Call 214-748-9393 to find out how to open an account. While traditional signature loans are offered, the Quick Cash Loan product offers a loan of up to $1,100 with 6 months to repay.
  • Ellis County Teachers & Employees Federal Credit Union has more strict membership requirements. Call 972-937-4560.

Prior to borrowing money, residents who earn lower income are encouraged to first apply for grant funding through one of the agencies that serves Ellis County. Otherwise, loans must be repaid with interest.