Jasper County rental assistance options

Jasper County tenants who are at odds with their landlords will find few options to get help with rent. Programs tend to focus more on permanent rent reduction rather than emergency rental assistance. There are opportunities for both though.

Each program serves all tenants who make a request. Not all applicants will be approved for benefits through each program.

DETCOG Regional Housing Authority

The Housing Authority does not help with emergency rent payments. They are structured instead to help those who have permanent problems with affording a residence.

To provide permanent relief, the Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG) Housing Authority administers the Section 8 program. Specifically, the Housing Choice Voucher Program provides subsidies payable to the landlords of Jasper County tenants who are accepted into the program.

Tenants would only pay the portion of the rent that they can afford. DETCOG pays the rest to the landlord.

While this sounds like a great benefit (and it is), the waiting list can take years to navigate. Changes to income or family circumstances can cause an applicant to move up or down the list. Many wait-listers are removed from the list before they are ever selected because they no longer meet the requirements of the program.

To apply for one of these valuable vouchers, call the DETCOG Regional Housing Authority at 409-384-5704.

United Way

The United Way of the Greater Jasper Area provides grants to local organizations that can assist with housing emergencies. Some agencies distribute emergency aid grants. Others provide transitional housing and other permanent placement programs for recently evicted tenants.

The United Way provides a centralized referral system that allows local residents to receive direct referrals to local aid organizations. To get help, tenants may call 409-384-5704 or simply dial 211 to reach a representative.

Tri-County Community Action

Tri-County Community Action, Inc. administers the Community Development Block Grants in Jasper County. This organization provides emergency housing relief, which is funded by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.

The Shelter Crisis Program can assist with emergency homelessness situations. Crisis rental assistance can intervene if rental arrears are the cause for an eviction notice. To speak with a case manager, call 936-598-6315.

Loan Options

Some tenants will find that although they need help, their income exceeds the maximum levels allowed by some aid agencies. Even though housing grants may not be possible, working adults may find that borrowing small loans can sometimes be better than an eviction. It just takes care to ensure that the right products are selected and that the loans will be affordable.

  • DuGood Federal Credit Union has an open membership policy. Perks include low interest loans and the August Skip-a-Pay option. Call 409-899-3430 for loan rates.
  • Education First Federal Credit Union also admits Jasper County residents and those employed by area businesses. Call 409-898-3770.
  • First Bank & Trust East Texas is a for-profit institution, so rates could be higher. Call 888-608-7787.

Reacting prior to receiving an eviction notice will be important, since Texas allows landlords to evict quickly.