How We Can Help You

Caritas, located at 300 S. 15th Street in Waco, (254-753-4593) primarily provides emergency assistance to people by giving them a monthly allocation of food, which is obtained from various sources such as local food drives in organizations, businesses and congregations, salvaged food from grocery stores, and America's Second Harvest (the national food bank) through Capital Area Food Bank in Austin. The food assistance average 60-70 lbs, depending on the size of the family Caritas also provides emergency assistance to people with clothing, utilities, prescription medications, rent, mortgage, and emergency lodging, and transportation. These emergency assistance programs are funded through individual and corporate donations, as well as thrift store sales. Caritas aids approximately 1500 families a month. All emergency assistance is provided after interviews to determine how Caritas can best assist the individual or family. However, Caritas does provide for emergency needs with a minimum of eligibility determination. Caritas is also linked with some other helping agencies through the Heart of Texas Regional Access System, so that referrals can be made when Caritas cannot provide for the emergency need. Money is never given directly individuals, but arrangements are made with providers of services needed and Caritas pays the provider (utility company, pharmacy, bus company, etc).