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The Texas Southmost College Community Resource Guide CONNECTING TSC STUDENTS TO RESOURCES IN OUR COMMUNITY

OVERVIEW The Texas Southmost College Community Resource Guide was originally envisioned, compiled, and published as a result of the Carl D. Perkins V 2019 Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment. This resource manual is available to the TSC community thanks to support from the Carl D. Perkins Grant and the TSC Student Services division.

*Please note that some organizations provide multiple support services and will appear in each category for which they offer services. This resource manual is a living document. New organizations will be added as their information is verified, and current organizations may update their listings as new services are offered. To add an organization or update a listing, please contact Daniela Canales, Perkins Coordinator, at daniela.canales@tsc.edu or (956) 295-3639.

CONTENTS TEXAS SOUTHMOST COLLEGE.................................................................................................. 2 CRISIS RESOURCES .......................................................................................................................... 3 CHILD CARE................................................................................................................................... 4 EMPLOYMENT .............................................................................................................................. 6 FINANCE........................................................................................................................................ 10 FOOD .............................................................................................................................................. 17 HOUSING ...................................................................................................................................... 22 LEGAL AID .................................................................................................................................... 28 HEALTH SERVICES .................................................................................................................... 31 TRANSPORTATION ................................................................................................................... 33 DISABILITY SERVICES .............................................................................................................. 34 VETERANS ASSISTANCE .......................................................................................................... 37 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ................................................................................................. 38

TEXAS SOUTHMOST COLLEGE Texas Southmost College’s mission is guided by our commitment to provide: University transfer, career, and technical programs leading to an associate degree or certificate along with courses specializing in college preparatory and developmental education, workforce training, adult literacy, and continuing education to support the evolving needs of citizens, industry, and economic development initiatives within Cameron and Willacy Counties. High-quality instruction and learning opportunities in the classroom, online, and through other delivery methods; a supportive and innovative faculty and staff; appropriate technology, equipment, and learning resources; and advising and assessment services to promote transfer to a four-year baccalaureate institution, entry or advancement in the workforce, or lifelong learning. A learning-centered, service-oriented environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion; facilitates growth and development; fosters social responsibility, critical thinking, communication, and innovation; and empowers and engages students, faculty, and staff to achieve personal and professional goals. Institutional effectiveness that embraces individual accountability, data-driven decision making, change, and an unending pursuit of excellence.

In response to the region’s challenges and to achieve this vision and mission, TSC’s identified five goals for the 2018-2023 Strategic Plan: • • • • •

Foster Student Success Lead Regional Workforce Development Enrich the Student Experience Enhance Community Connections Invest in Each Other

CRISIS RESOURCES Tropical Texas Behavioral Health 24-hour mobile unit 1-877-289-7199 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK or text 741-741 National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK Nationwide RAINN (Sexual Assault) Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE Runaway Hotline 1-800-888-4036 Toll free hotline number for minors to call when they need services due to homelessness, are in danger, or at risk of being homeless Dial 211 for referrals for food, housing, transportation, shelters, medical care, etc. Dial 911 for emergencies only

CHILD CARE NINOS Inc. Raul Yzaguirre Head Start https://www.ninosinc.org/ 2255 N. Coria Brownsville, TX., 78520 (956) 544-1166 mail@ninosinc.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm NINOS Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start Program https://www.ninosinc.org/ 22887 State Hwy 345 Rio Hondo, TX., 78583 (956) 399-9944 mail@ninosinc.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm

NINOS Inc. provides childcare to families with children ages 0 - 4. Individuals must meet income eligibility guidelines. The program ensures your child is ready for school by providing: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Health and Nutritional Assessments Medical and Dental Follow-Ups Pre and Post Natal Education for Pregnant Women Nutritional Meals & Snacks The Least Restrictive Environment for Children with Disabilities Individualized Infant, Toddler and Pre-School “School Readiness” Transportation (where available)

When applying, parents or legal guardians must provide proof of income such as: ▪ 1040 Signed ▪ Employer Written Statement form ▪ Attorney General’s Letter ▪ Financial Aid Award Letter ▪ Unemployment Comp ▪ Workman’s Comp ▪ Current Check Stub (last 3) ▪ W-2 Forms For more information, visit the website page https://www.ninosinc.org/.

Workforce Solutions Cameron Child Care Services -CCMS Brownsville https://wfscameron.org/how-do-i-apply-for-childcare-services 851 Old Alice Rd. Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 546-3141 Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Workforce Solutions Cameron Child Care Services -CCMS Harlingen https://wfscameron.org/how-do-i-apply-for-childcare-services/ 601 E. Harrison St. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-9266 ccservices@wfscameron.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Workforce Solutions Cameron Child Care Services helps income-eligible families find and pay for child care. CCMS in Brownsville and Harlingen serve those living in Cameron County, who: ▪ ▪

Meet income guidelines Are working, attending school, or enrolled in a training program, or a combination ▪ At least 25 hours a week for a single parent ▪ At least 50 hours a week for a two-parent household

Individuals will be responsible for a childcare co-pay, depending on your monthly employment income before taxes (gross amount), total household income, and family size. If parents meet employment participation requirements within three months, eligibility will continue for a total of 12 months, including the three-months of the initial job search period. To check for eligibility, complete the form located at https://workforcesolutionscameron.formstack.com/forms/ccform2.

Texas Southmost College’s mission to transform communities through innovative learning opportunities addresses the entire educational lifecycle of an individual. 5

EMPLOYMENT Loaves and Fishes https://www.lfrgv.org 514 S. E Street Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-1014 office@lfrgv.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Loaves and Fishes offers help and hope to our community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search assistance, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling. The New Hope Job Shop offers individuals the chance to earn their GED and learn the skills necessary to find gainful employment. Three distinct educational and training classes are offered: ▪ Computer Classes ▪ Job Assistance ▪ Resume writing ▪ Interview techniques For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV. Texas Workforce Solutions of Cameron County Job Seekers, Career and Workforce Training https://www.wfscameron.org/job-seekers-page/ 700 Ruben M. Torres Blvd., 3rd floor Brownsville, Texas 78520 (956) 546-3141 info@wfscameron.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Workforce Solutions Cameron offers financial assistance to support workforce training by assisting individuals in acquiring the necessary skills or credentials to obtain and retain full-time employment. Assistance is available in the following areas: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Funding for occupational/vocational training Funding for training material and books On-the- job training to acquire employment skills Funding for basic tools needed for a new job Transportation Job search and job matching assistance Funding for clothing for job interviews or to begin new employment Referrals for child care assistance

Texas Workforce Solutions of Cameron County Vocational Rehabilitation Services https://www.wfscameron.org/individuals-with-disabilities/ 851 Old Alice Rd. Brownsville, Texas 78520 (956) 546-3141 info@wfscameron.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services supports individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment by providing a range of services based on an individual’s employment goals. Our Vocational Rehabilitation counselors work closely with job seekers to determine an employment goal, then identify and arrange for highquality services that lead to successful employment.

Disabilities Served: If you have one or more of the following [diagnosed or not] you may qualify for Vocational Rehabilitation services: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Behavioral and mental health conditions Hearing impairments, including deafness Alcoholism or drug addiction Intellectual, learning, and developmental disabilities Physical disabilities, including traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, back injury, paralysis, and impaired movement Visual impairments

Vocational Rehabilitation Services: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Vocational counseling and guidance Referrals for hearing, visual, and other examinations Assistance with medical appointments and treatment Rehabilitation devices, including hearing aids, wheelchairs, artificial limbs, and braces Therapy to address a disability, including occupational or speech therapy and applied behavioral analysis Physical restoration services Medical, psychological, and vocational assessments Assistance with college education or trade certification On-the-job training Understanding workplace and employer expectations Vocational adjustment training Rehabilitation Teachers Services to help you learn Braille, orientation & mobility, and home and health management skills, if you are blind or have a visual impairment

For more information, contact your local Workforce Solutions office by visiting https://webp.twc.state.tx.us/services/VRLookup/.

Work In Texas – Brownsville https://www.workintexas.com/vosnet/Default.aspx 851 Old Alice Rd. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 546-3141 Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Work In Texas - Southmost https://apps.twc.texas.gov/DSS/results.do?zipCode=78520&searchType=2 5636 Southmost Rd. Suite D Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 621-3480 Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Work In Texas – Harlingen https://www.wfscameron.org/ 601 E Harrison St. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-9266 witmessages@wfscameron.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Work in Texas is an online search engine that individuals can use to: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Browse job openings Create a résumé Apply for jobs Search job tips Receive assistance with writing cover letters Practice interviewing skills Learn salary negotiation Evaluate job offers

For more information and to make an appointment, call the Work in Texas offices to verify that it provides the services you need.

YouthBuild https://youthbuild.org/ 815 Arthur St. Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 548-2302 info@youthbuild.org Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am -5:30pm, Fri 8:00am – 12:00pm YouthBuild offers individuals 16-24 years of age work experience and assistance finding employment within the community. They also offer: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

GED education Construction training Leadership development Community service opportunities

For more information, visit the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/cdcbyouthbuild/.

TSC is committed to INTEGRITY by respecting the ideals of social responsibility, academic honesty, trustworthiness, personal ethics, and the courage to act. 9

FINANCE Medicaid- Statewide https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home Texas Health and Human Services P. O. Box 149024 Austin, TX 78714-9024 1-800-252-8263 Medicaid is a state benefit program that helps individuals with little or no money who are in need. Through Medicaid, eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, and individuals who are older or who have disabilities may receive government medical coverage. Medicaid helps cover visits to doctors, dentists, and hospitals. Medicaid also covers medicines ordered by doctors and dentists. Be ready to answer questions about all family members seeking coverage, such as: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Social Security number and birth date Citizenship or immigration status Income from jobs and other sources The value of cars and other property Bills owed

To apply for benefits, complete the application located at https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Apply/GettingStartedApp?lang=en_US.

Medicare-Statewide https://www.medicare.gov/ 1-800-633-4227 TTY 1-877-486-2048 Medicare provides health insurance for individuals 65 years or older. Individuals are eligible to sign up for Medicare 3 months before they turn 65 and may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if they have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease). Through Medicare, people younger than age 65 with certain disabilities may receive assistance with the cost of health care, although not all medical expenses or the cost of most long- term care may be covered. Individuals who need help beyond what is on Medicare.gov can talk or live chat with a real person, 24 hours a day, 7 days week (except some federal holidays). To apply for benefits, complete the application located at https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Apply/GettingStartedApp?lang=en_US.

Social Security- Statewide https://www.ssa.gov/ Social Security Administration 2005 W. Jefferson Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550 (866) 931-7075 The Social Security program provides a source of income for individuals who are retired, cannot work due to a disability, or are dependents when a parent dies. The Social Security Administration oversees: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Retirement benefits Disability benefits Survivor and family benefits Enrollment in Medicare Issuance of social security numbers, which are unique identifiers needed to work, handle financial transactions, and determine eligibility for certain government services

Individuals can use the online services to: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Apply for benefits Check the status of claim Check the status appeal Request a replacement Social Security card (in many areas) Receive an instant benefit verification letter

To check for eligibility, complete the eligibility form located at https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/checkeligibility-for-benefits. To apply for benefits, complete the application located at https://www.ssa.gov/apply .

Supplemental Security Income- Statewide https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/topic/?id=CAT-01094 1-800-772-1213 TTY 1-800-325-0778 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness, who have income and resources below specific financial thresholds. SSI payments are also made to people age 65 and older without disabilities who meet financial qualifications. To apply for SSI, complete the application located at https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/start.html.

After you complete the online process, a Social Security representative will schedule an appointment to help you apply for benefits. Please be prepared with the following: ▪ ▪

The name, date of birth, Social Security number, mailing address, phone number, and email address (optional) for the person applying for SSI Your name, phone number, and email address (optional) if you are helping someone else

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families TANF/ Lone Star Card- Statewide https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash/tanf-cash-help 1 (800) 777-7328 P.O. Box 149024 Austin, TX 78714-9024 TANF provides monthly cash payments to eligible families with economic need to help pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, furniture, transportation, phone, laundry, supplies for the home, medical supplies not paid for by Medicaid, and other basic needs. A family can be: (1) parents and their children, or (2) relatives caring for related children. The one-time TANF program provides a once-in-a-lifetime payment of $1,000 to certain relatives caring for one or more related children. This help can be given to the relative (grandparents, aunts, uncles, sisters, and brothers) who care for a child that receives TANF, are 25 or older and meet financial eligibility requirements. This payment is available only once, no matter how many other related children live in the home or if other children move in. The payment may be used to pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, furniture, transportation, phone, laundry, supplies for the home, medical supplies not paid for by Medicaid, and other basic needs. To apply for benefits, complete the form located at https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home. Texas Southmost College – Financial Aid Office https://www.tsc.edu/financial-aid/ Oliveira Student Services Center 1st Floor (956) 295-3620 financialaid@tsc.edu Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm The TSC Financial Aid Office provides students and their parents information regarding federal, state, institutional, and other sources of financial aid. The Financial Aid Office administers aid to eligible students who, without such aid, would be unable to attend college. Financial aid consists of funds provided to students to help pay for college educational expenses. Financial Aid may consist of: ▪ ▪ ▪

Federal and state grants – free money Scholarships – free Money Loans – money that must be repaid within six months after graduation, when enrolled less 12

▪

than half time, or when the student completely stops attending school Work-Study - A part-time job that can help you pay for school and living expenses

For more information, visit the Financial Aid Student handbook located at https://www.tsc.edu/assets/documents/financialaid/SOPFinancial_Aid_Student_Handbook_FY22.pdf.

Queen of Peace Outreach Ministries www.qphrl.org 1605 New Combes Hwy. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-6341 qp_secretary@cdob.org Office Hours: Mon – Fri. 9:00am-4:30pm Queen of Peace Outreach Ministries is a Catholic faith-based community church that provides services to the poor and marginalized. The Queen of Peace provides the following services: ▪ ▪ ▪

Utility assistance on Tuesday from 2:30pm to 3:30pm Food pantry on Tuesday & Wednesday from 8:00am to 12:00pm Clothing on Tuesday & Wednesday from 8:00am to 12:00pm

For more information, visit the webpage located at https://www.qphrl.org/community-service.

United Way of Southern Cameron County https://www.unitedwayrgv.org 634 East Levee St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 548-6880 Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm United Way of Southern Cameron County provides financial support, food and nutrition, health services and education, and tax assistance through the VITA program. Distribution of bags of groceries via drive-through are scheduled every Friday at 8:00 a.m. alternating between the Brownsville Event Center and Besteiro Middle School. For Income Tax Assistance, available for individuals/ families making $58,000 or less, please bring the following: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Valid photo identification Original Social Security cards for all household members A copy of last year’s tax return, if available Health Insurance Form 1095-A, if you purchased insurance through the government marketplace Income documents, such as Forms W-2, W-2G, and 1099, from all employers and other sources (social security, unemployment, pension, etc.) Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099) 13

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Bank routing numbers and account numbers, for direct deposit of refund Form 1098-T, for students with post-secondary tuition expenses or grant income Total paid for day care provider and the day care provider’s tax identifying number Identity theft prevention pin, if assigned by the IRS Note: both spouses must be present to sign the required forms for Married Filing Jointly returns. VITA sites do not prepare Married Filing Separately returns

For more information on ongoing events, visit the United Way of Southern Cameron County Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/UnitedWayRGV/.

Valley Initiative for Development & Advancement (VIDA) https://www.vidacareers.org/ 417 S. Ohio Ave. Mercedes, TX (956) 903-1900 (800) 478-1770 (hotline) Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am -5:00pm VIDA helps low-income, unemployed, and underemployed residents of the Rio Grande Valley access the education and training they need to secure high-skilled, high-wage jobs by providing the necessary support services, career guidance, intensive case management, and financial assistance. VIDA counselors infuse group sessions with soft-skills training and wrap-around services such as: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

General employability Resume building Job interviewing preparation Time management Financial management Study skills Monthly case management sessions to help students address and overcome emotional challenges, financial struggles, and family and life stressors

Students will receive customized financial assistance based on need for: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Tuition Textbooks Uniforms Tools Childcare Transportation

VIDA Eligibility Requirements are as follows: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Resident of the Rio Grande Valley 18 years or older Eligible to work in the United States Below the 200% federal poverty guidelines, or Underemployed with family responsibilities earning less than $14, or Unemployed with family responsibilities registered with the Texas Workforce Commission. 14

To apply, complete the VIDA application located on https://a11443.socialsolutionsportal.com/apricot-intake/6f7064e9-0d50-40fb-8239-0cffd1e83fd1. For more information, visit the VIDA social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/vidargv or https://twitter.com/VIDA_Careers.

FOOD Brownsville Wellness Coalition https://www.brownsvillewellnesscoalition.com/ 1 West University Dr. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 465-4178 brownsvillewellnesscoalition@gmail.com ADMIN@BROWNSVILLEWELLNESSCOALITION.COM Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm The Brownsville Wellness Coalition (BWC) addresses the community’s poor health status by providing programs that promote nutrition and healthy lifestyles. The Brownsville Wellness Coalition cultivates healthy food and lifestyles by: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Strengthening the local food system Improving access to nutritious affordable food Educating the public to produce, cook, and eat healthy local food Promoting healthy lifestyle choices Providing opportunities to engage in physical activity

For more information on ongoing events and food distributions schedule, visit the Brownsville Wellness Coalition Facebook page https://www.Facebook.com/brownsvillewellnesscoalition.

Cameron County Public Health WIC Program https://www.texaswic.org/about-wic 1390 W. Expressway 83 Brownsville, Texas 78520 (956) 247 -3672 Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am -5:00pm, Fri. 8:00am – 1:00pm The Cameron County Public Health WIC program helps pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding a baby under one year of age, and women who have had a baby in the past six months. Parents, step-parents, guardians, and foster parents of infants and children under the age of 5 can apply for their children. WIC provides: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Nutrition education and counseling Nutritious food Referrals to health and human services Breastfeeding support

You may apply for WIC if you are working or unemployed. TANF, SNAP, Medicaid recipients automatically qualify. Proof of income, proof of residency (living in U.S.), and one form of identification are needed to apply

To apply, complete the online application located at https://texaswic.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6G3nsSAEyVNzixn?Q_Language=EN&source=we bsite-text-link After you submit this form, someone from your local WIC clinic will contact you. For more information, visit the current income guidelines at www.texaswic.org/apply#incomeguidelines or www.texaswic.org/apply#faq. Food Bank RGV https://foodbankrgv.com/ 3105, 724 North Cage Blvd. Pharr, Texas 78577 (956) 682-8101 zadame@foodbankrgv.com Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am -5:30pm Food Bank RGV provides food assistance, nutrition education, and access to community services. Emergency food assistance is available for individuals in need. Pantry services can only be used once every 30 days. After the initial visit to the Food Bank RGV, participants will receive a referral to an area food pantry that can provide food assistance on a monthly basis. Please bring the following to receive assistance: ▪ Picture ID ▪ Proof of address (such as a current utility bill) For a referral to a pantry close to you, call (956) 682-8101 and select option 2. For more information on ongoing events, visit the FoodBank RGV social media pages at www.facebook.com/FoodBankRGV or twitter.com/foodbankrgv.

Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry https://www.harlingenneighborhoodfoodpantry.org/ 801 East Harrison St. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 428-3972 Food distribution: Wed 9:00am – 11:30am (drive thru only) The Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry provides food, clothing, and housewares for those with low income and provides baby supplies to mothers. Housed families may receive food once per month; the homeless may receive food every week. Please bring the following to receive assistance: ▪ Picture ID ▪ Proof of address (such as a current utility bill) ▪ Empty car trunk For more information on ongoing events, visit the Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Harlingen-Neighborhood-Food-Pantry-Harlingen-Texas-151087474951116/

Good Neighbor Settlement House www.goodneighborsettlement.org 1254 E. Tyler St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-2368 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm Good Neighbor Settlement House is a nonprofit, multi-service agency that assists the men, women, and children of Brownsville by providing: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Nutritious meals Clothing Showers Support services

Good Neighbor Settlement House provides three nutritious meals per day at no cost. The soup kitchen hours are on Monday through Friday as follows: ▪ ▪ ▪

Breakfast: 8:30 am.- 9:30 am. Lunch: 12:30 pm.- 1:30 pm. Dinner: 4:30 pm.- 5:30pm.

For information on ongoing events, visit the Good Neighbor Settlement House Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/gnshbvlle/.

Loaves and Fishes https://www.lfrgv.org 514 S. E Street Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-1014 office@lfrgv.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Loaves & Fishes offers help and hope to our community and provides temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling. The Bread of Life Dining Hall serves hot meals during the day. Meals are always free and are served seven days a week at the Harlingen and Raymondville locations. The dining hall offers a variety of nutritious food for children and adults. ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Breakfast: 7:00 am.- 8:00 am. Lunch: 12:00 pm.- 1:00 pm. Dinner: 4:00 pm.- 5:00pm. Saturday and Sunday for shelter residents only 18

The Harvest Table Food Pantry distributes food bags on Wednesdays and Thursdays out of their Harlingen facility. Food bags include non-perishable food items such as canned vegetables, fruits, and tuna, cereals, pasta, and beans. For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) - Browne Clinic https://www.wicprograms.org/li/browne_wic_clinic 9901 California Rd. Brownsville, TX 78520 (888) 942-4847 Office Hours: Mon-Wed 8:00am-8:00pm, Thur. 8:00am -5:00pm, Fri. 8:00am – 1:00pm Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) - Garden Plaza https://www.wicprograms.org/li/garden-plaza-wic-clinic 1225 North Expressway Suite 2D Brownsville, TX 78520 (888) 942-4847 Office Hours: Mon-Wed 8:00am-8:00pm, Thur. 8:00am -5:00pm, Fri. 8:00am – 1:00pm Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infant and Children (WIC) program helps pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding a baby under 1 year of age, and women who have had a baby in the past six months. Parents, step-parents, guardians, and foster parents of infants and children under the age of 5 can apply for their children. WIC provides: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Nutrition education and counseling Nutritious foods Referrals to health and human services Breastfeeding support

Please bring the following: ▪

▪ ▪

Applicants who receive Medicaid, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, or Food Stamps automatically meet income eligibility. They should bring proof of their participation in one of these programs, and do not have to bring other income documents. Household’s source of income or wages (such as a paycheck stub, current tax return, letter from an employer, Social Security check, or child-support check). Proof of residence (such as a utility or credit-card bill, rent receipt, or business letter). Identification for each person applying for WIC benefits and the adult responsible for the benefits (such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, immunization card, employee or school identification card with picture, Social Security card, or hospital records).

For more information, visit https://www.wicprograms.org/li/browne_wic_clinic.

Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - Statewide https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded grant program that provides financial help to individuals and families to buy food. The program provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of families experiencing food insecurity so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. The household must meet certain requirements to be eligible for SNAP and receive benefits such as: ▪ ▪

▪ ▪

Individuals in eligible low-income households. Most adults ages 18 to 49 with no children in their home can get SNAP for only three months in a three-year period. The benefit period might be longer if the person works at least 20 hours a week or is in a job or training program. Some adults might not have to meet work requirements to get benefits, such as those who have a disability or are pregnant. Households in which all members are either older adults (age 60 and older) or people with disabilities are eligible to participate in the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP), which makes the SNAP application process easier and provides three years of benefits at a time instead of six months.

For more information, visit https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits. To apply for benefits, visit https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/ytb/Public/Login. United Way of Southern Cameron County https://www.unitedwayrgv.org 634 East Levee St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 548-6880 United Way of Southern Cameron County provides financial support, food and nutrition, health services and education, and tax assistance through VITA. Distribution of bags of groceries via drive-thru are scheduled every Friday at 8:00 a.m. alternating between the Brownsville Event Center and Besteiro Middle School. For information on ongoing events, visit the United way of Southern Cameron County Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/UnitedWayRGV/.

TSC is committed to ACCESS reaching out to our diverse communities, expanding linkages with industry, and strengthening our partnerships with area ISDs and universities to create accessible and affordable educational pathways for our students, faculty, and staff.

HOUSING Brownsville Housing Authority www.hacb.us atrejo@hacb.us 2606 Boca Chica Blvd. Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 541-8315 Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am-5:30pm. Fri. 8:00am-12:00pm The Housing Authority of Brownsville serves low-income families and provides access to affordable, quality housing, and self-sufficiency through education. They provide three types of housing assistance: public housing, Section 8 voucher, and Homeownership voucher programs. The HUD Public Housing assistance program provides decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families and individuals. Public housing comes in all sizes and types, from single-family houses to high-rise apartments for elderly families. Eligibility is determined by the local public housing agency (PHA). Eligibility is based on: • Annual gross income (income limits) • Whether the applicant qualifies as elderly, a person with a disability, or as a family • U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status The Section 8 housing choice voucher program is the federal government’s major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Since housing assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants are able to find their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Eligibility for a housing voucher is determined by the PHA based on: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Total annual gross income Family size U.S. citizenship and or eligible immigration status Family income, which may not exceed 50% of the median income for the county. Median income levels are published by HUD and vary by location. The PHA serving your community can provide you with the income limits for your area and family size.

To apply, submit your online application through the application web portal at www.hacb.us. For more information, call (956) 214-1510 or submit your questions via email at clientservices@hacb.us. The Homeownership Voucher Program provides families with vouchers for first-time homeowners to meet monthly mortgage expenses.

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Eligibility requirements include: Must be a first-time homeowner or cooperative member No family member has owned or had an ownership interest in their residence for at least three years Credit score of 680 points or above or determined by lender/mortgage company Minimum income requirement - Except in the case of disabled families, the qualified annual income of the adult family members who will own the home must not be less than the Federal minimum hourly wage multiplied by 2,000 hours. For disabled families, the qualified annual income of the adult family members who will own the home must not be less than the monthly Federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit for an individual living alone multiplied by 12. The PHA may also establish a higher minimum income requirement for either or both types of families. Except in the case of an elderly or disabled family, welfare assistance is not counted in determining whether the family meets the minimum income requirement. Employment requirement- Except in the case of elderly and disabled families, one or more adults in the family who will own the home is currently employed on a full-time basis and has been continuously employed on a full-time basis for at least one year before the commencement of homeownership assistance Homeownership counseling - applicants must attend and satisfactorily complete the PHA’s pre-assistance homeownership and housing counseling program Must be receiving subsidy assistance thru the Brownsville Housing Authority Section 8 Program Must meet Financial Institution Eligibility Requirements for a mortgage Any additional PHA eligibility requirements

For more information on Homeownership program, contact Cesar Barrera – Home Ownership Specialist at (956) 214-1525 or via email cbarrera@hacb.us. For more information on ongoing events, visit the Housing Authority of Brownsville Facebook page https://www.Facebook.com/HACB1. Catholic Charities of the RGV www.catholiccharitiesrgv.org 955 W. Price Rd. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 541-0220 Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am -5:00pm, Fri 8:00am – 12:00pm The Catholic Charities of the RGV Emergency Assistance Program provides short-term utility assistance, hotel/motel vouchers to assist with temporary shelter for the homeless, medical needs vouchers, and medical consultation and prescription assistance for those in need. For more information, call the office or visit the Catholic Charities Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Catholic-Charities-of-the-Rio-Grande-Valley-155063511172204/.

Come Dream Come Build https://cdcb.org/

901 E. Levee St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 548-2302 info@youthbuild.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am -5:30pm Come Dream Come Build (CDCB) provides homeownership services, mortgage assistance, financial literacy information, and coaching. CDCB is a multifaceted affordable housing organization devoted to utilizing collaborative partnerships to create sustainable communities across the Rio Grande Valley through quality education, model financing, efficient home design, and superior construction. For more information and to apply, visit the Come Dream Come Build website at www.cdcb.org. For more information on ongoing events, visit the Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/cdcbcomedreamcomebuild. Friendship of Women, Inc. http://www.fowinc.com/ 95 E. Price Rd. Suite C Brownsville, TX 78523 (956) 544-7412 info@fowinc.com The Friendship of Women serves men, women, and children impacted by family and sexual violence. All survivor services are free and confidential. Friendship of Women provides comprehensive services such as: ▪ ▪ ▪

Emergency shelter Crisis intervention Legal advocacy to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their families

Survivors may obtain individual and group therapy after a counselor determines what type of counseling services would be most beneficial. Counseling for adults and children is available free of charge at our Emergency Shelter and at our Community Outreach Center. Counseling services at Friendship of Women, Inc. are tailored to meet a survivor’s needs. Our clinical team is made up of two bilingual Licensed Professional Counselors with more than 25 years of combined experience working with survivors of family violence and sexual assault/childhood abuse. For more information, call the office or visit the FOW website and social media pages at https://www.facebook.com/Friendship.of.Women/ and https://twitter.com/fowinc

Family Crisis Center www.familycrisisctr.org 616 W. Taylor Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-9304 24-hour hotline (866)423-9304 contactfcc@familycrisisctr.org Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am -5:30pm, Fri 8:30am -3:30pm Family Crisis Center, Inc. is a domestic violence and rape crisis center that provides services to victims and their families. All survivor services are free and confidential. Services include: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

24-hour hotline Emergency shelter Legal advocacy Peer support Crisis intervention Emergency transportation Counseling

For more information, call the office or visit the Family Crisis Center website and social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/familycrisisctr.cameron.willacy/.

Loaves and Fishes https://www.lfrgv.org 514 S. E Street Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-1014 office@lfrgv.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Loaves & Fishes offers help and hope to the community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition, and mental health services and counseling. The Open Arms Homeless Shelter provides temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals and families. The shelter does not discriminate against race, ethnicity, gender, or religion. Every shelter resident is required to complete an intake application, so they are encouraged to bring their identification and any documentation. Family Emergency Assistance provides short-term assistance to families in need. The program helps with: ▪ Rent or utilities ▪ Case management ▪ Food bags

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV. Mujeres Unidas / Women Together www.mujeresunidas.org 511 N. Cynthia St. McAllen, Texas 78501 956-630-4878 24/7 Crisis Hotline 800-580-4879 WTVolunteer_Events@yahoo.com Mujeres Unidas, provides counseling for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Survivors are able to learn about the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault, and safety planning. Mujeres Unidas is the only agency which provides Emergency Shelter and Support Services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Hidalgo County. Support services include: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Crisis intervention counseling Safety planning Trauma informed counseling Legal advocacy (accompaniment to law enforcement offices and court hearings) Transitional housing Hospital accompaniment for survivors of a sexual assault

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/mujeres.unidas.94. Ozanam Center www.ozanambrownsvillecenter.org 656 N. Minnesota Ave. Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 831-6331 Office Hours: Open 24 hours 7 days a week. The Ozanam Center provides temporary emergency housing, referral to social work services, and clothing to individuals and families experiencing homlessness. The Ozanam Center is an emergency shelter facility that provides temporary shelter (30 days) and other immediate needs to the homeless in the area regardless of their sex, color, creed, national origin, or any other determination. The Ozanam Center provides: ▪ Case management ▪ Three basic meals daily ▪ Clothes, showers ▪ After-school tutoring ▪ Food pantry program 25

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Rapid re-housing program Rental assistance

Meals are provided at the following times: ▪ Breakfast: 7:30 am.- 8:30 am. ▪ Lunch: 11:30 am.- 12:30 pm. ▪ Dinner: 4:30 pm.- 5:30pm For more information, call the office at (956) 831-6331.

TSC is committed to SERVICE encouraging and recognizing collaboration, teamwork, compassion, and service to others, faculty, and staff.

LEGAL AID Extended Foster Care– Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) www.dfps.texas.gov/child_protection/Youth_and_young_adults/transitional_living/Extended_Foster_care/documents/ext ended_foster_care_trifold_ENG.pdf

Toll-free Intake Line: 888-988-9996 Extended Foster Care (EFC) is a voluntary program that offers young adults turning 18 in DFPS care with opportunities to continue foster care placement and facilitate the transition to independence with DFPS supervision, if there is an available placement. Young adults may stay for Extended Foster Care if they are: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Attending high school or a program leading to a high school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate (GED) Attending college or other institutions of higher learning Participating in a program or activity that promotes or removes barriers to employment Employed for at least 80 hours a month Are incapable of doing any of the allowed activities described in Texas Family Code Sec. 264.101 (a-1) due to a documented medical condition

For more information, visit the EFC pamphlet at https://www.dfps.texas.gov/Child_Protection/Youth_and_Young_Adults/Transitional_Living/Exten ded_Foster_Care/documents/Extended_Foster_Care_Trifold_ENG.pdf.

Loaves and Fishes https://www.lfrgv.org 514 S. E Street Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-1014 office@lfrgv.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm Loaves & Fishes, offers help and hope to our community through the following services: temporary residence and assistance for homeless individuals, job search, rental and utility assistance, food and nutrition and mental health services and counseling. For more information visit the Loaves and Fishes webpage at https://lfrgv.org/ and Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/LoavesandFishesRGV.

For more information, visit the Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/mujeres.unidas.94. Proyecto Juan Diego www.proyecto-jd.org 3910 Paredes Line Rd Brownsville, Texas 78526 (956) 542-2488 info@proyecto-jd.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 4:30pm Proyecto Juan Diego provides low-income families support, guidance, and education in the areas of health, family, education, immigration, and civic engagement. Proyecto Juan Diego programs include: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

GED English classes Citizenship classes Immigration services Aerobics Diabetes Prevention Program Parenting classes, mother and child development Stress and anger management Tutorial and mentoring for youth Free counseling services Case management 28

For more information, call (956) 542-2488 to get documentation and program requirements as different programs have different qualifications. For more information on ongoing events visit, the webpage www.proyecto-jd.org and Facebook page at https://www.Facebook.com/proyectojuandiego.

Texas Foster Youth Justice Project c/o Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid www.texasfosteryouth.org 1111 N Main Ave San Antonio, TX 78212 1-877-313-3688 info@texasfosteryouth.org Office Hours : Mon-Fri 8:00am -5:00pm Texas Foster Youth Justice Project provides legal support, guidance, and representation to current and former foster youth and helps foster youth address issues that may arise when aging out of the foster care system such as: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Financial Housing Employment Understanding and protecting their legal rights

Requests for information, referrals, or representation can be made any time by email or via our website, or by phone. Intake interviews will be scheduled individually. For more information, visit the website and social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/TRLegalAid/ and https://www.instagram.com/texasriograndelegalaid/.

TSC is committed to EXCELLENCE by providing relevant, high-quality educational experiences and a supportive learning environment to advance knowledge, promote understanding, and achieve the academic and workforce potential of students, faculty, and staff. 29

HEALTH SERVICES Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas (BHSST) www.bhsst.org 2301 Industrial Blvd. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)-368-5557 Office Hours: Mon - Thurs 8:00am-6:00pm; Fridays 8:00am-12:00pm The Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas currently offers outpatient treatment services for adults only (18 years of age and older) in Cameron County. These services are available to individuals who are suffering from a substance use disorder. BHSST is a Texas Department of State Health Services licensed treatment facility and can accept individuals who are insured through Medicaid or private pay. The program consists of: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

12-week outpatient schedule 6 individual session 24 group sessions Cognitive Behavioral Therapy curriculum featuring Motivational Interviewing techniques

For more information, call the office or visit the Facebook page https://www.Facebook.com/bhsofsouthtexas.

Good Neighbor Settlement House www.goodneighborsettlement.org 1254 E. Tyler St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-2368 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm Good Neighbor Settlement House is a nonprofit, multi-service agency that assists men, women, and children of Brownsville, TX., by providing: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Nutritious meals Clothing Showers Support services

A medical doctor provides free consultations every Tuesday from 9:00am – 1:00pm. To apply, please fill out the form located at https://www.goodneighborsettlement.org/ineedhelp or call the office at (956) 542-2368. For information on ongoing events, visit the Good Neighbor Settlement House Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/gnshbvlle/.

Su Clinica Familiar (Medical/Dental) https://www.suclinica.org 105 E. Alton Gloor Blvd. Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 831-8338 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm Su Clinica Familiar (Medical/Dental) 1706 Treasure Hills Blvd. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 365-6000 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm Su Clinica is a community health center that offers comprehensive health services in pediatrics, adult medicine, women’s health, prenatal care, and behavioral health, among others. Su Clinica Familiar locations provides: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Pediatrics Care Women’s Health Center Adult Medicine Dental On-site pharmacy Labwprl X-rays Night clinics Application assistance for government provided services and insurance such as Medicaid, Medicare, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

To make an appointment, call (956) 831-8338. For information on ongoing events, visit the Facebook page at https://gles.Facebook.com/SuClinicaBrownsville/.

TSC is committed to SUCCESS by empowering, engaging, and educating students, faculty, and staff to achieve their personal and professional aspirations for graduation, academic transfer, employment, and other educational goals. 31

TRANSPORTATION Brownsville Metro - ADA Paratransit Service https://www.brownsvilletx.gov/2233/Multi-Modal-TransportationDepartment?fbclid=IwAR3XI4SnVSG_c6wSyautSL7e09aIFBV8tMTPyf84ipcuADtJjd8mN2gyZY 755 International Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 956-546-Help / 956-541-4881 Office Hours: Mon-Sat. 6:00am-8:00pm Brownsville Metro connects communities by providing safe, innovative, reliable, and convenient multimodal transportation to advance the quality of life for all people. As the multimodal transportation department, Brownsville Metro provides fixed route bus services throughout the City of Brownsville, initiating from the downtown bus terminal with a bus transfer station on Ruben M. Torres Blvd. Most routes originate from La Plaza at Brownsville Terminal in downtown Brownsville (across from Texas Southmost College). Brownsville Metro also provides ADA compliant and Paratransit services to individuals with disabilities who are not able to ride the fixed route public transportation. To be eligible to use the curb-to-curb Paratransit Service, individuals must apply for a determination of eligibility. For more details and/or qualification information, please contact Paratransit Services at 956-5418381 or [711 or 800-735-2989] (TTY—Texas Relay). o

Request for reservations will be accepted during normal business hours on a “next day” basis (not 24 hours in advance) all days prior to days of service.

The Special Transit Service fare is $1.50 for each one-way trip. To stay up to date with routes visit https://www.brownsvilletx.gov/2191/Multi-Modal-Transportation To view the bus routes, visit www.brownsvilletx.gov/617/Bus-Routes . For more information, visit the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MMTBMetro/

TSC is committed to INNOVATION by embracing emerging technologies to enhance and expand teaching, learning, and service opportunities for students, faculty, and staff. 32

DISABILITY SERVICES SOCIAL SECURITY- STATEWIDE https://www.ssa.gov/ Social Security Administration 2005 W. Jefferson Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550 (866) 931-7075 Social Security pays a monthly benefit to workers who retire, become disabled, or dependents when a parent dies. Social Security benefits can help when you: • • • •

Age and retire Can't work because of a disability Lose a spouse (or a young child loses a parent) Have difficulty paying for essentials like food, clothing, and a home

To check for eligibility, complete the eligibility form located at https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/checkeligibility-for-benefits/questionnaire. To apply for benefits, complete the online application located at https://www.ssa.gov/apply .

Texas Department of Health and Human Services Blindness, Education, Screening & Treatment (BEST) https://www.hhs.texas.gov/ 701 W. 51st Street Austin, Texas 78751 512-438-2447 BESTprogram@hhsc.state.tx.us BEST provides free vision screenings and financial assistance to Texas residents for medically urgent eye treatment with a referral from an ophthalmologist. Those eligible for the program must be Texas residents at least 18 years of age without insurance or any other resource to pay for treatment, not be legally blind, and have a recommendation from an ophthalmologist. For information on ongoing events, visit the BEST website at https://www.hhs.texas.gov/

Texas Southmost College- Counseling and Student Accessibility Resources https://www.tsc.edu/office-of-student-life/mental-health-resources-off-campus-counseling-2/ Lightner Center, 102A 80 Fort Brown Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 295-3587 Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

TSC Counseling and Student Accessibility Resource office provides free counseling to currently enrolled students. Services offered are individual, family, couples, substance abuse, and anger management counseling, as well as skill-building, communication, listening, assertiveness, time management, and organizational skills. Services provided are: • • • • • • • • •

Registration assistance Accommodation request forms for faculty Volunteer note takers Assistive technology training Alternate format textbooks Accessible classroom furniture arrangements Sign language interpreting Referrals to other campus/community resources Test accommodations such as extended time, readers, or scribes

*Accommodations are granted on a case-by-case basis and are contingent upon documentation from a qualified professional or self-report of needs. To request services, call (956) 295-3587.

Texas Southmost College- Center for Academic Excellence https://www.tsc.edu/cae/ North 122 80 Fort Brown Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 295-3587 Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am-8:00pm; Fri 8:00am-5:00pm; Sat. 10:00am-2:00pm TSC Center for Academic Excellence provides students with learning resources, including tutoring and writing consultations, to help all TSC students succeed in their coursework. Peer tutoring services and review sessions are provided for math, reading, writing, and other subjects. Tutors are certified by the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) and have excellent communications skills, as well as broad knowledge of the subjects they tutor. Remote tutoring is also provided thru BrainFuse, an online tutoring service designed for a paperless campus. They provide immediate and scheduled online tutoring for all TSC students in a variety of subjects, including Composition, College Algebra, and Anatomy & Physiology, to name a few. Students may use their whiteboard feature to collaborate with online tutors; submit essays and questions for review, form online study groups with peers and instructors, and record live tutoring sessions to watch later. To access BrainFuse, students may to their Canvas course and select the “BrainFuse” link at the bottom of the left-hand menu. Students may also download the BrainFuse app from the app store to access their services. For more information or questions regarding tutoring services, call (956) 295-3790.

VETERANS ASSISTANCE American Legion- Nationwide https://www.legion.org/ (800) 504-4098 The American Legion recognizes that families of deployed and activated military personnel face special difficulties and hardships. With the help of the Family Support Network, these families do not have to shoulder this burden alone. Families can request assistance from local American Legion family members by calling the toll-free number or filling out an online application. The American Legion’s Legacy Scholarship provides college scholarship money to children of post-9/11 veterans who died on active duty, or have a combined VA disability rating of 50 percent or greater. The application period is Nov. 15 to April 15. For more information or to join the American Legion, visit the webpage located at https://www.legion.org/. Texas Southmost College- Veterans Success Center Oliveira Student Services 80 Fort Brown Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 295-3682 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm The mission of the TSC Veteran’s Success Center office is to support veterans and family members by providing resources to facilitate the transition from military to academic life. The center also provides an environment where veterans can gather to share experiences and support one another through the educational process. The following services are provided: • • • • • • •

Certification of Federal and State educational benefits for Veterans, Military and their dependents. (Ch. 30,31,33,35, 1606, and Hazelwood) Admissions application assistance Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA completion assistance Veterans Resource Center computer lab Study room VA work-study allowance program Veterans’ lounge

For eligibility requirements and documentation, visit the Veterans Education Benefit checklist at https://wwwhttps://www.tsc.edu/assets/documents/departments/veterans/TSC_VA_Benefits_Checkli st_Updated.pdf To apply for benefits, visit the Veterans Success Center benefits webpage at https://www.tsc.edu/financial-aid/veterans-success-center/benefits/.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Friendship of Women, Inc. http://www.fowinc.com/ 95 E. Price Rd. Suite C Brownsville, TX 78523 (956) 544-7412 info@fowinc.com The Friendship of Women serves men, women, and children impacted by family and sexual violence. All survivor services are free and confidential. Friendship of Women provides comprehensive services such as: ▪ ▪ ▪

Emergency shelter Crisis intervention Legal advocacy to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their families

Survivors may obtain individual and group therapy after a counselor determines what type of counseling services would be most beneficial. Counseling for adults and children is available free of charge at our Emergency Shelter and at our Community Outreach Center. Counseling services at Friendship of Women, Inc. are tailored to meet a survivor’s needs. Our clinical team is made up of two bilingual Licensed Professional Counselors with more than 25 years of combined experience working with survivors of family violence and sexual assault/childhood abuse. For more information, call (956) 544-7412 or visit the FOW website and social media pages at https://www.facebook.com/Friendship.of.Women/ and https://twitter.com/fowinc.

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Crisis intervention Emergency transportation Counseling

For more information, visit the Family Crisis Center website and social media pages at https://www.Facebook.com/familycrisisctr.cameron.willacy/.

Mujeres Unidas / Women Together www.mujeresunidas.org 511 N. Cynthia St. McAllen, Texas 78501 956-630-4878 24/7 Crisis Hotline 800-580-4879 WTVolunteer_Events@yahoo.com Mujeres Unidas, provides counseling for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Survivors are able to learn about the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault, and safety planning. Mujeres Unidas is the only agency which provides Emergency Shelter and Support Services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Hidalgo County. Support services include: Crisis intervention counseling Safety planning Trauma informed counseling Legal advocacy (accompaniment to law enforcement offices and court hearings) Transitional housing Hospital accompaniment for survivors of a sexual assaultFor more information, visit the ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

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Loaves and Fishes Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/mujeres.unidas.94. 37

Proyecto Juan Diego www.proyecto-jd.org 3910 Paredes Line Rd Brownsville, Texas 78526 (956) 542-2488 info@proyecto-jd.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 8:00am - 4:30pm Proyecto Juan Diego provides low-income families support, guidance, and education in the areas of health, family, education, immigration, and civic engagement. Proyecto Juan Diego programs include: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

SOMOS Foundation https://www.fundacionsomos.com/ 42 Paredes Line Rd. Suite C Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 460-7944 somos.brownsville@gmail.com Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am -5:30pm, Fri 8:30am -3:30pm The SOMOS Foundation is a community-based organization that provides faith based counseling and coaching services for families and teenagers. They provide

• Couples/marriage counseling • Teen counseling • Life skills workshops, such as time management and wellness To make an appointment, call (956) 460-7944. For more information, visit the Facebook page at 38

https://www.Facebook.com/somos.integracionfamiliar/.