20 Ways To Find Prescription Assistance In Houston
If you regularly take prescription drugs you are likely aware of how costly they can be.
According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Americans spend nearly $1,200 on medications each year.
Whether these unaffordable prices are due to “research costs” or prescription drugs not being regulated I have no idea.
What I do know is that people need options and hopefully, you will take away some beneficial ones from this article.
In this article, I will share 18 different options for prescription assistance. Those options come from categories like:
- Prescription drug discount companies
- Paid pharmacy memberships
- $4 prescription lists
- Prescription assistance from Medicare
- Local help for seniors
- Primary care options for the uninsured
- Crime Victim Compensation programs
- STD clinics
- Non-profits and churches
20 Ways To Find Prescription Assistance
While Houston is in the name of this article nearly every prescription assistance option found below can be used no matter what part of the country you are in.
Prescription Drug Discount Companies
In this section, I will share a few companies that offer prescription help via discount drug cards. These are cards that you’ve likely seen at your doctor’s office, pharmacy counter or community center.
These cards provide discounts on prescriptions at pharmacies that they partner with. They can be used by anyone insured or not, however, if you lack insurance this should be an option that you consider.
1. GoodRx
GoodRx is a free website that helps you find the cheapest prescription drugs in your zip code. They do this by offering prescription drug savings cards, an interactive website, and a mobile app.
The GoodRx app is very easy to use. You simply type in the name of your prescription drug and GoodRx displays the medication, what it’s used for, and its prices at various pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, etc) in your zip code.
Another helpful feature that they offer is the GoodRx coupon. In addition to telling you where the cheapest prescriptions are they will also give you a coupon to help you save money.
Again GoodRx is a free service and a good option for anyone needing prescription assistance whether you are insured, uninsured or a family pet!
2. Needy Meds
Similar to GoodRx, Needy Meds also helps you with prescription assistance or DME discounts. Needy Meds does this by offering drug discount cards (that you can print right now), a mobile app, webinars that teach you how to save and a website filled with resources.
One useful resource found on Needy Meds is a tool that helps you to find pharmaceutical patient assistance programs near your zip code. These programs refer you to prescription assistance programs and help you complete the application.
For more information on Needy Meds, visit their website or call them at 800.503.6897.
Paid Pharmacy Memberships
In this section, you will find pharmacies who provide paid memberships.
In exchange for paying the annual membership, these pharmacies promise to offer you discounts on prescription medications.
Again anyone can use these memberships, however, individuals who are uninsured should surely pay close attention.
3. CVS Carepass
CVS Carepass is a paid membership ($48 to $60 per year) that provides a number of perks at CVS.
Some of those perks include:
- Free 1 to 2 day shipping
- Free prescription delivery (read the exclusions on this)
- 24-hour pharmacist helpline to have your prescription questions answered
- 20% off CVS health products. This includes over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and other personal care items.
- $10 each month added to your CVS ExtraCare card
While the CVS Carepass does not include prescription drugs discounts you may be able to save with CVS Pharmacy Rewards Program (money/rewards earned for prescription refills) or CVS Pharmacy email alerts (deals on prescriptions).
4. Walgreens Prescription Saving Club
The Walgreens Prescription Saving Club can help you with prescription assistance on cash price generic and brand-name medications.
According to Walgreens Prescription Savings Club, the benefits include:
- Discounts on over 8,000 medications
- Savings of 5 to 20% on most immunizations
- 10% bonus on Walgreens brands
- Savings on preventive and life-saving medications that your insurance may not cover
- Discounts on some medications for pets
The annual cost of the membership is $20 for individuals and $35 for a family. Here is a list of medications covered under the prescription saving club.
5. Kroger Pharmacy Rx Savings Club
The Kroger Rx Savings Club is a paid membership that reduces the cost of prescription drugs. This is not an insurance plan however it can be considered a prescription plan for the uninsured.
The annual cost of the membership is $36 for an individual and $72 for a family of 5 (pets included in the 5).
Benefits of the Kroger Pharmacy membership are:
- Over 100 generic meds priced at $3 and $6 (30 and 90 day supply)
- Some free medications
- Discounts on 1000s of brand-name and generic prescriptions
To see the price your prescriptions at Kroger go here.
$4 Prescriptions
These two options offer generic medications starting at just $4. Unlike the previous options, there are no memberships needed to purchase medications at these prices.
Both insured and uninsured individuals should consider these options.
6. HEB $4 Generic Medications
HEB is another place to find prescription assistance. They offer hundreds of medications for as little as $4. Unlike other pharmacies, no membership is required to for these $4 prescriptions.
Medications for the price of $4 – $12 are 30-day supplies. If you prefer 90 day supply dosages those prices can range from $10 to $30. HEB also offers medications for $4, $8, and 12 for pets also.
Here is a list of generic prescriptions offered at HEB pharmacies.
Other services offered at HEB:
- Pharmacy delivery service. Delivery is free for 2 or more prescriptions ($5 for 1 prescription).
- Immunizations
- A Specialty Pharmacy to answer medication questions about chronic conditions related to Hep C, dermatology, oral oncology, blood disorders, multiple sclerosis and more. You can call them at 877.432.9355.
- FlavoRX is a service that allows you to add a flavor to a liquid prescription for free. Cherry, bubble gum, vanilla, orange are all possibilities!
- Scrip Talk is a device that tells you the dosage of medications you should be taking. This service was made for individuals who have a hard time reading the prescription label. This device is free.
- Health Screenings are offered on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9 am to 2 pm. This includes free blood pressure and glucose screenings by a certified screener. Cholesterol tests for , A1C diabetes tests for and cholesterol tests (must fast) for are also offered.
For more details on how HEB can help with prescriptions visit their website or the nearest store.
7. Walmart $4 List
Walmart helps you save on medications with its $4 prescription program. No membership is required to purchase $4 medications.
In this discount drug program, you will find 30-day supplies of medications for $4 while a 90 supply is $10. To see if Walmart offers any of your prescriptions go here to see a complete list.
Other prescription assistance related services include:
- Walmart Home Delivery Pharmacy which mails your prescriptions to your home.
- Pet medications
- The Walmart Specialty Pharmacy helps you manage chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, hepatitis, psoriasis, Crohn’s Disease and more.
- Immunizations are free for most insurance plans. Travel vaccines and back to school immunizations also offered.
If you are uninsured the Walmart’s $4 medications list should be considered because of its ability to help with prescription costs.
Prescription Assistance From Medicare
Individuals who have Medicare can find help paying for medications in this section.
8. Medicare Advantage Plans (Medicare Part C)
A Medicare Advantage Plan (aka Medicare Part C) is a way for individuals with Medicare to potentially receive prescription assistance.
Medicare Advantage Plans are private health insurance plans for people with Medicare. Essentially Medicare pays private health insurance companies (Amerigroup, Humana, Kelsey Care, etc) to manage the care of their Medicare enrollees.
Note: When you sign up for Medicare Advantage Plans aka Medicare Part C it replaces both your Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical insurance) plans.
To encourage clients to sign up for Medicare Advantage Plans companies will offer incentives like prescription drug coverage.
While a Medicare Advantage Plan can potentially provide prescription help for seniors on Medicare you want to make certain that your current medications are on the plan’s formulary. Medicare Advantage Plans last for a year, so the last thing you need is to be stuck in a plan that does not cover your prescription costs.
9. Medicare Prescription Plan (Medicare Part D)
Medicare Part D also offers prescription help for seniors on Medicare.
Note: You must have Medicare Part A and B to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan. You cannot be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Part D plan at the same time.
Medicare Part D is essentially an insurance plan for your medications. You pay a monthly premium to an insurance company and in return, you get to use their pharmacies. Part D coverage allows you to pay a copay for the medication as opposed to the full costs.
10. Medicare Saving Programs
Medicare Savings Programs do not specifically help out with prescriptions, however, they can save you money in other areas.
What Medicare Savings Programs will help you pay for are the costs of your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.
There are 4 different Medicare Savings Programs:
- Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program (QMB) – Pays for your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance
- Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Program (SLMB) – Pays for only Medicare Part B premiums.
- Qualifying Individual Program (QI) – Pays for only Medicare Part B premiums. This provides the same coverage as the SLMB Program, however, the QI Program is for those with slightly higher incomes who DO NOT qualify for Medicaid.
- Qualified Disabled and Working Individual Program (QDWI) – Pays Medicare Part A premium.
To apply for these programs you will have to contact your state’s Health and Human Services Department. Your income is the biggest factor to determine if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program.
For Texas residents you can apply for this benefit at Your Texas Benefits, call them at 877.541.7905 or find a Texas Health and Human Services office near you.
Local Guidance For Seniors Seeking Prescription Drug Assistance
Here you will find agencies that help seniors with prescription costs.
11. Area Agency on Aging
Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is an organization that specializes in senior community resources.
AAA agencies are located all over the US and provide seniors with assistance on finding resources like meals on wheels, medical equipment, and even prescription assistance programs.
To speak with someone at the Houston Area Agency on Aging call 832.393.4301. Care Connect Aging and Disability Resources Center is a Houston agency that provides similar services. You can contact them at 713.692.1635 or visit their website because they have lots of resources listed.
For a listing of nationwide Area Agency on Aging organizations visit the Eldercare Locator website.
Primary Care Options For The Uninsured
In order to obtain a prescription, you will need a doctor to write it and you can find one to treat you (even if you’re uninsured) here.
12. Houston Low-Cost Medical Clinics
Another option for prescription assistance is via low-cost medical clinics in Houston. These are also known as “free clinics” or the more formal term “FQHCs Federally Qualified Health Centers”.
At these locations, you do not need to have an income or insurance to receive treatment. These Houston clinics will not turn you away. Because of that, FQHCs offer a good option for anyone who is uninsured and needs medical treatment.
While these clinics do not typically have a pharmacy, they can potentially help you with prescription assistance once they have treated you.
13. Harris Health System or Gold Card Clinics in Houston
Harris Health System is the official name although most people still refer to this health plan as the Gold Card.
The Gold Card is the safety net insurance plan for anyone who is uninsured in Harris County. Services offered at Houston Gold Card clinics are things like primary care, specialty care (high blood pressure, diabetes, etc) and prescription assistance.
To apply for the Gold Card you will need to visit a Harris Health eligibility center. You can also call them at 713.566.6509 or 713.526.4243.
Prescription Assistance For STDS
Options here will help you find treatment, pills, and prescriptions for STDs.
14. STD Testing Sites For Referrals To Prescription Assistance
If you need help finding affordable medications for a sexually transmitted disease consider contacting an STD testing site in Houston.
Some of these sites have their own pharmacies. Others at the very least can refer you to a place where you can find affordable mediations.
To find a testing center near you visit the CDC website.
Crime Victims Compensation Programs
If you are the victim of a crime and suffer a financial loss a Crime Victims Compensation Program may be able to help you with prescriptions and other costs.
15. Crime Victims Compensation For Prescriptions
If you were the victim of a crime, you could be eligible for assistance via a Crime Victims Compensation Program.
Note: Typically these programs will reimburse any money spent so this assistance is not immediate.
The way it works is each state receives funding to help cover financial costs like prescription assistance, medical treatment, moving expenses, and funerals. The survivors must apply for victims compensation which includes completing an application and submitting any bills as a result of the crime committed against them.
If you need help applying for a victims compensation program you can contact your state’s attorney general or the Crime Victim Compensation Board in your state.
Also, local police departments (Houston PD, Harris County Sheriff’s Office) have their own Crime Victims Assistance Units that are staffed by victim’s advocates who can guide you through the process.
Go here to apply for Victim’s Compensation with the Texas Attorney General. You can also call them at 800.983.9933 or 512.936.1200.
Local Non-Profits And Churches To Help With Prescription Assistance
The resources in this section are provided by non-profits and churches. While funds are limited with these types of organizations, it’s still worth considering.
16. Non-Profits In Your Area
Many non-profit organizations receive government grants to assist individuals in their communities with basic needs. These basic needs can be anything from rent, food, and in some cases prescription drug assistance.
You can use the table below to find a non-profit in your area. The best ways to search this table are by typing your zip code, city or a specific word like “prescription”.
| Agency | Address | Phone | Type of Assistance | Area/Zip Code served | Hourss |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AIDS Foundation HoustonWeb | 6260 Westpark Dr #100 | 713.623.6796 | Only offers assistance to clients with HIV and AIDS. Offers housing, mental health, substance abuse, assistance applying for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, Texas Women's Health Plan | Harris County | M-F 930 to 4pm. Walk ins welcome but priority is given to those with appointments. |
| Baytown Resource & Assistance Center Web | 5309 Decker Dr | 281.424.5752. *Must make an appointment. | Utilities, Clothing for Children, Employment assistance services | Residents of McNair, Baytown, Highlands or Chambers County | Mon: 8 to 5pm. Closed from 12 to 1pm for lunch. |
| Avenue 360 (formerly Bearing Omega and Houston Area Community Services) Web | 2150 West 18th Street | 713.426.0027 | Housing referrals, medical support, Rent, Mental Health | HIV/AIDs clients only | M - F: 8 to 5pm |
| Bethel's Heavenly HandsWeb | 12660 Sandpiper Dr | 713.729.6477 | Food, Clothing, Thursday Food Distributions, Senior Commodity Program, | Harris County | Mon, Tues, Fri |
| Braes Interfaith MinistriesWeb | 4300 W. Bellfort | 713.723.2671 | Food, Clothing | SW: 77025, 77035, 77045, 77051, 77053, 77054, 77071, 77085, 77096 | M-F 730a - 530p |
| Brentwood Community Foundation Web | 13033 1/2 Landmark Street | 713.852.2551 | Resources for those with HIV/AIDS. Rent, Mortgage, Food, Utilities, housing referrals | Those with HIV/AIDS in Houston area | M-F 8am to 5pm |
| Catholic Charities Main Office Web | 2900 Louisiana Other Locations: Houston Locations | 713.874.6590 or 713.526.4611 | Rent, Utilities, Food, Counseling, Adoption, Immigration, Limited Financial Assistance, Saturday Food Fairs, Case Management, Help applying for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, | 77003, 77004, 77011, 77012, 77013, 77020, 77021, 77023, 77029, 77030, 77054, 77547 | M-F 730a - 530p |
| Chinese Community CenterWeb | 9800 Town Park | 713.271.6100 | Utilities (must have cut off notice), Weatherization, Adult day program, Gold Card Application Assistance, Income Tax Help, SNAP, Free Legal Clinic, Citizenship Application Assistance, | 77024, 77036, 77042, 77056, 77057, 77063, 77072, 77074, 77077, 77079, 77081, 77082, 77083, 77094, 77099, 77450, 77494, 77477, | Tues 9am - 12pm |
| Christian Community CenterWeb | 3434 Branard | 713.871.9741 | Rent, Utilities, Food, Clothing, Vocational Training, Jobnet Program | W-SW: 77002, 77003, 77004, 77005, 77006, 77007, 77010, 77011, 77012, 77019, 77020, 77021, 77023, 77025, 77026, 77027, 77030, 77046, 77056, 77057, 77081, 77096, 77098, 77401 | M-F 10a - 2pm Sat 9a - 12p (food and clothing only) |
| City Fellowship Church Christian Rescue Mission Web | 3220 Hadley | 713.659.7750 | Rent, Utilities, Food | Harris County | Tues-F: 10a -12p |
| City of Houston Water Aid To Elderly Residents Program | 4200 Leeland Houston, TX 77023 Mail application here. | 713.371.1400 | Assistance paying water bill. $100 every six months. | Low income seniors (60+) residing in Houston are the priority. Individuals w disabilities and low income families are also encourage to apply. Web | Water Assistance Application: Web |
| City Wide ClubWeb | Multiple locations | 713.752.2582 | Rent, Utilities, Food, Employment Referrals, Housing and Shelter Recovery Program - room and board for families, seniors, homeless faced w physical, mental substance abuse challenges, Project Warm-Up helps with electric heaters and utilities, Project Cool Down helps w fans and shelters in summer | Harris County and surrounding areas | Tues-Th 10a-1p |
| Covenant House Texas Web | 1111 Lovett Blvd | 713.523.2231 | Crisis shelter, Transitional shelter for youth ages 18 to 20. Medical and clothing provided. Job placement for young adults. | Houston area | M-F 8a to 5p |
| Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) Web | 713.957.4357 or 211 | Utilities Assistance for low income seniors (60+) and/or have documented disability expected to last 12 months | Harris County | M-F 8a-5p | |
| Cypress Area Ministries Web | 11202 Huffmeister | 281.955.7684 | Rent, utilities, food, clothing. CAM may pay a portion of the past due balance on a utility bill. The client is required to pay the balance of the amount past due, or have a pledge for that amount, prior to CAM’s paying the pledged amount. | 77065, 77095, 77429, 77433 | M-F 10a-2p |
| Fair Haven Methodist Church Web | 1330 Gessner | 713.476.4346 or (713) 468-3276 | Food | 77024, 77027, 77041, (Carverdale only), 77043, 77055, 77056, 77079, 77080, | M-F 10a-2p |
| First Baptist ChurchWeb | 8009 Long Point | 713.554.8801 or (281) 229-9166 | Rent, mortgage, utilities, food, prescriptions | NW: Harris County | M-Th 730a-11a Walk Ins only |
| Gulf Coast Community Services Web | 9320 Kirby Dr | 713.393.4700 | Rent, utilities, food, clothing, Q cards, eyewear vouchers | SE: Harris County | M-F 8a-5p |
| Harris County Housing Authority Housing Choice Voucher Web | 8933 Interchange Dr. | 713.578.2100 | Housing Choice Vouchers distributed during open enrollment | Harris County | M-F 8a-5p |
| Harris County Social Services Web | 9418 Jense Drive | 713.696.7900 | Rent, Utilities, Bereavement, Veteran services | Harris County | M-F 8a-5p |
| Hester HouseWeb | 2020 Solo | 713.274.1394 | Hot meals/seniors summer/youth camp | NW - 5th Ward | M-F 8a-5p |
| Houston Volunteers of America Web | 4808 Yale Street (Independence Heights Location) 731 West Davis Conroe, TX | 713.460.0781 or 817.529.7300 | Assistance applying for SNAP, Medicaid, FASFA, Tax Season Assistance, Employment Placement Assistance Program for Healthcare jobs, Deaf and Blind Services, Day Habilitation Center for those with special needs, Residential Group Homes for children and adults with special needs, Substance Abuse Treatment, Housing for seniors and those with a disability, Homeless Veterans Help | Houston and surrounding areas | M-F 8a - 5p |
| Housing Authority of City of HoustonWeb | 2640 Fountain View Dr | 713.260.0600 | Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing | M-F 8a-5p *By appointment. | |
| Humble Area Ministries Web | 1302 First Street | 281.446.3663 | Food, rent, utilities, Employment services, Clothing, Prescription Assistance, Birth Certificate and ID Assistance, Assistance with Eyeglasses | 77336, 77345, 77347, 77372, 77338, 77346, 77357, 77396, 77339, 77347, 77365, 77532, | 7 days a week/24 hours a day answering machine, leave message |
| Interfaith Caring Ministries Web | 151 Park Ave, League City | 281.332.3881 | Rent, utilities, minor home repair, and food for seniors (55+) | Clear Creek ISD, Friendswood ISD, Clear Lake, Webster, 77034, 77058, 77059, 77062, 77089, 77546, 77565, 77573, 77586, 77598 | M-F 830a-430p *by appointment |
| Immaculate Conception Catholic ChurchWeb | 7250 Harrisburgh | 713.921.1261 | Food | 77011, 77012 | Thurs 930a - 1130m |
| Katy Christian Social Ministries Web | 5011 East 5th St Katy, TX | 281.391.9623 | Rent, mortgage, utilities, food, clothing | 77084, 77094, 77406, 77423, 77441, 77449, 77450, 77464, 77476, 77485, 77493, 77494 | M-Th 830a-12p 1230p -5p |
| Larkin Community Center Web | 5410 Larkin | 713.869.9143 | Rent and Utility assistance to seniors and families with children | M - F 8am to 5pm | |
| LINC Houston Community Services Web | 1504 Johnson Street | 713.426.2451 | Food, Prescriptions, Eye glasses, Rent, Security Deposit, Clothes, CHIP, Medicaid, Gold Card, Home Repair | Mon, Wed, Fri: 9 to 3pm | |
| Lone Star Legal Aid Web | 1415 Fannin | 713.652.0077 or 713.652.5911 | Legal services to low income individuals | Harris, Ft Bend and Montgomery County | M-F 830a - 1230p |
| MANNA - Ministry Assistance of the Near Northwest Allicance Web | 1806 W. 43rd Street | 346.335.2950 or 713.682.7556 | Utility, Gas, Rent, Clothing, Food, Assistance with SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, CHIP, | 77007, 77008, 77009, 77018, 77022, 77037, 77040, 77076, 77088, 77091, 77092, | M: 8 to 11, Tues and Thurs: 915 to 1115am. |
| Memorial Area MinistriesWeb | 1625 Blalock | English 713.574.7533 Spanish 713.574.7536 | Rent, water, gas, medical assistance, prescriptions, transportation, clothing, Rapid Re-Housing, | 77008, 77009, 77018, 77022, 77024, 77037, 77039, 77040, 77041, 77043, 77055, 77076, 77079, 77080, 77088, 77091, 77092, | M-F 9a - 4p. Call between 9a - 12p M-F to set up an appointment. |
| My Brother's Keeper Outreach Center Web | 12713 A Bissonnet | 281.489.9933 | Financial Assistance, Rent, Utilities, Food Pantry, | ||
| Mayors Office for People with Disabilities Web | 1475 West Gray | 832.394.0814 mopdmail@houstontx.gov | Advocacy Services | City of Houston | M-F 8a - 5p |
| North Channel Assistance MiWeb nistries | 13837 Bonham | 713.453.8028 | Food, food stamp application help, Medicaid application help, clothing, | 77013, 77015, 77029, 77044, 77049, 77078, 77530, | M-F 8a-2p |
| Northwest Assistance Ministries Web | 15555 Kuykendahl | 281.583.5600 | Rent, mortgage, gas, water, prescriptions, gas vouchers, dental and medical, | 77014, 77032, 77038, 77050, 77060, 77064, 77066, 77067, 77068, 77069, 77070, 77073, 77086, 77090, 77373, 77379, 77388, 77389, | Tues 1p-4p Call for an appointment. |
| Operation ID Web | 5100 Travis Street | 713.620.6476 | Texas Identification Card | Harris County | Tues & Thurs 9a-1130a. You will need a referral/voucher from an agency that Operation ID partners with. |
| Pasadena Community MinistriesWeb | 2301 South Houston | 713.477.4336 | Rent, utilities, food, clothing, | Pasadena, Deer Park, | Tues 9a - 12p. Th 1p-4p |
| Riceville Baptist ChurchWeb | 11231 Gessner | 713.774.4880 | Food, clothing, financial assistance, prison ministry | 1st Wed of Month, 6p. Call for appointments. | |
| Salvation ArmyWeb | 1500 Austin Street | 713.752.0677 | Rent, Food, Clothing, Utilities (water only), Senior Housing (62+) | Harris County | M-Th 830a - 430p |
| Saras HouseWeb | 711 Perla | 713.475.1480 | Shelter, meals, clothing (women & children) | Pasadena | |
| Baker Ripley Web | 3838 Aberdeen Way 77025 | 713-590-2327 | Case management, care giver support, dementia adult day program, utilities, must be under 150% FPL, preferences to elderly, disabled, clients w children under 5 yrs, no deposits or reconnection fees, | 77016, 77020, 77026, 77028, 77004, 77021, 77033, 77051, 77087, 77003, 77011, 77012, 77020, 77023, 77034, 77058, 77059, 77062, 77075, 77089, 77502, 77504, 77506, 77571, 77598, | Call for appointment |
| Senior Jobs Program (AARP)Web | 12727 Featherwood Dr | 281.922.9952 | Jobs, | Harris County | M-F 930a - 230p |
| Spring-Woodlands Ministries Web | 810 E. Louetta Suite A-E | 281.353.4480 | Food, clothing | 77373, 77338, 77389, 77379, 77380, 77381, 77382, 77386, 77388, | M 1p-3p, W 9a-1130a, Thur 1p-3p |
| Society of St. Stephen Web | 1062 Fairmont Parkway | 281.487.1774 | Rent, utilities, food, | 77502, 77503, 77505, 77506, 77507 | T-F New clients: 10a-1p |
| Society of St Vincent de PaulWeb | 2403 Holcombe Blvd | 713.741.8234 ext 101 | Food, Clothing, Rent, Utility | City of Houston Zip Codes Only | M -F 9am - 5pm |
| Southeast Area Ministries SEAMWeb | 2102 Houston Blvd | 713.944.0093 | Rent, Utilities, Food, Clothing, Ongoing Senior assistance, Christmas assistance program, Prescription, Medical Supply assistance | SE: 77017, 77034, 77061, 77075, 77087, 77089, 77504, 77587, | M-Th 10am - 1:30pm |
| St Bernadette Church Web | 15500 El Camino Real | 281.486.0337 | Food, Clothes, Rent, Utilities, | Clear Lake: 77058, 77059, 77062, 77598, | Tues: 930 to 1130am Thurs: 930 to 1130 Wed: Appt only |
| St. Cecilia ChurchWeb | 11720 Joan of Arc Drive | 713.468.1185 | Rent, Utilities, Food, | NW: 77024, 77043, 77055 | M-Th: 9am through 12pm |
| St Christopher Catholic ChurchWeb | 8150 Park Place | 713.645.6614 | Food | SE: 77012, 77017, 77061, | Sat: 930 to 11am |
| St. Hyacinth Catholic Church Web | 2921 Center St, Deer Park | 281.479.4298 | Rent, Utilities, Food | Deer Park: 77536 | M - F: 930 to 12pm 1pm to 430pm |
| St. John Vianney Social Services Web | 625 Nottingham Oaks | 281.497.4434 | Utilities, Food, Clothing, | W: 77043, 77055 (Food & Clothing only) 77077, 77079 (Food, Clothing, Utilities ) | M-F: 830 to 530pm |
| St. Joseph Catholic ChurchWeb | 1505 Kane Street | 713.222.8903 | Rent, Utilities, Food, | 77007, 77008, 77009, | M-T: 9am to 12pm 130 to 330pm |
| St Mary Magdalene Church | 527 South Houston Ave, Humble | 281.540.1907 | Rent, Utilities, Food, | NE: 77338, East of Lee Rd, 77346, (Only apartment complexes) | M, W, F only. 930 to 1145am - 1st 12 people. |
| St Pious Catholic Church Web | 824 Main - Pasadena | 713.473.9484 | Food, Rent, Utilities, Immigrant Legal Assistance, Free Health Screenings, | Pasadena: 77501, 77507, 77536, 77547, 77587, | Tues & Thurs: 10am to 1230pm |
| Target Hunger Service CenterWeb | 2814 Quitman | 713.226.4953 | Emergency Food, Food Pantries, Monthly Food Fairs, Senior Home Delivery Program, Senior Day Site Program | 77015, 77016, 77020, 77026, 77028, 77078, | M-F: 9am to 5pm |
| The Bridge Over Troubled WatersWeb | 3811 Allen-Genoa Rd | 713.473.2801 | Emergency Shelter for Domestic Abuse Victims | Harris County | |
| The House of AmosWeb | 8030 Boone Rd | 281.495.9061 | Food, Citizenship Classes, Lunches every Saturday, Free immunizations to uninsured children. | M-Th: 9am to 12pm Sat: 10am to 12pm | |
| Tomball Emergency Assistance Ministries (TEAM) Web | 300 W Main Street Tomball, TX 77375 | 281.351.6700 | Utilities, Gas vouchers, Clothing, Food, Medical and Dental vouchers, Temporary Shelter | Tomball zip codes 77375, 77377 or you live within Tomball school district. | Tues and Thurs: 10am to 1pm. Application must be completed in person. |
| The Houston Food Bank Web | 535 Portwall | 832.369.9390 | Emergency Food Pantry, Help applying for SNAP, TANF, CHIP, Medicaid | M-F: 8am to 5pm Sat: Telephone hotline only 8am to 4pm | |
| United Way Web | 211 | Referrals for Food, Shelter, Rent, Utilities, Housing, Shelters, Substance Abuse | Harris County | ||
| Wesley Community CenterWeb | 1410 Lee Street | 713.223.8131 ext 245 | Rent, Utilities, Food, Financial Education, Employment coaching, Help applying for Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, | Harris County | Friday Starts at 8am. Appointments Only. No appointment needed for Food. |
| West Houston Assistance MinistriesWeb | 10501 Meadowglen Lane | 713.977.9942 | Mortgage, Food, Utilities, Clothing, Employment Assistance, Bus Passes for job related trips, Work Clothes, | 77042, 77057, 77063, 77072, 77077, 77082, | M - F: 10am - 1pm |
| Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Web | 3826 Wheeler | 713.747.7101 | Rent, Mortgage, Utilities, Food, Women's Housing (Badge Bush). Visit there site they help in plenty of ways. | SE: 77770 | M-Th: 9 - 1230pm F: 9-1130am *Appointment only |
| Windsor Village Social ServicesWeb | 12041 1/2 Post Oak Rd | 713.551.8792 | Rent, Mortgage, Utilities, Food, | Harris County and Ft Bend County | Appointment only Monday 8am to 11am Food: T-W 9am to 11am. Th 1030am to 1230pm |
| Pearland Neighborhood CenterWeb | 2335 N Texas Ave, Pearland, TX 77581 | 281-485-1987, info@pnctexas.com | Rent, Utilities, Gas, Food and Baby Pantry, Bread Pantry, Santa's Helpers Program, School Supply Vouchers, Emergency Assistance, Finanical Stability Course, GED Scholarships, Disaster Relief | Brazoria County | M - F 8 to 5 |
| East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry WWebeb | 435 Stafford Run Road Stafford, Texas 77477-5639 | 281 261-1006 | Food, rent, utilities, resale shop, Christmas and Thanksgiving Meals, Backpacks for kids, | East Fort Bend - 77053, 77459, 77477, 77478, 77479, 77489, 77545, 77583 | 281 261-1006 |
| Epiphany Community Health Outreach Services (ECHOS) WWebeb | 9600 S. Gessner, Bldg. E Houston, Texas 77071 | 713 270-0369 | Gold Card, Medcaid, SNAP, Food, ESL, Computer Literacy, Voter Registration, Child Immunizations, Vision Screening, Domestic Abuse Counseling and support groups, | Serves Greater Houston | 713 270-0369 |
| Emergency Aid Coalition (EAC) WWebeb | 5401 Fannin Street Houston, Texas 77004-6808 | (713) 522-5903 | Food Pantry + Clothing (M-F 8:30am), Lunch Program (M - F + Sunday 11 am & 1pm, Backpacks (register in March) | Serves Greater Houston | (713) 522-5903 |
| Interfaith of the Woodlands WebWeb | 4242 Interfaith Way The Woodlands, Texas 77381 | (832) 615-8219 | Rent, mortgage, utilities, prescription drugs, food, clothing, emergency shelter, Christmas gifts for kids, primary care, dental, womens health, senior transportation, senior grocery delivery, | Woodlands - 77375, 77380, 77381, 77382, 77384, 77385, 77386, 77389, | (832) 615-8219 |
| My Brother's Keeper Outreach Center (not COH Program) WWebeb | 12713A Bissonnet Houston, TX 77099 | (281) 498-9933 | Rent, utilities, Food, School supplies, Thanksgiving / Christmas Meal Program, Christmas gifts for kids, Easter baskets, | 77031, 77035, 77036, 77042, 77056, 77071, 77072, 77074, 77081, 77082, 77083, 77085, 77096, 77099, 77401, 77477, 77478, | (281) 498-9933 |
| St. Vincent's House - Galveston Web | 2-2817 Alfreda Houston Place Galveston, Texas 77550 | (409) 763-8521 | Vision + Dental clinic, Mental Health Counseling, Speech, Physical Occupational Therapy, Rent, Utilities, Case Management, Transportation, | Galveston - 77591, 77568, 77590, 77563, 77554, 77551, 77550, 77555, 77552, 77553, | (409) 763-8521 |
| Hero Houston WWebeb | 12335 Kingsride, Box 230, Houston, TX 77024 | (713) 932-3996 | Offers services to seniors in the Memorial and Spring Branch area. Transportation to medical appointments, light handyman work, help filling out documents and senior service referrals. | Memorial and Spring Branch area. 77024 77043 77055 77079 77080 | Monday - Friday 8 to 5 |
| Public Utility commission of Texas (PUC) Web | 888.782.8477 or 512.936.7500 | Will not turn of utilities or electricity if you have a need for medical equipment or you are on life support | |||
| COVID-19 Electricity Relief Program web | 866.454.8387 or 888.782.8477 | The Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Program (CERP) helps consumers who are having trouble paying bills due to job loss or other related hardship. | Who is eligible for the Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Plan? Residential customers that qualify for unemployment or that are low income qualify for the Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Plan. Once approved for the Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Program, you will remain on the program for up to six months. During that time, your electricity provider cannot disconnect your electricity for non-payment. | ||
| Fort Bend County WWeb eb | 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469 | 281.238.2273 or 281.633.7795 | Rent and utility assistance | Serves Fort Bend County and zip codes:77406, 77417, 77420, 77430, 77435, 77441, 77444, 77451, 77459, 77461, 77464 77469, 77471, 77476 77478, 77477, 77479 77481, 77485, 77489, 77496, 77494, 77407, 77498, 77545 | Open normal business hours 8 to 5 pm |
Even if you do not see organizations in your zip code that specifically help with prescriptions, contact those numbers anyway to double-check.
17. Churches Or Assistance Ministries
A similar option to non-profits is contacting your church. Especially if there is a large congregation.
The bigger churches typically have assistance ministries where funds are set aside to help those in the congregation. This could be a potential source of prescription assistance for you.
Even if your church does not have an assistance ministries program, consider talking with your pastor or members of the church. Aside from family and friends a church has the least “red tape” of any option on this list. There is limited paperwork or waiting if funds are available for you.
Salvation and inner peace are a few reasons to join a church but if you need a more practical/tangible reason to join consider the network that you will have access to. The bigger your network the more options you have to solve life’s problems. This is especially important if you have medical and financial issues with little family support.
Patient Assistance Programs
Here you will find non-profits that help out the U.S. with prescription assistance.
18. HealthWell Foundation
The HealthWell Foundation is a non-profit that helps patients pay medical costs like prescription assistance, copays, premiums, deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses.
Prior to contacting HealthWell Foundation for help with prescriptions they encourage you to contact the manufacturer of your medication. The reason is many of these companies offer prescription assistance that can help you pay for medications.
HealthWell Foundation also has a helpful Resource List that provides helpful links to organizations that can help you save money on medications. For example, they have a list of “Copayment Assistance Organizations” that help with Cancer, Leukemia, patient advocacy and more.
For help paying for prescriptions you can call HealthWell Foundation at 800.675.8416 or visit their website.
19. Medicare Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs
Another way to find prescription assistance is by going straight to the pharmaceutical company.
Some of these companies offer financial help to make their medications more affordable. To find these companies you need to visit the Medicare website’s page regarding the Pharmaceutical Assistance Program.
Note: The Medicare website has a listing of companies that help with prescription assistance, however, you do not necessarily need Medicare to receive help.
Once you are there you’ll need to select the first letter of the medication you are looking for.
Next, you’ll find your drug on the list and click the word Details to the right.
From here you will see information about the name of the drug, the company who makes it, eligibility for prescription assistance and contact information. Carefully read the eligibility criteria (typically income limits, diagnosed with a certain disease, etc) for the pharmaceutical assistance program and if you feel you qualify to use the contact information to follow up with the company.
Each pharmaceutical company is different, but according to WebMD these are the typical requirements to apply for prescription assistance:
- You mail in the application
- Provide details about your income (in many cases you must be low-income)
- Your doctor verifies that you take that medication
Again the first step to getting help paying for medications from a pharmaceutical assistance program is visiting the Medicare website and searching for a program that covers your specific medication.
20. Medicine Assistance Tool
The Medicine Assistance Tool is a search engine that helps you find patient assistance programs.
The way it works is you enter your medication, name, state, household income and other pieces of information. The Medicine Assistance Tool will then search to see if there is a patient assistance program available for you.
Another thing that is great about this site is the information it provides you about a number of topics like:
- Health Insurance Resources – Articles with tips on choosing the right plan.
- Cost of Prescription Medicines – This section provides links to various pharmaceutical manufacturers websites that provide an estimate of what your prescriptions could cost.
- Medicare Coverage for Prescriptions – Here you will find links to help you better understand Medicare.
For more information about Medicine Assistance Tool visit their website or contact them here.
Conclusion
There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to prescription assistance. Everyone’s situation is different.
Some people are uninsured. Some aren’t quite old enough for Medicare. Others have Medicare, but their insurance plan is lousy.
What works for your neighbor might not necessarily work for you which is why you have to continue to do your research and ask questions.
Your local Area Agency on Aging is a good place to take your healthcare-related questions.
If AAA can’t help consider talking to a financial advisor to see if they can help you free up money in other places.
This article details the many ways that advisors can help you save on healthcare. Some financial advisors even staff individuals who are Medicare experts and can help you pick cost-effective plans.
Again everyone’s situation is different which is why the research you are doing right now is key.
Nick Bryant is the author of Understanding Healthcare Is Half The Battle and a Senior Counselor with 13+ years of experience working in community health and mental health. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching WWE on Friday nights, and working toward a Google Data Analytics certification. If you have additional questions about community resources or government assistance programs, simply leave a comment below and he will follow up as soon as possible.
