Answers to Go
SAN MARCOS PUBLIC LIBRARY 625 E. Hopkins St. 512-393-8200
Q. What local resources are available to people who need financial assistance due to COVID-19?
A. There are several local organizations available that help with bills, food, and applying for jobs. Community Action Inc. helps qualified families in Hays, Caldwell and Blanco counties with their electric, butane, propane and natural gas bills. Their services include energy education, needs assessment, budget counseling, utility payment assistance and crisis-related purchase of portable heating and cooling units when available. For more information about financial assistance, call Community Action, Inc. at 512-392-1161 or visit communityaction.com/ utility.
The City of San Marcos’ Utility Billing Department is also helping our community navigate these challenging financial times. Utility assistance is available to residents affected by any COVID-19 related income loss or for other regular utility financial assistance not related to the pandemic. To discuss City of San Marcos utility payment options, contact the Utility Billing Department at 512- 393-8383 or email utility_ billing@sanmarcostx.gov.
The St. Vincent de Paul Society through Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church assists with rent, utilities and other expenses. Call 512-415-4012 and leave your name, address, and phone number. Someone will contact you to assess your need and eligibility.
Southside Community Center has a Specific Assistance Program to help those in need with either their rent or utilities. For more information or to apply call 512-392-6694 or visit southsidecommunitycenter. org.
Southside Community Center also serves a healthy dinner every night at 5 p.m. to anybody needing a meal. They are located at 518 S. Guadalupe St. in San Marcos.
The Hays County Food Bank provides groceries to low-income households, as well as to those experiencing a temporary food emergency such as a loss of job, loss of sole provider, disaster, etc. Call 512-393-8300 or visit haysfoodbank.org for income qualifications, as well as food distribution schedule and locations.
Heaven’s Harvest at the Holland Street Church of Christ (205 E. Holland St.) provides fresh produce and vegetables, protein items in meat, beans, peanut butter, and bread items. They are open to the community on Sundays from 5 - 6:30 p.m. Families need to signin in the Fellowship Hall to receive food. There are no qualifications necessary to receive food and no paperwork is required.
The San Marcos Public Library helps with applying for jobs and writing resumes and cover letters. Visit our Facebook group for job postings and workforce related content (facebook.com/groups/ SMPLJobsandResources) or email our Workforce Librarian Deborah Carter at DCarter@sanmarcostx. gov for assistance with your resume or cover letter.
