Austin Nonprofits Distribute RISE Funding to Help with Rent, Food

Tens of thousands of Central Texans have lost their jobs in the month since the coronavirus public health crisis began, according to statistics from Workforce Solutions Capital Area, putting many in a position to ask for help for the first time.

That can leave families in an unfamiliar and stressful position, said Sara Ramirez, executive director of Catholic Charities of Central Texas.

“It’s a very scary time, and it’s hard for families to take that first step,” Ramirez said.

To help reach families who either have already sought services in the past or who are reaching out for assistance for the first time, the city of Austin announced it has selected four different organizations to distribute funds in order to help struggling families cover their basic needs.

Catholic Charities of Central Texas will distribute $1.6 million in this first phase of funding. Asian Family Support Services will distribute $1 million in funding. El Buen Samaritano and Austin Area Urban League (Austin, TX) will each distribute $500,000.

Recipients of RISE funding must meet certain requirements to be eligible, including an income level at or below 200% of the poverty line, significant hardship experienced from the coronavirus and ineligibility for assistance from the federal stimulus package passed by U.S. Congress in March.

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