Referral
Partner
Program (RPP)
What is the Referral Partner Program?
The Referral Partner Program (RPP) is a free, year-long program that informs Houston Food Bank neighbors about community resources to help meet their needs. Common referrals include utility assistance, clinics, food pantries, and more.
After you are referred to and enrolled in a program, you will receive quarterly follow ups from our Referral Specialists for one year. During this time, Referral Specialists can also connect you with additional resources or state benefit application assistance. The Referral Partner Program does not have funding available to provide direct services.
Where to access Referral Partner Services?
Referral Specialists can help you apply for Baker Ripley’s utility assistance and Harris Health’s Gold Card program at these agencies. Referral specialists cannot determine eligibility or benefits for these programs.
Houston Food Bank – Portwall
535 Portwall, Houston, TX 77029
Monday-Thursday 8:00am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-12:00pm
An appointment is not required to get services at this agency.
Southwest Multi-Service Center
6400 High Star Dr, Houston, TX 77074
Every 1st-4th Wednesday of the month
8:00am–3:00pm
Clients are seen in the order they sign up. A sign-up sheet is available on-site the day of service.
To be best prepared for the application, we recommend you bring the following documents:
Baker Ripley:
Bring proof of the following:
- Identity
- Citizenship [if applicable]
- Income for the past 30 days
- The most recent light or gas bill
Gold Card:
Bring proof of the following:
- Identity
- Marriage [if applicable]
- Income for the past 30 days
- Address
- Dependent children [birth certificate]
- Immigration status [if applicable]
- Any healthcare coverage in the household
What Can Referral Specialists Do?
Referrals
Referral Specialists can locate and provide information on resources in your area. These include but are not limited to:
- Rent
- Temporary shelter
- Utilities
- Home modifications
- Furniture
- Food pantries
- Clothing
- Baby items
- Senior services
- Legal aid
- Medical care
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Mental health
- Holiday events [toy drives, holiday meals]
- Resume building
- Interview attire
- Interview preparation
- Crisis lines
Application Assistance
Baker Ripley: Baker Ripley’s Utility Assistance Program offers utility payment assistance for light and gas. To qualify, you must reside in Harris, Galveston, or Brazoria counties and meet income guidelines.
Gold Card: The Harris County Financial Assistance Program offers discounted health care services. To qualify, you must reside in Harris County and meet income guidelines.
If you live outside of these counties, we can locate alternative programs for you. Referral specialists cannot determine eligibility or benefits for these programs.
What is the Referral Partner Program Process?
To connect with us, please email cap.resource@houstonfoodbank.org or call 832-369-9390 with your name, phone number, ZIP code, and need.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.