HandUp Program

Get the support you need to overcome financial challenges and create a stable future for your family.

You Don't Have to Live Paycheck to Paycheck

We understand that despite working hard every day, unexpected financial challenges, such as medical emergencies, vehicle repairs, or rising costs of living, can put your family's stability at risk. When you're living paycheck to paycheck, these setbacks can feel overwhelming. But you're not alone. The HandUp Program is here to help you regain control and create the stable home and secure the future your children deserve.

Become Financially Stable Through Our Holistic Program

50% Income Increase
Program graduates have seen an average 50% increase in household income over the past five years.
3 Years of Support
Access to our LevelUp Program ensures your family maintains stability long after program completion.
100% Success Rate
Every family that completes our program achieves stable housing and financial independence.

HandUp Program Qualifications

Pre-qualifying eligibility for the HandUp Program:
  • Be struggling to pay rent and/or utilities
  • Have one parent in the household physically and legally able to work
  • Not have alcohol/drug dependency or issues with domestic violence
  • Be the legal guardian of one or more children under the age of 18 (or still enrolled in high school if over 18)
  • Agree to participate in self-sufficiency programming
Apply Today

Our 9-Month Journey Together

Every family's path is unique, but our proven framework guides you through three key phases. With your dedicated Case Manager by your side, here's how our journey together unfolds:
Phase 1: Stabilization
Resources to stabilize families and increase their income
Months 1-3
  • Stabilize Housing - 1st month rent/mortgage paid in full
  • 2nd and 3rd month's rent partially subsidized
  • Individual service plan, needs & mental health assessment
  • Self-sufficiency matrix, stipend toward utilities
  • Monthly budget meetings, access to services
  • Support groups access
Phase 2: Coaching
Assisting families in developing new habits that promote stability
Months 4-6
  • 4th, 5th, & 6th month's rent partially subsidized
  • Monthly budgeting meetings
  • Individual/family counseling, support groups, skill building, career planning
  • Support groups access
Phase 3: Launching
Launching families to self-sufficiency and transition to LevelUp Program
Months 7-9
  • 7th & 8th month's rent partially subsidized
  • Open Savings Account
  • Get family photos or headshots taken
  • Transition to LevelUp Graduate Program
  • Support groups access
You will receive a continuum of care throughout the 9 months. This means access to support groups like "Building Confident Families" series, "Anxiety 101" series, book club, peer support classes, resume & job search support, family & children's enrichment events.

What this Self-Sufficiency Program Includes

The HandUp Program offers a complete support system for your family's journey to stability. Through rental assistance, financial coaching, and career development, you'll receive both immediate help and long-term solutions. Our program includes:
Monthly rental assistance to stabilize your housing
One-on-one financial coaching and budgeting support
Career guidance and job search assistance
Mental health counseling and wellness services
Peer support groups with other families
Access to community resources and partnerships
Two years of support through the LevelUp Program
Regular check-ins with your Case Manager

Getting Started is Simple. The Program Takes Work.

Step 1
Online Request for Service
Complete a quick assessment to confirm your eligibility and begin your journey toward financial stability. It takes a few minutes to start building a better future.
Step 2
Admissions Eligibility Notification
Applicants notified via email if they meet eligibility requirements, selected applicants will advance to an admissions interview.
Step 3
Admissions Interview Process
Meet our team to discuss your unique situation and goals to determine if we are a good fit for each other.
Step 4
Review Board Assessment
All applicant interviews are assessed by the review board to determine final admissions to our HandUp Program.
Step 5
HandUp Program Member Enrollment
Selected applicants become HandUp Program Members and receive financial support while mastering budgeting, career skills, and emotional wellness through personalized coaching and peer support.
Step 6
LevelUp Program Enrollment
Automatically enrolled in RaiseUp Families’ two-year LevelUp Graduate Program to continue working towards your goals with the support of our team.
Apply Today

Testimonials

  • "We were in a dire situation, facing eviction and utility disconnections when we first sought support from RaiseUp Families...The most significant lessons we gained were about budgeting and saving, skills that have empowered us to plan for the future and build financial security. Before, we lived in constant fear of the next bill or emergency, but now, we have savings accounts and the confidence that comes with preparedness. RaiseUp Families didn’t just help us in the short term; it gave us the tools to thrive in the long term."

    Betty B.
    HandUp Program Graduate

  • "Through the program, I gained invaluable insights into managing my finances and learned how to prioritize essential expenses. More importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to create a secure future for my family. The stability RaiseUp Families provided was a turning point for us. For the first time in a long time, my children felt secure, and we could focus on rebuilding our lives without the constant fear of losing our home.

    During my time in the program, I regained control of my finances, set up a budget, and created a plan for long-term housing stability, which has given me peace of mind."

    Rosalyn T.
    HandUp Program Graduate

  • "This program has positively impacted my family, helping me save without overworking myself and sacrificing time with my loved ones. The family events hosted by RaiseUp Families have been a blessing, creating lasting memories for all of us. I’ve also benefited from the valuable resources provided, including support groups and classes, which reminded me that I’m not alone in this journey.

    One of my proudest achievements is reaching my savings goals."

    Shontel G.
    HandUp Program Graduate

Ready to Build a Better Future for Your Children?

You don't have to face this alone. For those ready to take the next step, the HandUp Program promises this: If you commit to this journey, it can change the course of your life and the lives of your children. This isn’t a handout—it’s a hand up, and it works.

You can also explore our resources page for a collection of tools and articles for support.

Become a Monthly Partner in Family Stability

Join FamiliesFirst, our monthly giving program, and become a steady foundation for Houston families working to break free from financial instability. Your consistent support enables RaiseUp Families to provide the critical resources parents need through our HandUp and LevelUp Programs - from emergency rental assistance to financial coaching - ensuring children can focus on their education rather than worry about housing security. By becoming a monthly donor, you help create lasting change for families today while building a stronger, more resilient Houston for tomorrow.
Join FamiliesFirst as a Monthly Donor
Helping parents achieve self-sufficiency so they can lead their kids to a brighter future!
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