ACO Application for Collin County Residents
We will review your application and documents. We will contact you within 3-5 business days regarding your application.
Please be aware that once all the correct documents have been submitted, you will be sent an email with a link to set up a meeting with a Case Director. At the time of the meeting, the Case Director will determine the type and amount of financial assistance we will be able to assist with, if found eligible.
It is important to note that financial assistance is not always guaranteed. However, you may be offered other types of non-financial assistance or resources instead.
All Community Outreach is currently focusing on assisting with utilities during this time of higher than usual utility costs to ensure the health and well-being for those in their homes, in addition to our services to fight hunger, provide household essential items, and offer programs for education and employment.
ACO Immediate Needs
Food Support
Drive-thru Food Pantry
The Food Pantry provides groceries for Collin County individuals and families in need. All clients must submit an application first to receive a QR code that is required for all visits at the food pantry. Collin County families can come to ACO’s 801 E Main Street drive-thru on:
- Tuesdays 9AM – 11AM and 5PM – 7PM
- Thursdays 9AM – 11AM
- Saturdays 9AM – 11AM
Emergency Food
Sometimes the need for food is NOW. For those extreme situations ACO’s 801 E. Main Street location stocks a limited number of basic food supplies in our main office. If you are in need of emergency food, call ACO’s office at 972-727-9131.
Cares Center
Hours
Tuesday:
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday:
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The ACO Cares Center provides a place for families to shop for clothing, household necessities, small appliances and personal hygiene products. A large variety of clothing and items are available, all in top condition, in stylish options for all ages and needs. Located at 801 E Main St, Allen 75002.
Housing Assistance
Rent assistance is available for Collin County residents who qualify. If you need emergency shelter, please see crisis resources.
Utility Assistance
Utility assistance is available for Collin County residents who qualify. Assistance may be available for non-Collin County residents that have CoServ.
Health-Related Assistance
ACO provides financial assistance for medical sick visits, prescriptions, lab work, X-Rays, and immunization for Collin County individuals who qualify.
CAREER SERVICES
The number one reason many of our neighbors need ACO services is unemployment and underemployment. ACO has a staff of professionals who can help you define your skills, detail your experience, revise your resume, and prepare for interviews, etc. The Employment Services are available for Collin County residents 18 years or older.
EDUCATION SERVICES
GED Assistance
ACO provides Collin County residents that have not obtained a high school diploma an opportunity to receive the following:
- Online study prep courses
- Computer lab space
- Academic Support
- GED Testing Fee Support
Requirements- Cannot be enrolled in a public, private, home, online or charter high school. If 17 years old or younger, you need Texas Education Agency approval to enroll in a GED preparatory class
Financial Coaching Services
ACO provides financial coaching to help you become more financially stable. Here are a few of the tools offered:
- Develop income and expense budgets that align with your goals and income level
- Improve your Credit Scores and credit building
- Strategies to paydown and off debt
- Develop savings plans
- Assist with making informed financial decisions
Special ACO Programs
Kids Summer Food
Our Food Pantry also offers families with children enrolled in school and participating in the free or reduced lunch program summer food assistance through our Kids Summer Food program for as long as supplies last. All school aged residents of Collin County can participate in our Kids Summer Food program. Distribution is during the summer months.
Holiday Food
Holiday Food assistance is available for families who are unable to provide a holiday meal, for as long as supplies last. All Collin County can participate in our Holiday Food program. Distribution is during the holiday season.
Fill the Bus (School Supplies)
Fill the Bus provides students enrolled in Collin County ISD schools from PreK-8th grade with new backpacks and school supplies.
North Pole Toy Distribution
North Pole Toy Distribution provides toys and gifts for Collin County children ages 0 to 16. The event is hosted each Holiday Season.
Please return to the top of this page to complete the Online ACO application.