To apply for assistance, click the button to Complete Application. Read the instructions carefully. Once complete, make sure to click on the submit button. Once submitted you will receive a confirmation email that the application was successfully received. Check your email, as well as your spam or junk folder, as our emails sometimes go there.
Once all the correct documentation has been received, within 3 to 5 business days you will receive an email with a link to schedule a meeting with a Case Director. During your meeting, the Case Director will assess your eligibility and determine the type and amount of financial assistance we may be able to provide.
While financial assistance is NOT guaranteed, you may be offered other types of non-financial support.
Our food pantry supports individuals and families in need across Collin County. To receive free Food Pantry services, please complete the application. If approved, you will receive an email for instructions on scheduling an appointment to shop at our Choice Food Pantry.
Food Pantry visits are by appointment only, and clients may shop once per month.
801 E Main St, Suite C
Allen, TX 75002
Appointment Times:
Tues. & Thurs. (Choice Shopping) 9:00am – 6:00pm
Fridays (Curbside Pickup) 12:00pm – 2:00pm
For immediate situations, we have a supply of basic food items available through our main office. If you need emergency food assistance, please contact ACO at 972-727-9131 or come to the main office during business hours.
The ACO Cares Center is a client-based store that supports eligible individuals and families by providing clothing, household essentials, small appliances, personal hygiene, and cleaning products. To receive Cares Center services, please complete the application. Once reviewed, you will receive an email for instructions on scheduling an appointment with a Case Director, who will determine eligibility and provide details on scheduling an appointment.
Cares Center visits are by appointment only, and clients may shop once per month.
801 E Main St, Suite A
Allen, TX 75002
Appointment Times:
Tuesdays 9:00am – 6:00pm
Thursdays 9:00am – 1:00pm
Rental assistance may be available for Collin County residents who qualify when funding is available. Shelter assistance is not available. If you need emergency shelter, please see our Local Resources list.
Utility Assistance may be available for Collin County residents who qualify.
Many of our neighbors rely on ACO services due to unemployment or under employment. Our team of experienced professionals offer career coaching. We can help you identify your strengths to showcase your experience, update your resume, and prepare for interviews. We also partner with local companies to provide a list of available job openings. Employment services are available to Collin County residents aged 18 and older.
ACO provides Collin County Residents that have not obtained a high school diploma with an opportunity to receive the following:
Requirements: Cannot be enrolled in an accredited high school. If 17 years old or younger, you must have parent/guardian or court consent approved through Texas Education Agency. For more information regarding GED education contact Michael Donohue at mdonohue@acocares.org
ACO offers financial guidance to help you achieve financial stability. Here are some of the tools and resources we provide:
Our Kiser-Covington Learning Academy offers workshops and classes to support your personal and professional development. Our programs cover a range of topics, including financial literacy, career development, and wellness. We also offer 8-week computer classes to help you strengthen your digital skills, including Microsoft Certification classes.
For information on upcoming workshops and class schedules, please call our office. Whether you’re looking to improve your finances, explore job opportunities, or focus on wellness, our Learning Academy is here to help you grow and succeed in a supportive learning environment!
ACO Food Pantry also offers Collin County families with children summer food assistance through our Kids Summer Food program for as long as supplies last.
Fill the Bus provides students enrolled in Collin County ISD schools from PreK-8th grade with new backpacks and school supplies.
Holiday Food assistance is available for Collin County families who are unable to provide a holiday meal.
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.