Waco Community Resources and Assistance

Welcome to the One Way Community Church Resource Page. We believe that 'loving your neighbor' starts with meeting people exactly where they are—especially during life's tougher seasons. Whether you are looking for a hot meal, a safe place to sleep, or a hand with the monthly bills, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. We’ve gathered this directory of trusted Waco-area partners to help connect you with the support you need. Our prayer is that these resources provide more than just practical help; we hope they offer a sense of stability and a reminder that your community is standing with you.

First Step: Dial 2-1-1
If you are in a crisis and don’t know where to start, dial 2-1-1 or (877) 541-7905. This is a free, 24/7 service that connects you with local resources for health and human services.

Food Assistance

  • Caritas of Waco
    • Address: 300 S. 15th St.
    • Phone: (254) 753-4593
    • Services: Emergency food pantry providing groceries to individuals and families.
  • Shepherd’s Heart
    • Address: 1401 N. 34th St.
    • Phone: (254) 722-9517
    • Services: Food pantry and mobile food truck distributions throughout Waco.
  • The Salvation Army Community Kitchen
    • Address: 4721 W. Waco Dr.
    • Phone: (254) 756-7271
    • Services: Daily hot meals and an on-site food pantry.
  • Mission Waco (The Hangar)
    • Address: 1315 N. 15th St.
    • Phone: (254) 753-4900
    • Services: Emergency food vouchers and grocery assistance.

Housing & Emergency Shelter

  • The Salvation Army Shelter
    • Address: 4721 W. Waco Dr.
    • Phone: (254) 756-7271
    • Services: Emergency shelter for men, women, and families.
  • My Brother’s Keeper (Mission Waco)
    • Address: 1217 Mary St.
    • Phone: (254) 753-4900
    • Services: Emergency overnight shelter for individuals.
  • Compassion Ministries
    • Address: 1421 Austin Ave.
    • Phone: (254) 755-7640
    • Services: Transitional housing and support for homeless families with children.
  • Family Abuse Center
    • 24/7 Hotline: (800) 283-8401
    • Services: Safe shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence.
  • The Cove
    • Address: 524 W. Waco Dr.
    • Phone: (254) 224-6095
    • Services: A resource center for Waco-area students (ages 14–24) experiencing homelessness.

Clothing & Household Items

  • The Clothesline (Mission Waco)
    • Address: 1817 Franklin Ave.
    • Phone: (254) 754-5463
    • Services: Thrift store providing clothing to those with a Mission Waco voucher.
  • Caritas Clothing Closet
    • Address: 300 S. 15th St.
    • Phone: (254) 753-4593
    • Services: Free clothing and small household goods for those in need.
  • Esther’s Closet
    • Address: 1226 Washington Ave.
    • Phone: (254) 750-1000
    • Services: Professional attire and job interview coaching for women.

Utilities & Financial Aid

  • EOAC (Economic Opportunities Advancement Corp)
    • Address: 1800 N. Valley Mills Dr.
    • Phone: (254) 753-0331
    • Services: Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) for electric and gas bills.
  • St. Vincent de Paul Society
    • Phone: (254) 753-0125
    • Services: Emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, and medical needs.
  • Lone Star Legal Aid
    • Phone: (254) 756-7944
    • Services: Free legal assistance regarding evictions, public benefits, and safety.

Senior & Family Support

  • Meals on Wheels Waco
    • Phone: (254) 752-0316
    • Services: Home-delivered meals for homebound seniors (60+).
  • CareNet of Central Texas
    • Phone: (254) 772-6175
    • Services: Free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and baby supplies (diapers, formula, clothes).

Important Notes for Visitors:

  • Documentation: Please bring a Photo ID and Proof of Residence (like a utility bill) when visiting these organizations.
  • Call Ahead: We recommend calling ahead to confirm current hours and to see if you need an appointment.
  • Stay Informed: For a searchable database of even more services, visit FindHelp.org and enter your zip code.

Disclaimer: One Way Community Church provides this list for informational purposes and is not affiliated with the operations of these external organizations.