Low-cost housing in Collin County? (Dallas, Plano: low income, section 8, apartments)

[USA_Mom]

One of my friends is planning on leaving her husband and she has 2 kids, boy and a girl who are about 6 years apart in age (6 and 11). Problem is she makes only around $25K a year and I don't know if she can afford to do this or whatever. She's going to see a paralegal today, but she asked me if I knew where or what apartments she could rent for low income. Right now she's in Plano and she would like to keep the kids in that area if possible. Any ideas because I honestly don't know and I don't know if she would qualify and for what.

[GayleTX]

There is quite a lot of Section 8 Housing in McKinney......you might check with an apartment locator and see where more are located.

[BstYet2Be]

Here are two excellent organizations that she can contact for guidance:

Hope's Door - shelter and counseling center for families affected by domestic violence

Genesis Women's Shelter


Also, here is the link to the State of Texas Health & Family Services Dept. covering Housing, Food & Financial Assistance:

TexasOnline : Health and Family Services


Good luck to all of you!

[USA_Mom]

Thanks I think that should get her started. I knew you all would have more advice on that end than I could. Thanks again.

[scyogi]

AGH!!!!!!! No, no, no......The section 8 housing in Mckinney looks very, very shady. It also had a very bad article written about it a few weeks past in the Dallas paper. With kids I would say this is not even a option! Seriously I know her finacial situation makes thing nearly impossible but she should hunt high and low for alternative housing. Maybe she could contact a local church to see if they have any good leads. I am sure any faith would be happy to help.

[USA_Mom]

Keep the ideas coming. I doubt she will actually *do* anything until after the holidays. I don't know if she's being abused or not, she hasn't said.

[BstYet2Be]

Originally Posted by USA_Mom

Keep the ideas coming. I doubt she will actually *do* anything until after the holidays. I don't know if she's being abused or not, she hasn't said.

I'm like you, I cannot see how she would be able to afford to support herself & 2 children on that amount, so hopefully, if nothing else, these agencies can point her in the right direction to get the assistance she'll need. 'Tis so sad to see families in such turmoil at this time of year!

Best to all!

[lh_newbie]

Don't forget that her salary won't be the only support for the children. Child support in TX is something like 25% for two kids. I believe the maximum for two kids is somewhere around $1500 per month if the ex makes ~96K/year.

[USA_Mom]

Originally Posted by lh_newbie

Don't forget that her salary won't be the only support for the children. Child support in TX is something like 25% for two kids. I believe the maximum for two kids is somewhere around $1500 per month if the ex makes ~96K/year.

LOL funny he makes almost that much from his job. But I told her she probably should see an attorney too when she gets serious because IIRC they can write in the divorce if she gets on that he has to cover her attorney fees as well.

[scyogi]

Good to hear he makes a decent living. Sometimes mom's don't want to force the maxium child care amount. Child support provides lights, food, a decent home, clothes, cable, entertainment, and EVERY other comfort the child had when the 2 parents were married.