Program Overview
The Texas Senior Companion Program pairs trained volunteers with homebound seniors to provide regular companionship and light assistance with daily tasks. Volunteers visit on a consistent schedule, offering social connection that helps reduce isolation and improve well-being. For older Texans living alone, the Senior Companion Program provides meaningful human interaction and a reassuring presence.
Estimated savings: $2,000 – $8,000/year in 2026
Eligibility Highlights
- Age 60 or older
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What to Gather Before Applying for Texas Senior Companion Program in Texas
To apply for Texas Senior Companion Program in Texas you will need the following documents ready before contacting your local Medicaid office or calling 211.
Government-issued photo ID
Driver's license, passport, or state ID
Proof of income
Pay stubs, tax return, or SSI letter
Proof of residency
Utility bill, lease, or state-issued document
How to Apply for Texas Senior Companion Program in Texas
Check your eligibility
Clients must be 60+ and homebound or socially isolated. Volunteers must be 55+ and meet income guidelines.
Gather required documents
Call 2-1-1 Texas or your nearest AmeriCorps Seniors office to request a companion or sign up to volunteer.
Download forms
Download the program application. Volunteers will need to complete a background check and orientation training.
Submit your application
A coordinator will match you with a companion based on location, schedule, and interests. Visits start within 2 to 4 weeks.
Senior Companion Program Locations in Texas
Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery counties
Dallas, Collin, Denton, Tarrant counties
Bexar County
Travis, Williamson counties
El Paso County
Nueces, Hidalgo, Cameron, Willacy counties
Lubbock, Hockley counties
Midland, Ector counties
Don't see a location close to you?
Call the Texas Senior Companion Program Help Line to learn about service areas and enrollment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
To volunteer, you must be age 55 or older and meet federal income guidelines, which are set at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, in order to receive the stipend. The program is part of AmeriCorps Seniors (formerly Senior Corps), so eligibility follows federal guidelines. Clients who receive visits must be age 60 or older and be homebound or socially isolated, but there is no income requirement for clients.
Senior Companions commit to serving between 15 and 40 hours per week visiting and assisting older adults in their community. In return for this time commitment, volunteers receive a small tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement, and meals during their service hours. Most local program offices will work with you on scheduling, and the matching process pairs you with a client based on location, availability, and shared interests.
The program is completely free to the older adults who receive visits. Unlike home care or home health services, Senior Companions do not provide medical care, personal care, or clinical support. Instead, they offer friendship, conversation, and light assistance such as help with errands or accompaniment to appointments. It is a volunteer-driven program focused on reducing isolation rather than delivering professional caregiving.
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