Application opens February 15 for Texas Rent Relief Program

Applications open February 15 for the Texas Rent Relief Program, a statewide rent and utility assistance program for qualifying households.

'I am optimistic now': Post-pandemic hiring could rebound quickly

A hopeful view is gaining steam that as vaccinations reach a critical mass, perhaps around midyear, and the government provides further stimulus, the economy and the job market will strengthen much faster than they did after previous recessions.

Texas officials extend emergency SNAP benefits for February 2021

The Texas Health and Human Service Commission is providing about $300 million in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food benefits.

Biden, Harris hear GOP pitch for smaller COVID-19 relief package

President Joe Biden has met with a group of Republican senators who have proposed a slimmed down $618 billion coronavirus aid package, about a third of what he's seeking.

Unemployment claims drop; still at 847,000 as pandemic rages on

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell to a historically high 847,000 last week, a sign that layoffs remain high as the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage.

Texas grocery store run by high school students gives free food to families in need

A Texas high school runs its own grocery store so students and their families could get food and other necessities during the pandemic. Instead of money, they accept good deeds as payment. Now the store has expanded to help over 100 families in their community who are in need.

Houston fashion designer teaches herself to sew by watching YouTube

A young Houston mom knew school was out of the question at the time, but she didn't give up on her dreams. She's now a successful fashion designer after teaching herself to sew by watching YouTube.

Despite pandemic eviction bans, people are still losing their homes

The California eviction moratorium currently expires on January 31. Some people are losing housing despite the moratorium, and others who can't pay are harassed by landlords.

Stimulus checks and your 2020 taxes: All of your questions, answered

The federal government has delivered two stimulus checks to tens of millions of Americans as part of an effort to blunt the economic pain triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, but many are wondering how the payments could affect your 2020 taxes as filing season approaches.

Still no second stimulus check? Here's how to get your money

Some who are still waiting for the money to arrive will need to file a tax return in order to receive the money.

Biden's COVID-relief plan is expensive, challenging

A look at the proposal announced by President-Elect Joe Biden and what it means for you if it's passed by Congress.

SBA focuses new PPP loans to help more minority-owned businesses

The Small Business Administration says it is directing PPP loans to help more minority owned businesses after so many struggled to get the first PPP loans. 

Applications open for Galveston short-term rental assistance program

The City of Galveston is accepting applications for a rental assistance program to help residents who have faced financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.