Save money, get free services — help and savings for low-income Texans

This page collects every discount, free service, and savings program we know about for households that receive government benefits. Hand-curated from official sources, updated weekly.

42 hand-curated programs across 12 categories · 28 national · 14 Texas-specific · Last refreshed Jul 26, 2026 07:00 UTC-06:00 · Updated weekly

Every program on this page (42 total)

National and Texas-specific programs. Sorted by impact for low-income households. Apply for as many as you qualify for — they stack.

Comcast Internet Essentials

$9.95/month home internet for low-income households

National

What it is: Comcast's low-income broadband program. 50/10 Mbps (faster in some areas), no credit check, no contract, free self-install kit.

Eligibility: Receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Housing Assistance, WIC, SSI, NSLP/School Lunch, or LIHEAP. Also Pell Grant recipients.

How to apply: Apply at internetessentials.com. Verify eligibility with a screenshot of benefits approval, award letter, or EBT card.

Visit website →

AT&T Access

$30/month home internet for low-income households

National

What it is: AT&T's affordable home internet program. Up to 100 Mbps fiber where available, no deposit, no installation fee.

Eligibility: Receive SNAP (within last 3 months), SSI, NSLP, Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension, or Tribal assistance. Income under $39,440 (single) / $53,560 (family of 4) for non-benefits path.

How to apply: Apply at att.com/access or call 855-220-5211. Verify eligibility with benefits card or award letter.

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T-Mobile Project 10Million

Free home internet for K-12 students (national)

National

What it is: T-Mobile's program: 100GB/year of free home internet data for K-12 student households. Free hotspot or router for eligible families. (Already in ETXR catalog.)

Eligibility: K-12 student in a household that qualifies for NSLP/School Lunch, SNAP, TANF, Housing Assistance, or has an income under 200% of the federal poverty line.

How to apply: Apply through your K-12 school district. Many ETX districts have a coordinator. Or call 844-341-5013.

Visit website →

Qlink Wireless Lifeline

Free cell phone + monthly data for low-income (already in ETXR)

National

What it is: Lifeline is a federal program that gives a free cell phone + free monthly minutes/data to income-qualified households. Qlink is one of the largest providers in Texas. (Already in ETXR catalog.)

Eligibility: Receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, SSI, Federal Public Housing, Veterans Pension, or income under 135% of the federal poverty line.

How to apply: Apply at qlinkwireless.com with proof of benefits (Medicaid card, SNAP/EBT card, etc.) and a valid ID.

Visit website →

Lifeline Program (general)

$9.25/month discount on phone or internet (federal)

National

What it is: Federal program that gives a $9.25/month discount on phone or broadband service. Can be combined with the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) for additional savings.

Eligibility: Receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, SSI, Federal Public Housing, Veterans Pension, or income under 135% of the federal poverty line. One benefit per household.

How to apply: Apply at lifelinesupport.org or through a participating provider (Qlink, Safelink, Assurance, etc.).

Visit website →

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) - if reauthorized

$30/month broadband discount (status: paused, but reintroduction in progress)

National

What it is: Federal broadband benefit. $30/month discount on home internet, $75/month on tribal lands. Eligible households also get a one-time $100 device discount.

Eligibility: Same as Lifeline (Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, SSI, etc.) or income under 200% of federal poverty line.

How to apply: Application paused as of June 2024 due to funding. Reintroduction in progress through Congress. Check fcc.gov/acp for current status.

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HEB for SNAP Customers

Discounted produce and free meal programs at Texas HEB stores

Texas

What it is: Texas-based HEB runs the "HEB Feeding Hope" program and "HEB Buddy Card" (free for anyone, including SNAP recipients). Some stores offer 5x coupons on SNAP days, double-up produce matches, and free hot meals for kids in summer.

Eligibility: Anyone, but most programs are free for SNAP/EBT recipients.

How to apply: Look for the HEB Feeding Hope section in your local HEB or ask at customer service. Some offers are automatic at checkout with EBT card.

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Extra Help / LIS (Medicare Part D subsidy)

Lower Medicare Part D prescription drug costs

National

What it is: Federal subsidy that lowers Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays. The 'Extra Help' program is worth up to ~$5,300/year per person in reduced drug costs.

Eligibility: Medicare recipient. Income under $22,590/year (single) or $30,660/year (married). Limited assets.

How to apply: Apply at ssa.gov/extrahelp or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. (SSA is in the ETXR catalog.)

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Medicare Savings Programs (MSP)

Pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays

National

What it is: Four state-run programs (QMB, SLMB, QI, QDWI) that pay Medicare Part A and/or Part B premiums, deductibles, and copays. QMB also automatically makes you dual-eligible for Extra Help.

Eligibility: Medicare recipient. Income under ~$1,500/month (single). Texas-specific limits apply.

How to apply: Apply at yourtexasbenefits.com or through your local HHS office.

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Big Lots / Dollar General Discount Days

Manufacturer coupons + store coupons stack with EBT for additional savings

National

What it is: Big Lots accepts EBT and runs 'Buy $X save $Y' coupons weekly. Dollar General accepts EBT and has 'Digital Coupons' that stack on top of sale prices.

Eligibility: Anyone shopping with EBT card. Some coupons require store loyalty sign-up (free).

How to apply: No pre-application. Just shop with EBT and check the weekly ad for coupons.

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Internet2 / EducationSuperHighway

Free help finding low-cost home internet

National

What it is: Non-profit that helps families find the cheapest available home internet in their area based on benefits eligibility.

Eligibility: Anyone seeking low-cost internet.

How to apply: Go to internethelp.org, enter your ZIP, and answer a few questions. Get matched to a provider.

Visit website →

Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

Free help paying electric / gas bills (TX)

Texas

What it is: Texas HHS program: one-time annual payment directly to your utility for electric/gas bills, plus weatherization help (insulation, AC repair, etc.). Average benefit: $500-2,000.

Eligibility: Texas household. Income under 150% of federal poverty line (about $3,750/month for family of 4). Priority for elderly, disabled, young children.

How to apply: Apply through your local CEAP provider. In ETX: East Texas Council of Governments in Kilgore (903-984-8641) covers 14 ETX counties.

Visit website →

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) - Texas

Free home weatherization (insulation, AC repair) to lower bills

Texas

What it is: Free home improvements: insulation, weatherstripping, HVAC repair, water heater replacement, refrigerator replacement. Saves average household $400+/year in utility bills.

Eligibility: Texas household. Income under 200% of federal poverty line, or receiving TANF/SNAP/SLIAG, or LIHEAP recipient.

How to apply: Apply via your local CEAP provider (same as above).

Visit website →

Texas Property Tax Exemptions

Lower your home's property tax bill (TX)

Texas

What it is: Texas offers several property tax exemptions that can save $200-1,500+/year. The big ones: $100,000 homestead exemption (all primary residences), $5,000+$5,000 over-65 exemption, $12,000 disability exemption, 100% disabled veteran exemption (full waiver).

Eligibility: Texas homeowner using the home as primary residence. Additional exemptions for over-65, disabled, or veteran households.

How to apply: File Form 50-114 with your county appraisal district (deadline April 30). Many counties let you file online.

Visit website →

Texas Public Library Card

Free ebooks, audiobooks, movies, museum passes, language learning

Texas

What it is: Free with proof of Texas residency. Borrow ebooks, audiobooks, DVDs, language learning software (Rosetta Stone at many libraries), online courses (LinkedIn Learning, Coursera via library), and museum passes (Tyler Public Library has a museum pass program).

Eligibility: Texas resident with photo ID and proof of address. No income limit.

How to apply: Visit your local library with a photo ID and proof of address. ETX libraries: Tyler Public Library, Longview Public Library, Lufkin Angelina County Library, Rusk County Library, etc.

Visit website →

Goodwill Career Connections Texas

Free job training + computer access + certification prep (ETX locations)

Texas

What it is: Goodwill Industries of East Texas runs career centers in Tyler, Longview, and Lufkin. Free services: computer access, resume help, job search assistance, GED prep, soft-skills training, financial coaching.

Eligibility: Anyone in the service area. Some programs target SNAP/TANF/SSI recipients specifically.

How to apply: Walk in or call: Tyler (903-581-7064), Longview (903-297-0113), Lufkin (936-634-8092).

Visit website →

Credit Karma Tax

Free federal + state tax filing (covers most situations)

National

What it is: Free tax preparation software for federal and most state returns. Supports W-2, 1099, itemized deductions, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, dependent care credits.

Eligibility: Anyone with simple tax situations (W-2, common deductions). Income limits removed in 2024.

How to apply: Go to creditkarma.com/tax. Free for all filers (Credit Karma no longer offers their own product, but the IRS Free File and VITA programs are still free alternatives).

Visit website →

IRS VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)

Free in-person tax help for low-to-moderate income

National

What it is: IRS-certified volunteers prepare your tax return for free. In-person at libraries, community centers, schools. Especially helpful for EITC, Child Tax Credit, and self-employment.

Eligibility: Income under $67,000/year. Includes seniors, persons with disabilities, limited English speakers.

How to apply: Find a VITA site: irs.gov/individuals/find-a-location-for-free-tax-prep. ETX sites: Tyler Public Library, Longview Community Resource Center, East Texas Food Bank, Goodwill locations.

Visit website →

GetCTC.org

Free help claiming Child Tax Credit and EITC (no filing required)

National

What it is: Free IRS-supported tool that lets low-income families claim up to ~$4,000 per child without filing a full return. Especially helpful for non-filers who miss out on EITC/CTC.

Eligibility: Income under $63,398 (single parent) or $55,816 (married). Have a child under 19 (or under 24 if in school). Did not file 2022 or 2023 taxes.

How to apply: Go to getctc.org/start. Free, IRS-hosted. ~15 minutes to complete.

Visit website →

Cost Plus Drugs (Mark Cuban)

Lowest prescription drug prices in the US — often 90% off retail

National

What it is: Online pharmacy launched by Mark Cuban in 2022. No middlemen, no insurance, no hidden fees. They buy direct from manufacturers and pass the savings on. Price of every drug is on the website before you order.

Eligibility: Anyone with a valid US prescription. No income limit, no insurance required. Free shipping on all orders. Delivery in 2-5 business days.

How to apply: Ask your doctor to send your prescription to Cost Plus Drugs Pharmacy (NPI 1780217093) or call them. Sign up at costplusdrugs.com. No membership fee. Pay with HSA/FSA cards.

Visit website →

Annual Credit Report (free)

Free credit report from all 3 bureaus every week (was once a year)

National

What it is: Federal law (Fair Credit Reporting Act) entitles every American to a free credit report from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion every week through 2026. Was previously once a year.

Eligibility: Anyone with a Social Security number. No income limit. Free — they will NEVER ask for payment info.

How to apply: Go to annualcreditreport.com (the ONLY official site — avoid .com variations). Verify your identity with SSN/address. View or download all 3 reports. Space out requests: 1 every 4 months for free monitoring year-round.

Visit website →

Free Birth Certificate (Texas)

Free certified birth certificate for benefits recipients in Texas

Texas

What it is: Texas DSHS issues one free certified copy of your birth certificate (or your minor child's) if you currently receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, CHIP, or SSI. No fees. Mailed in 5-7 business days.

Eligibility: TX resident. Currently enrolled in any of: Medicaid, SNAP/TANF, CHIP, SSI. The birth must be registered in Texas (or born to a TX resident parent).

How to apply: Download the Application for Free Birth Certificate (Form VS-142) from dshs.texas.gov. Mail with proof of benefits (award letter or benefits card photocopy) + photo ID. Or apply in person at any DSHS office.

Visit website →

H-E-B Buddy (SNAP doubles produce)

SNAP users get a free buddy card; $40 of SNAP benefits becomes $80 of fresh produce

Texas

What it is: H-E-B's free loyalty program for EBT cardholders. When you use SNAP at H-E-B, your $40 SNAP purchase of fresh fruits/veggies gets matched with another $40 H-E-B coupon. Available at all TX H-E-B locations.

Eligibility: Texas SNAP/EBT cardholders. No income limit beyond SNAP eligibility.

How to apply: Visit any H-E-B customer service desk with your EBT card and photo ID. They'll sign you up and give you a free 'Buddy' loyalty card. Use it at checkout. Refreshes monthly — you can get $80 every month.

Visit website →

Texas Driver License Fee Waiver (for benefits recipients)

$0 driver license or state ID for Medicaid/SNAP/TANF/CHIP recipients

Texas

What it is: Texas DPS waives the $11-$16 driver license or state ID fee (still pay the $1 administrative fee) if you currently receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, or CHIP. Valid for the original issuance, not renewals.

Eligibility: TX resident. Currently enrolled in Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, or CHIP. Must apply in person at a TX DPS office.

How to apply: Schedule an appointment at txdps.texas.gov. Bring proof of current benefits (Medicaid card, SNAP letter, or yourtexasbenefits.com screenshot). Pass the written/road test if applying for a license.

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AAA Discounts (membership)

$14/year Classic membership unlocks hundreds of discounts

National

What it is: AAA membership ($14-$171/year depending on tier) unlocks discounts at hotels (10-25%), car rentals, theme parks (Disney, Universal, Six Flags), restaurants, and roadside assistance. Plus free battery jump, flat-tire change, lockout help.

Eligibility: Anyone. No income limit. Drivers are more likely to use it but non-drivers can join as associate members.

How to apply: Sign up at aaa.com or in person at any AAA office. Get your member card immediately. Use the AAA discounts portal or just show your card at participating businesses. Roadside assistance requires a tow (included in most tiers).

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Texas Free ID Voucher Program

Free Texas state ID for homeless individuals and people in recovery

Texas

What it is: Texas DPS partners with participating non-profits and homeless shelters to issue a free state ID (regularly $16) to qualifying individuals experiencing homelessness or in recovery. ID unlocks housing, banking, employment, and benefits access.

Eligibility: TX resident who is currently experiencing homelessness, in active recovery, or exiting the criminal justice system. Must be enrolled with a participating organization (lists on DPS website).

How to apply: Contact a participating organization in your area (Easter Seals, Salvation Army, Caritas, etc.). They verify your eligibility and provide a referral letter. Schedule a DPS appointment, bring the letter + a homeless shelter address (used for your ID).

Visit website →

Rx Outreach (free prescription drugs)

Free mail-order prescriptions for low-income individuals and families

National

What it is: Rx Outreach is a non-profit mail-order pharmacy. ~600 generic drugs at $0-$10 for 30-day supply, $0-$20 for 90-day. No insurance required. Covers most common chronic-condition meds (cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, mental health, asthma, HIV).

Eligibility: US resident, income under 400% of federal poverty line ($60K for a family of 4). No insurance required. Some meds are restricted if you have Medicaid/Medicare Part D.

How to apply: Apply at rxoutreach.org. Submit proof of income (pay stub, benefits letter, or tax return). Doctor sends prescription. 30-day supply ships free. Reorder via phone/online.

Visit website →

EYE see (free eye exams for low-income)

Free eye exams and glasses for low-income adults and children

National

What it is: Vision Service Plan (VSP) Eyes of Hope program + Lions Clubs + OneSight + local non-profits provide free comprehensive eye exams and free glasses (frames + single-vision lenses) to low-income individuals who are uninsured for vision care.

Eligibility: Income at or below 200% of federal poverty line ($30K single, $60K family of 4). No insurance (or insurance doesn't cover vision). Adults and children welcome.

How to apply: Visit vspglobal.com/eyes-of-hope to find a partner clinic near you. Or contact a local Lions Club. Some require a referral from a school nurse, case worker, or community organization.

Visit website →

Texas Victims Services (free help for crime victims)

Free counseling, advocacy, court accompaniment, and financial help for crime victims

Texas

What it is: Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and Crime Victims Compensation Program pay for medical bills, counseling, and lost wages for victims of violent crime. Local victim assistance coordinators provide free case management, court accompaniment, and emergency shelter referrals.

Eligibility: Texas victim of violent crime (assault, domestic violence, sexual assault, homicide family member, child abuse, robbery, drunk driving). Reported to police within reasonable time. Cooperation with law enforcement not required.

How to apply: Call 1-800-983-9933 or visit texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs. Apply for Crime Victims Compensation online. Local victim assistance coordinators are listed by county — contact your local one for help navigating the system.

Visit website →

Texas 2-1-1 Transportation Help

Free or reduced transit passes + non-emergency medical transport for low-income

Texas

What it is: Many Texas cities offer free or reduced-fare transit passes for seniors 65+, disabled individuals, and Medicaid recipients. Some transit agencies also offer free 'dial-a-ride' for medical appointments. Medicaid recipients also qualify for non-emergency medical transportation through their MCO.

Eligibility: Varies by city. Typically: seniors 65+, individuals with disabilities, low-income individuals (varies by city). Medicaid recipients: contact your MCO (managed care organization) for free NEMT.

How to apply: Call 211 for your city's specific program. Tyler: Tyler Transit offers half-fare for seniors/disabled. Longview: similar. For Medicaid NEMT: call the number on your Medicaid card.

Visit website →

Lifeline Program (federal)

$9.25/month phone or internet discount. Federal program for Medicaid/SNAP/SSI recipients. Apply at lifelinesupport.org o

National

What it is: Free or discounted program for East Texas residents who receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, or TANF — or who meet specific income requirements.

Eligibility: Varies by program: many accept anyone with SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, CHIP, or SSI. Others are based on income (typically 130-200% of federal poverty line). Some are age-specific (seniors 60+), disability-specific, or military status.

How to apply: Most are online applications at the program's website. Some require uploading a benefits card or income proof. Verification is usually instant for benefits-based programs; income-based programs may take 7-30 days.

Visit website →

HEB Feeding Hope

HEB's anti-hunger program: discounted produce, 5x coupons, free summer meals for kids. Most offers free for SNAP/EBT cus

Texas

What it is: Free or discounted program for East Texas residents who receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, or TANF — or who meet specific income requirements.

Eligibility: Varies by program: many accept anyone with SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, CHIP, or SSI. Others are based on income (typically 130-200% of federal poverty line). Some are age-specific (seniors 60+), disability-specific, or military status.

How to apply: Most are online applications at the program's website. Some require uploading a benefits card or income proof. Verification is usually instant for benefits-based programs; income-based programs may take 7-30 days.

Visit website →

Texas CEAP (utility help)

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program: one-time annual payment to your utility + free weatherization (insulation, AC r

Texas

What it is: Free or discounted program for East Texas residents who receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, or TANF — or who meet specific income requirements.

Eligibility: Varies by program: many accept anyone with SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, CHIP, or SSI. Others are based on income (typically 130-200% of federal poverty line). Some are age-specific (seniors 60+), disability-specific, or military status.

How to apply: Most are online applications at the program's website. Some require uploading a benefits card or income proof. Verification is usually instant for benefits-based programs; income-based programs may take 7-30 days.

Visit website →

IRS VITA (free tax help)

IRS-certified volunteers prepare your tax return for free. Income under $67K. ETX sites: Tyler Public Library, Longview

National

What it is: Free or discounted program for East Texas residents who receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, or TANF — or who meet specific income requirements.

Eligibility: Varies by program: many accept anyone with SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, CHIP, or SSI. Others are based on income (typically 130-200% of federal poverty line). Some are age-specific (seniors 60+), disability-specific, or military status.

How to apply: Most are online applications at the program's website. Some require uploading a benefits card or income proof. Verification is usually instant for benefits-based programs; income-based programs may take 7-30 days.

Visit website →

GetCTC.org (free Child Tax Credit)

Free IRS tool to claim Child Tax Credit + EITC without filing a full return. Up to ~$4K/child. Income under $63K. getctc

National

What it is: Free IRS-supported tool that lets low-income families claim up to ~$4,000 per child without filing a full return. Especially helpful for non-filers who miss out on EITC/CTC.

Eligibility: Income under $63,398 (single parent) or $55,816 (married). Have a child under 19 (or under 24 if in school). Did not file 2022 or 2023 taxes.

How to apply: Go to getctc.org/start. Free, IRS-hosted. ~15 minutes to complete.

Visit website →

Credit Karma Tax / IRS Free File

Free federal + state tax filing for income under ~$79K. EITC, Child Tax Credit, dependent care credits. irs.gov/freefile

National

What it is: Free tax preparation software for federal and most state returns. Supports W-2, 1099, itemized deductions, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, dependent care credits.

Eligibility: Anyone with simple tax situations (W-2, common deductions). Income limits removed in 2024.

How to apply: Go to creditkarma.com/tax. Free for all filers (Credit Karma no longer offers their own product, but the IRS Free File and VITA programs are still free alternatives).

Visit website →

GoodRx (free coupons)

Free prescription drug coupons and price comparison tool. No signup required. goodrx.com.

National

What it is: Free or discounted program for East Texas residents who receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, or TANF — or who meet specific income requirements.

Eligibility: Varies by program: many accept anyone with SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, CHIP, or SSI. Others are based on income (typically 130-200% of federal poverty line). Some are age-specific (seniors 60+), disability-specific, or military status.

How to apply: Most are online applications at the program's website. Some require uploading a benefits card or income proof. Verification is usually instant for benefits-based programs; income-based programs may take 7-30 days.

Visit website →

Internal Lifeline / ACP (if reauthorized)

Federal broadband benefit: $30/month discount, $75 on tribal lands, $100 device discount. Currently paused. Check fcc.go

National

What it is: Free or discounted program for East Texas residents who receive benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, or TANF — or who meet specific income requirements.

Eligibility: Varies by program: many accept anyone with SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, CHIP, or SSI. Others are based on income (typically 130-200% of federal poverty line). Some are age-specific (seniors 60+), disability-specific, or military status.

How to apply: Most are online applications at the program's website. Some require uploading a benefits card or income proof. Verification is usually instant for benefits-based programs; income-based programs may take 7-30 days.

Visit website →

How to apply (the big four)

If you only have time for one thing, call 211 Texas. For the rest, here's the short version.

  • SNAP (food stamps): Apply at yourtexasbenefits.com or at any of the 15 Texas HHS offices in East Texas. Most households get an EBT card within 30 days. Average benefit: ~$190/month per person.
  • Medicaid (health insurance): Same application at yourtexasbenefits.com. Coverage can start the same day for pregnant women and children; 30 days for adults. Income limit: 138% of federal poverty line for kids and pregnant women.
  • Medicare Savings Programs: QMB/SLMB/QI pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays. Apply at yourtexasbenefits.com or at a local Texas HHS office.
  • WIC (women, infants, children under 5): Apply at yourtexasbenefits.com. Income limit: 185% of federal poverty line (about $5,000/month for family of 4). Pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, infants, and kids under 5 all qualify.
  • Housing (Section 8 voucher): Apply through the local Public Housing Agency (PHA) for your county. Most ETX PHAs have waitlists of 1-3 years. Apply in every county where you have a connection.

Know a resource we're missing?

This directory is a community effort. If you know an East Texas organization, discount, or service that should be here, tell us — we review every submission.

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