Disability Services and Accommodations in Houston

By The Change Lab -- via manual_seed -- Apr 18, 2026

Overview

Houston has a strong infrastructure of disability services — from accessible transit and housing to employment support and independent living programs. Whether you have a physical disability, intellectual disability, mental health condition, or chronic illness, programs exist to help you live independently and participate fully in your community.

The system can feel overwhelming. This guide maps the key entry points so you know exactly where to call.

Source: The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD; Texas HHS; METRO

The Framework

Key Ideas

The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD — the local authority for intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Harris County. Provides case management, day programs, residential services, employment training, and crisis services. Call 713-970-7000.

Texas HHS disability services:

Medicaid waiver programs — HCS (Home and Community-based Services), CLASS, DBMD, TxHmL. These programs fund in-home attendants, respite care, therapies, and other supports. Waitlists can be long — apply as early as possible at hhs.texas.gov/services/disability.
SSI/SSDI — federal disability income. Apply at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Approval often takes months and may require an appeal — get help from Lone Star Legal Aid (713-652-0077).

Transportation:

METROLift — door-to-door paratransit. Must apply and be certified. Call 713-225-0119.
METRO fixed-route buses — all buses are wheelchair accessible. Reduced fare cards available.

Housing:

Houston Housing Authority has accessible units and a disability preference on the Section 8 waitlist.
TIRR Memorial Hermann and Independent Living Centers can help find accessible housing.

Employment:

Texas Workforce Solutions — Vocational Rehabilitation — job training, placement, and accommodations. Call 713-627-3286.
Goodwill Houston — employment programs for people with disabilities.

Source: The Harris Center; Texas HHS; METRO; TWC

Put It Into Practice

Practice

Start here:

Call 211 and describe your needs. They will connect you with the right programs.
For IDD services: call The Harris Center at 713-970-7000
For Medicaid waivers: call Texas HHS at 211 or apply at hhs.texas.gov

For ADA accommodations:

Workplace: your employer must provide reasonable accommodations under the ADA. If they refuse, contact the EEOC Houston office at 713-651-4990.
Public spaces: file ADA complaints with the Department of Justice at ada.gov or call 1-800-514-0301.
Housing: fair housing complaints go to HUD Houston at 713-718-3199.

Resources