Seniors who live in Georgia may struggle financially due to the rising costs of goods and services. They are usually on a fixed income, so the amount of money they have coming in each month doesn’t always keep pace with the cost of things like food, housing, and paying bills. The good news is that there are programs that provide financial assistance for seniors in Georgia.
The programs in Georgia that seniors can apply for are largely made possible through funding by the federal and state government. There are also some organizations that help by having programs that will financially help the people in their area who need assistance. There are programs that will help with meeting most basic needs and there are no limit to how many programs seniors can apply for or receive help from at one time.
Another great thing about the financial assistance programs in Georgia is that the funds they provide are not considered a loan. This means that seniors can receive the assistance without ever having to worry about paying it back. This will help people to have their needs met without having the stress of trying to come up with money to pay a program back. Most programs do require that you meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This is the largest food assistance program in the country. It is funded through the federal government and open to everyone in the country who meets the qualifications. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. Many people still refer to this program by its former name, which is food stamps. Seniors who are approved for this program will receive a plastic card that they can use to pay for groceries each month at the store or farmers market. The amount of money that is electronically added to the card each month by the government is determined in part by how many dependents are in the home. Seniors can get assistance for this program as long as they continue meet the requirements, because there is no time limits. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Salvation Army – Seniors who want a free hot meal can contact the Salvation Army that is closest to them. Most locations offer soup kitchens, which offers free meals to the community members in need. They also provide food that can be taken home. There are additional programs that they will help people with, including paying some bills, shelters, and providing free clothing. To find a location near you, click here.
Georgia Food Banks – Seniors can obtain free food from the food banks that are in their area. Most food banks offer a pantry, where people can obtain free food supplies. They also have events where they give away free food to people in the community who need the assistance. To get more information and find food banks in your area, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Rent is one of the largest, and likely most difficult, bills for seniors in Georgia to pay each month. Housing can be costly no matter where you live in the state. This agency, which is part of the federal government, provides more housing assistance in the country than any other entity. Those who have a low income and are citizens or legal non-citizens may qualify for help with paying their rent, finding affordable housing options, and getting help paying for necessary housing repairs. They also offer a free weatherization program, which will help to reduce monthly energy bills by making the home more energy efficient. To get more information about the programs offered by HUD, click here.
St. Vincent de Paul of Georgia – This faith-based organization provides housing assistance to those who have a low income or are facing homelessness. They provide such programs as emergency rent help, motel assistance, transitional housing, emergency housing, and help with paying the mortgage and utility bills. To get more information about the assistance they provide, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program, which is funded by the federal government, will provide seniors with help paying for their energy bill. The program will pay for your utility bill if you meet the low income requirements. You have to re-apply for this program each time they open the window, which is typically seasonally. If you are approved, they will send the funds directly to the provider on your behalf. To get more information and apply for financial assistance, click here.
211 – Those who need help paying for their utility bills, rent, or other basic needs can call this number for referrals to programs in your area. The number is provided by the United Way organization. They have a database of places they can refer you to that are local and can help with the type of financial assistance you need. To get more information, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This program will help seniors who are under the age of 65 to pay for medical bills. The program is provided by the federal government. Those who are approved will get help paying for bills from the doctor, hospital, specialist, and for prescription medications. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to the one above, Medicaid, only it is for those who are over the age of 65. There is no limit to how long you can get financial help from this program, and you do not have to meet any financial guidelines to get approved. The program is open to every citizen or legal non-citizen who is of age. The program will provide financial assistance for seniors to help pay for all of their medical bills. To get more information, click here.
