Michigan has many seniors living in the state and at times some of them need financial assistance. There are numerous reasons why they may be faced with financial challenges, but the reason why isn’t as important as being able to get the help. By getting the financial assistance for seniors in Michigan, they will be able to ensure their basic needs are still being met, despite their financial situation.
Seniors who need help paying for their basic needs can turn to programs provided by the federal and state government. They both provide programs that will help with things such as paying rent and purchasing food supplies. There are also some organizations that serve the communities where they are located, providing supplies and resources for the seniors and others who may be experiencing financial challenges.
There is no limit to how many programs seniors can apply for or receive funds from, so be sure to apply for as many as you feel qualified for. The help that you receive is not considered a loan, so it will never have to be paid back. It is considered a gift to help people in the community. We have somewhat of a safety net in place to help the people who need, with some programs providing long term solutions and others helping for a limited period of time.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Getting food assistance is the focus of this federally funded program that used to be called food stamps. Seniors who have a low income and need help obtaining food supplies can apply for this program to see if they qualify for help. If they qualify, they will be given a debit-style card that can be used as a payment source when purchasing food items at the store. It is also accepted at some farmers markets. The government will electronically add funds to the card each month, and there is no limit for how long you can get this assistance as long as you continue to met the requirements. To qualify, you will have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Salvation Army – Most people are familiar with this organization for their red kettle bell ringing each December, in which they collect donations. They use the funds to help support their community programs, which includes providing people with food supplies, free hot meals, clothing, shelter, bill payment assistance, and more. They also offer holiday help for people who are struggling. To get more information contact a location near you. To find locations near you, click here.
Food Bank Council of Michigan – A food bank or food pantry is a place where people who need assistance can go and get free food items. There are numerous locations in the state. Some will also deliver the free food to seniors who may not be able to go pick it up. Contact the local food banks and pantries in your area to see when and how you can get supplies from them for free. To get more information and find one near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This government agency helps more people with their rental assistance than any other in the country. Additionally, they provide help with locating affordable housing options, paying for house repairs, and making the home more energy efficient through weatherization services. To get help from this agency, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. They can help you with most of your housing assistance needs. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
State of Michigan – The state government offers programs and information about additional resources in the state that can help with rental assistance. There are a variety of programs that seniors can turn to for help with paying their rent and finding somewhere affordable to live. To get more information, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) – This program will help seniors pay for their utility bills if they have low income and are the person who is responsible for paying the bill. They can also help with emergency assistance if you are facing a shut off notice. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
211 – Seniors can call this number to get leads on programs in their local area that will help with paying utility bills, as well as information about how they can get free food, rental assistance, and more. The number is a program that is provided by the United Way organization. It is free to use and open to everyone. To get more information about the 211 program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – Medical bills are some of the most difficult things for people to keep up with if their income is limited. This program, funded by the federal government, will help those under the age of 65 to pay for their medical bills. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. If you are approved, you can utilize the program for as long as you meet the qualifications, because there is no time limits. The program will help pay for most medical bills, including for the doctor, hospital, specialist, and for prescription drugs. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicare – This program will do the same things as the Medicaid program above. It is very similar and funded by the federal government as well. The difference with this one is that it is for those over the age of 65. Also, you don’t have to meet any low income guidelines to get this assistance. It is provided to all those who meet the age requirements and are legal residents. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
