Mississippi is considered the poorest state in the country. It has the lowest household income, which means that a lot of people struggle financially to make ends meet each month. This is the same for seniors, who usually live on fixed incomes. They may struggle to meet their basic needs, making it crucial that they know about programs offering financial assistance for seniors in Mississippi.
The federal and state government both offer social services programs that will help seniors who may be struggling to get their bills paid. Some of the programs provide long term assistance, while others may provide temporary solutions. To qualify for the programs, you have to meet their low income guidelines, and be a citizen or legal non-citizen.
There are also programs offered through non-profit organizations that will provide financial assistance for seniors in Mississippi. The programs will help people who are struggling in the communities where they are located. These programs may have less strict regulations when it comes to verifying income and citizenship status. There are no limits to how many programs you can get help from, so be sure to reach out to all those you feel qualified for. The more you get help from, the better position you will be in to get your basic needs met.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program used to be called food stamps and most people still refer to it as that. It is a program offered through the federal government that will help ensure seniors and others who are struggling financially have their basic food needs met each month. Those who are approved will receive a debit-style card that the government electronically loads funds onto each month. The card can be used to pay for groceries at the store or farmers market. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen and meet the low income requirements. As long as you continue to meet the qualifications you can continue to get the assistance, as there is no time limit on it. The amount that a senior will get depends on if there are other dependents in the home. To get more information and apply, click here.
Mississippi Food Network – Seniors who are in need of help obtaining food supplies can reach out to a local food bank or pantry. They will give people free food supplies. Many have senior programs that will ensure seniors in need get food each month, and some will deliver it to them. To find a food bank or pantry near you, click here.
Salvation Army – Seniors who would like to go somewhere they can get a free prepared meal can find their local Salvation Army. Most locations have a soup kitchen that will provide people with free hot meals. They also have a pantry, which will give people boxes of food they can take home. This faith-based organization also provides people with free clothing and shelters. To get more information and find one near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This federal agency will help seniors with rental assistance, paying for house repairs, and help them find affordable housing options. HUD will also provide weatherization services, which will help make the home more energy efficient, thus reducing monthly energy bills. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen and meet the low income guidelines. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD as long as you continue to meet the qualifications. To get more information and apply for financial assistance, click here.
South Mississippi Housing Authority – This state program will help people with emergency rental assistance needs. The program is intended for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, or someone fleeing something like domestic violence situations. To get more information and apply for their programs, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program will help seniors in Mississippi pay for such utility bills as those for power, gas and other energy sources. The program is funded by the federal government. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income guidelines, as well as be a legal citizen or permanent U.S. resident, and have an energy bill that is due. They will also provide weatherization services and emergency energy bills assistance. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
211 – This number is provided by the United Way organization. It is a free referral service that people can call to get information about local programs that can help with unique situation. You can call the number to get local program information for getting help with paying utility bills, obtaining food, rental assistance, and more. They have information about local programs you may not find online. To get more information about the 211 program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This is the best program to get assistance for paying medical bills. It is provided by the federal government and will help pay medical bills for those who are under the age of 65 and have a low income. You also have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen to qualify. If you are approved, the program will help you pay for going to the doctor, hospital, specialist, and to obtain medications. Top get more information about the program and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is much like Medicaid, listed above. The difference is that it is for those who are over the age of 65 and there are no income requirements. The program is available to everyone who is a legal resident of the state and meets the age requirement. There is no limit to how long you can get assistance from the program. Those who are approved will get help paying for medical bills for the rest of their lives. To get more information and apply for Medicare, click here.
