Considering Louisiana is one of the poorest states in the country, it would stand to reason that there are many seniors living in the state who struggle financially. While housing may cost less in the state, there are more people who live in poverty than in most other states. It is important that they learn about programs that offer financial assistance for seniors in Louisiana, so their basic needs will continue to be met.
Seniors who are struggling to meet their basic needs may not be able to purchase food, pay for their rent, or get the healthcare that they need. The programs that will help them with these things have been designed to help meet their basic needs and insure they don’t go hungry, homeless and without medical care.
The programs available that provide financial assistance for seniors in Louisiana are largely made possible by the federal and state government. They have created programs to help meet the basic needs of those who are struggling. There are also some offered by non-profit organizations aiming to help people in the community where they are located. The assistance that is provided does not need to be paid back, because it is not considered a loan. Seniors should apply for all those programs that they feel are a good fit for their situation.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Obtaining enough food each month is crucial for seniors. Those who need assistance with obtaining it may want to apply for SNAP. This federally funded program provides those who qualify with financial assistance to purchase food each month. Once approved, you will receive a debit-style card in the mail that will be electronically loaded with funds each month. The card can then be used as a payment source for groceries at the store. Some farmers markets also accept the cards for payment toward food items. To qualify, you have to meet the low income guidelines and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. If you meet the qualifications there is no limit to how long you can get help through this program. Many people still refer to this program by its prior name, which is food stamps. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
Catholic Charities – Being able to get a free hot meal or food supplies to take home is something this organization specializes in doing. They help people in the communities where they are located and they have many locations around the state and country. In addition to food assistance, they also help with shelters, bill payment, clothing, and other resources. To get more information and find a location near you in Louisiana, click here.
Food Bank of Central Louisiana – This organization can help with providing food bank and food pantry information. Seniors can contact those places in their area to get free food supplies. They also offer a mobile pantry program, which will deliver the food supplies to seniors who need the assistance. An additional program they offer is called Nourishing Seniors, in which they provide food supplies to those over the age of 60. They provide healthy food options and those that are diabetic friendly. To get more information and find a food bank or pantry near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This federal agency is the largest single provider of housing assistance in the state and country. Those who need help with paying their rent can turn to this agency to get assistance. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen and meet the low income guidelines. HUD can also help people find affordable housing options, reduce energy bills through free weatherization services, and get their housing repair bills paid for. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD if you meet the qualifications. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Louisiana Housing Corporation – This state agency provides rental assistance to those who need help in the state and meet the low income guidelines. Those who qualify for the programs they offer may get help with paying their rent, utilities, and paying utility deposits for new accounts. To get more information and apply for financial assistance, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This federally funded program will help pay for utility bills for seniors who qualify. To qualify for the assistance you have to have a low income and be the person who is responsible for the utility bill. They will ensure that your heating bills are paid, so that you do not go without heat. If you are approved for the bill payment assistance they will send it directly to the provider and your account will be credited with the payment. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – Seniors can call this number to get referrals to local programs that may help with their specific financial needs. The program is provided by the United Way organization and is free to use and open to everyone. They can help seniors find local programs to help with paying utility bills, rent, medical bills, and more. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This program is provided by the federal government and it aims to help those who are under the age of 65 pay for their medical bills. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. If you are approved there is no limit to how long you can get help through the program. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicare – This program is essentially the same as the one above and does the same service, but it is for those who are over the age of 65. Plus, for this program there are no income limits to meet. The program is open to every person who meets the age requirement and is a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information, click here.
