Seniors living in the state of North Carolina may at times struggle to get their bills paid. As seniors tend to live on a fixed income, they find it challenging into keep up with how the prices of goods and services continue to rise. The good news is that there are programs that will provide financial assistance for seniors in North Carolina. These programs can make all the difference when it comes to making ends meet each month.
North Carolina seniors who are struggling financially do have a variety of places they can turn to for assistance. The programs will help ensure that their basic needs are being met, including obtaining food, having a place to live, and getting the medical care that they need. The programs will at least provide for the basic needs of individuals to help keep them from going hungry and ending up homeless.
The programs listed below that will provide financial assistance for seniors are largely made possible by the federal and state government. There are also some provided by organizations that have a mission of helping people in the community. The federal and state programs often have a time limit on how long you can get help through them, and they have qualification requirements. The ones provided through organizations tend to be more open to providing services without strict regulations on who can get help.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program is the first one to turn to in order to secure financial assistance to purchase groceries each month. The program, which used to be called food stamps, is provided by the federal government. Those who are approved will get a plastic electronic benefits card (EBT) that will be used to help pay for groceries each month. The government will electronically add funds to the balance each month. There is no limit on how many months you can receive help through this program. The qualifications include having a low income and being a legal resident of the state. The amount of the monthly benefit is determined in part by how many dependents live in the home. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – This organization is known for the numerous programs they provide to help people who need financial assistance. The programs will provide free hot meals, shelter, clothing, and more. They also have a food pantry and will provide people with food they can take home. There are locations throughout the state, so you can find one near you and contact them about obtaining help with food. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Feeding the Carolinas – This is an organization that will provide you with information about your closest food bank or food pantry. These are locations that will provide free food for those in the community who need it. Some food banks will hold certain days that you can go pick up bags of food, while others provide delivery days for seniors who may struggle to get out. To get more information and find a food pantry or bank near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Everyone needs shelter and many seniors struggle to pay their rent, because it is often their largest bill each month. HUD is a federal agency that has a mission of reducing homelessness in the country and helping people with their housing needs. Those who need help paying for their rent can apply for assistance with HUD. In addition to rental assistance, they will also help people find affordable housing options, and pay for house repairs. They can also help reduce utility bills by making the home more energy efficient through weatherization services. To qualify for help through HUD, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply for financial assistance, click here.
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency – This organization provides information about how to get rental assistance in North Carolina. They have information about programs provided by the state housing authority and local housing authorities. To get more information, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program is funded by the federal government. The goal of the program is to help people pay for their energy bills, including heating and cooling. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be the person responsible for paying the bill. They do provide emergency assistance for those who are facing a disconnection. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – The United Way organization provides the 211 program to help people find programs that will provide them with financial assistance. It is a free referral program that is open to everyone who needs financial assistance. They can help you find local programs to help with paying utility bills, rent, purchasing food, and more. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This is a program that will help pay medical bills for those who have a low income and are under the age of 65. You do also need to be a citizen or legal non-citizen to get qualified for the program. Those who are approved will get help paying for most medical bills, including those from prescription medications, doctors, hospitals, and specialists. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This is a program similar to Medicaid, listed above, and is provided by the federal government. Every seniors who is over 65 and is a citizen or legal non-citizen is qualified for this program. There are no income requirements or limits on how long you can use it. The program will pay for most medical bills for those who have it. This is a federally funded program. Seniors will get most of their healthcare paid with this program. To get more information and apply for Medicare, click here.
