Many seniors in Ohio struggle to make ends meet each month. They often have a fixed income, meaning that it stays the same each month, and they have more bills than what the amount can cover. Rather than continuously falling short, it is a good idea to get assistance so that they can ensure all of their basic needs are being met. There are numerous programs that provide financial assistance for seniors in Ohio, and there is no limit on how many you can apply for at once.
The state and federal government provide many of the programs that provide financial assistance for seniors. In Ohio there are also programs that are provide by organizations that have a mission of helping people in the community where they live. The financial assistance provided by the programs below does not have to be paid back, because it is not considered a loan.
The programs below will help ensure that basic needs are being met for seniors. The programs will ensure that people have enough food, their rent is paid, and that they get assistance paying for medical bills. No matter what type of basic need a senior needs financial assistance for there is a good chance there is a program that will help provide it. Apply for as many of the programs as you feel qualified for, because there is no limit on how man you can apply for or receive funds from at once.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Seniors in Ohio who need food assistance can apply for SNAP. This federally funded program used to be called food stamps and is what many people still call it today. The program will provide those who qualify with a way to help pay for groceries each month. They will provide those who are approved with an electronic benefits card that has funds added to it each month. The card can be used to help pay for groceries at the store and some farmers markets. The amount that one receives if they are approved for the program is based off of how many dependents are in the home. Unlike some federally funded programs, there is no time limit for how long you can get help through SNAP. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Salvation Army – Those looking for a place to get free hot meals can contact their closest Salvation Army location. This faith-based organization has locations around the country and they provide free food to those in need. In addition to hot meals, they also provide bags of food that people can take home, free clothing, shelters, and more. They do not typically have strict qualification requirements in order to receive the assistance. They are willing to help everyone who needs it. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – To get help with paying rent, seniors can contact the HUD office in the state of Ohio. The agency is part of the federal government and is tasked with helping people with their housing needs. HUD will help those who have a low income and are citizens or legal non-citizens. They provide several programs to help seniors and others, including helping to pay for rent, paying for house repairs, and providing weatherization services. HUD also owns housing units and they will allow some people to live in them. They can also help people find affordable housing in their area. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
National Low Income Housing Coalition – This organization can help seniors in Ohio who need help with paying rent or utilities. Funds for the program are limited, so not everyone who applies will be able to be approved. They can help find you resources to reach out to for emergency rent assistance as well. To get more information, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) – This program is funded by a block grant from the government. This means that once a year, the federal government gives the state a large amount of money to help people pay their utility bills. Once that money runs out they cannot help anyone else until the next time they get another block grant. Those who have a low income and are the one responsible for paying for their utility bill may be able to get help from this program to get it paid. To get more information and apply for financial assistance, click here.
211 – Seniors who need financial assistance to pay for utility bills or other things can call this number. The 211 program is provided by the organization called the United Way. It’s a free referral program that is open to everyone who needs financial assistance. You can call them and they will find you local programs that may be able to help you with your bills. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – Paying for medical bills can be one of them most challenging things for seniors. This program, which is provided by the federal government, will pay for most medical bills for those who qualify. The qualifications for the program include being under the age of 65 and being a citizen or legal non-citizen. The program will help pay for such bills as those for going to the doctor, hospital, specialist, and for obtaining prescription drugs. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is provided by the federal government and is for seniors over the age of 65. The program helps pay for most medical bills for those who qualify. There is no income limits tied to this program. Rather, it is open to every citizen or legal non-citizen in the country who is over the age of 65. To get more information and apply for Medicare in Ohio, click here.
