The number of seniors living in the state of Oklahoma is expected to rise in the coming years, adding to the many that already live there. As the population in the state ages into their senior years, it is important to remember that most will be living on a fixed income. This means many will struggle to get things paid and meet their basic needs. The good news is that there are programs that offer financial assistance for seniors in Oklahoma.
The programs that will help seniors and others who have a low income will ensure that their basic needs are being met. The programs provide food assistance, rent assistance, and help paying medical and utility bills. They are often funded by the state and federal government and are open to those who have a low income and are a citizen or legal non-citizen.
Below you will find a list of financial assistance programs for seniors in Oklahoma. Seniors can apply for these programs to get help meeting their basic needs. There is no limit to how many programs one can get assistance from, so apply for all those that you feel qualified for. Plus, the funds never have to be paid back, because it is not considered a loan. In addition to state and federally funded programs there are also some provided by organizations that focus on helping people in the community.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – The name of this program used to be food stamps, and it is still what many people call it, even though the name was changed in 2008. It is a program offered through the federal government that aims to ensure nobody goes hungry. Those who have a low income can apply for SNAP and if they are approved they will get financial assistance purchasing food each month. The benefit they provide varies by individual circumstances and is influenced by how many dependents are in the home. As long as you continue to meet the qualifications for the program you can continue getting it, because there is no limit on how long you can get assistance from it. The program is open to those who are citizens or legal non-citizens. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – This organization has many locations around the country. They focus on helping people who need assistance with obtaining food, clothing and shelter. The locations often have soup kitchens and food pantries, where people can go and get free hot meals and bags of food supplies. Their services are open to everyone in the community who needs assistance. To find a location near you, click here.
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma – This organization can help you find a food bank or pantry in your area. These are places that give out free food supplies to people in the community who need assistance, including for seniors. Some locations will deliver the items to seniors who have difficulty getting out. To find a food pantry or bank near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – The federal government has created HUD to help those in need with their housing issues. They have several ways they help people who have a low income and are citizens or legal non-citizens. Some of their programs include rent assistance, foreclosure avoidance, paying for house repairs, and weatherization services, which will help to lower utility bills. HUD also owns housing units that they will allow people to live in. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD as long as you meet the qualifications. They can also help people locate affordable housing options in their area. To get more information and apply for financial assistance, click here.
Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency – This organization has access to programs that can help seniors in Oklahoma with paying for their rent. They offer a housing voucher program that will help make rent more affordable for those who are struggling to get it paid. The voucher program provides rental assistance while allowing people to live wherever they choose. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Seniors who need help paying for their energy bills, including heating and cooling, can apply with this program. The program is funded by the federal government in an effort to help people who need financial assistance with paying their utility bills. They also offer crisis emergency bill payment services. The programs they offer include winter heating, energy crisis assistance, and summer cooling. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – Seniors can call this number to get referrals to local programs that can help with paying their utility bills, as well as other things they may need. This is a free referral service provided by the United Way organization and it is open to everyone who needs assistance. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
SoonerCare – This is the state’s program that is called Medicaid in other states. Seniors who need financial assistance paying for medical bills can apply for this federally funded program. The program will help pay for most types of medical bills, including for the doctor, hospital, specialist, and for prescription drugs. The program is open to those who are under the age of 65, are legal residents of the state, and who have a low income. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – Seniors who hare over the age of 65 can apply for this program to get financial assistance paying for their medical bills. The program does not have any income stipulations. It is open to all citizens and legal non-citizens who meet the age requirement. Once approved it will pay for the majority of most medical bills, ranging from going to the hospital to seeing a primary care doctor. To get more information and apply, click here.
