Rhode Island is a state that has a higher cost of living than most other states in the country. As such, there are seniors who struggle with paying their bills and making ends meet each month. Seniors tend to live on a fixed income, which doesn’t give them additional funds to pay for things that are unexpected or if the cost of things go up. The good news is that there are programs that offer financial assistance for seniors in Rhode Island.
Seniors can apply for the programs below to see if they can get financial assistance. The programs, which are made possible by the federal and state government, as well as some organizations, will ensure that basic needs are being met. The programs will help with paying for food, utilities, rent, and medical bills. There is no limit to how many programs you can apply for, so be sure to apply for all those that seem like a good fit. The more you apply for, the better your chances of ensuring all of your needs will be met.
Most programs provided by the government, whether that is at the federal or state level, tend to require that the person be a citizen or legal non-citizen. They also have low income requirements that the person must meet in order to be approved. When it comes to programs offered through organizations, many of them do not have strict requirements for getting help. They usually open their doors to anyone in the community who says they need assistance. None of the financial assistance that seniors receive from these programs will have to be paid back, because it is not considered a loan.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Prior to 2008, this program was called food stamps. While the name was officially changed, it is still what many people call it today. Regardless of the name, it is a program that will help seniors obtain food each month. Those who are approved for SNAP will be given a debit-style card that the government adds funds to each month electronically. The card can then be used to pay for groceries at the store. Some farmers markets also take SNAP benefits. The amount a senior will receive each month will be determined by whether or not there are other dependents in the home. There is no time limit for how long someone can get help purchasing food with a SNAP benefit. The program is open to anyone who is a citizen or legal non-citizen and has a low income. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – Many locations of this organization have a soup kitchen, which is a place that people can go to get a free hot meal. The organization gives away free meals, as well as bags of food that people can take home and prepare. They also have other helpful programs, such as providing free clothing, some small bill payment assistance, and shelters. To get more information about their services and find a location near you, click here.
Rhode Island Community Food Bank – This organization will help seniors find food banks and food pantries in their area. These are places they can turn to for free food supplies, and some will even deliver the goods to the seniors. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Paying rent and finding an affordable place to live are often the top concerns that seniors have. Housing is a major issue for most people who are struggling financially. HUD is a federal program that was created to help with such housing issues. HUD provides several programs to help low income seniors and others who need financial assistance in Rhode Island. They will help people pay their rent, avoid foreclosure, find affordable housing options, pay for home repairs, and more. Those interested in reducing their monthly utility bills can also take advantage of their free weatherization services, which will help make the home more energy efficient. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Rhode Island Housing – This organization will help seniors and others who need housing assistance. They offer various programs, including renter programs, renter resources, rental assistance, and access to government owned housing units. To get more information, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program, which is federally funded, will help seniors and others who have a low income. They provide utility bill payment assistance for those who qualify. Some of the programs they provide include heating assistance, cooling assistance, and crisis assistance. Those who need help paying their past due bill or are facing a disconnect can also get immediate assistance. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements. Applications are taken each year from September through May. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – The United Way organization provides this number that people can call to get referrals to programs that provide financial assistance in their area. The program can help with finding a local place to help pay utility bills, as well as provide free food, shelter, and more. To get more information about the free referral program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – Seniors who have a low income and need help paying for medical bills may be able to get assistance through this program. Medicaid is a program by the federal government that helps pay for most medical bills. To qualify, you have to be low income, under the age of 65, and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to Medicaid listed above. The difference is that it is for those over the age of 65 and there are no income requirements. This program is open to every citizen and legal non-citizen in the country, regardless of income. To get more information and apply, click here.
