The state of South Dakota has a lower poverty rate than most other states. However, there are still many seniors in the state who struggle financially. Many seniors struggle to get their bills paid each month, because they live on a fixed income that doesn’t usually keep up with the rising cost of rent, food, and other bills. The good news is that there are programs that will help provide financial assistance for seniors in South Dakota.
Seniors can help ensure that their basic needs are met by applying for financial assistance through the programs listed below. If they meet the low income requirements for the state and federal programs they will get a lot of help paying for their most common expenses. There are also programs provided by organizations that will help anyone in the community who needs it, ensuring that they have food and shelter.
The assistance provided by these programs will not ever have to be paid back, because it is not considered a loan. The funds are considered a gift to help people in the community. There is no limit on how many programs seniors can apply for or receive funds from at one time. With this in mind, it is a good idea to apply for multiple programs so that basic needs will be met. Some programs provide long term solutions, while others may only help out for a short period of time.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – For monthly financial assistance paying for groceries, seniors can apply for SNAP. This is a program that the federal government started years ago and called food stamps. It now has a new name, but many people still call it food stamps. The goal of the program is to ensure people don’t go hungry. Seniors who have a low income and are citizens or legal non-citizens may be approved for the program. Those approved will receive a debit-style card that will have funds added to it monthly by the government. The card can be used as a payment source when purchasing food at the store or some farmers markets. There is no time limit on how long one can use this program, and the amount that someone will receive is determined in part by how many dependents there are. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – Many people are familiar with this organization, because they see the red kettles set out in December. The organization uses that campaign to collect donations that are then used to support their mission. One of the things they do is help people with food assistance, including provide free hot meals and boxes of food to take home. They also provide people with free clothing and shelters. They have numerous locations around the state. To find a location near you, click here.
Great Plains Food Bank – This organization will help seniors locate food banks and pantries in their area. By contacting food pantries and banks, seniors can help get their basic food needs met. These places will provide people with free food, and some will deliver the food to seniors who may have difficulty getting out of the house to get it. To get more information and find a food bank or pantry near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is one of the biggest expenses that seniors usually have. This federally funded program will help seniors pay for their rent if they meet the qualifications, which includes having a low income and being a citizen or legal non-citizen. The programs they offer that provide financial assistance for seniors includes rent assistance, foreclosure avoidance, weatherization services, and help paying for home repairs. They have a voucher program that will allow seniors to live in the unit of their choice and they will help pay for the rent. HUD can also help people find affordable housing options in their area, which may include a unit that is owned by the federal government. To get more information and apply for housing assistance, click here.
State of South Dakota – The state government offers information about how to get rent assistance in the state. They can also help seniors locate affordable housing options. They have programs that will help with rent assistance and home repairs. To get more information and apply, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Seniors who need help paying for their monthly utility bills can apply for assistance through this federally funded program. The program will help some people pay for their heating and cooling bills, as well as to replace or repair their units and provide weatherization services. The qualifications include being low income and the person responsible for paying the bill. They will also help with crisis energy assistance. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
211 – Seniors can call this referral hotline, which is provided by the United Way, to find local programs that will help with financial assistance. They can find local programs that will help with paying utility bills, obtaining food, and more. It is a free service and open to everyone. To get more information, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – Seniors who have a low income and are under the age of 65 can apply to get financial assistance paying for medical bills through this program. Provided by the federal government, the program will help seniors pay for most types of medical bills, including prescription drugs. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is for those who are over the age of 65 and are legal residents of the state. There are no low income requirements to be approved. Once enrolled, the program will help people pay for most of their medical bills. There is no limit to how long seniors can use this program. To get more information and sign up for the program, click here.
