There are many senior citizens who struggle financially in America. This is especially true when it comes to an area like Washington DC, because the cost of living tends to be a bit higher there. Those who are struggling will need to ensure that their basic needs are still being met. There are programs that provide financial assistance for seniors in Washington, DC that they can turn to for help.
Being able to ensure basic needs are being met, despite not having a high income coming into, will ensure that seniors are able to eat, have a place to live, and get the healthcare that they may need. The programs that provide financial assistance go even beyond those basic needs, ensuring that seniors will have heating for the winter, home repairs, weatherization services, and much more.
The programs that provide financial assistance for seniors do not expect to be paid back. It is rare that one of the programs will provide a loan that needs to be paid back over time. Almost all of the programs provide financial assistance that never needs to be paid back, because it is considered a gift to help those in need.
Helpful Programs for Seniors
There are some programs to contact to get food assistance, rent assistance, and more in the Washington DC area. Contact as many of the programs as you feel you need, because there is no limit.
Food Assistance for Seniors
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program, which is still largely known by the old name of food stamps, will provide those who qualify with funds to purchase food each month. Seniors who have a low income and are citizens are legal non-citizens may qualify for SNAP benefits. This program will provide those who have a low income with a debit-style card that can be used each month to pay for groceries. The funds are electronically added to the card each month. There is no limit to how long you can use this program. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
211 – This is a phone number that anyone in the country can call to get free referrals to assistance programs. The service can help you find food assistance programs, as well as other types of programs, in your local area. To get more information about the program, click here.
Capital Area Food Bank – This is a food pantry in the Washington DC area that will provide people with free food. They also work with local soup kitchens, other food pantries, and senior programs to help ensure they have food to provide to those in need. You can contact the food bank to find out about getting free food. They will be able to provide you with free food, or give you a location closer to you where you will be able to get some. To get more information and contact them for assistance, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization provides free meals to those in need in the community. You can stop by a location near you to get free hot meals and to inquire about taking home boxes of food. They do not require that people be religious to get assistance from their organization. To get more information about the Salvation Army office that services the Washington DC office, click here.
Housing Assistance for Seniors
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Seniors who need financial help to pay for housing should turn to HUD for assistance. This is an agency that is part of the national government and they provide more housing assistance than any other entity in the country. They will help you find affordable housing options and pay for the rent. To get more information, click here.
Department of Aging and Community Living – This organization can provide housing assistance for seniors in the Washington DC area. They offer help with senior living centers, transportation, and more. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – It is essential for seniors to continue having their heating and cooling needs met, even if they are financially unable to keep up with the payments. This program will help people who need financial assistance to pay for their energy and utility bills. If you qualify, they will send the funds directly to the energy provider on your behalf. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be the person responsible for paying the bill. To get more information and apply for utility bill assistance for seniors in Washington DC, click here.
Washington Gas Cares – This program will help people pay for their utility bills in the DC area, as well as some of the local surrounding areas. They will also help you find ways to make the bill more affordable each month. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance
Medicare – Once a senior turns the age of 65, they are eligible to sign up for the federally funded program called Medicare. This program will provide help paying for healthcare costs for seniors in Washington DC and the rest of the country. The coverage will provide people with help paying to see the doctor, dentist, eye doctor, go to the hospital, obtain prescription medications, and more. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicaid – This program is provided through the federal government and is for those who are under the age of 65. To qualify for this program, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen, and you have to meet the low income qualifications. This program is for those who have a financial assistance need. There is no limit to how long you can receive help through the program if you continue to qualify for it. The program will provide assistance paying for a wide variety of healthcare expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and more. To get more information and apply for the Medicaid program, click here.
