Home Repair Grants For Seniors

Can’t Afford Home Repairs? Senior Grant Programs That Can Help

Last updated: August 2025

This guide helps older homeowners find and use real, official programs that pay for or reduce the cost of home repairs, safety upgrades, and energy improvements. We include direct links to government pages, realistic timelines, what to expect, and how to avoid scams.

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If You Need Emergency Help

• Unsafe living conditions right now (live wires, gas smell, structural danger): Call 911.
• After a disaster (flood, fire, hurricane, tornado) in a declared area: Apply for FEMA help at DisasterAssistance.gov: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Learn about FEMA Individuals and Households Program here: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program
• Urgent home repairs and temporary shelter from a local nonprofit: Contact 211 to find local help: https://www.211.org/
• If a contractor is pressuring you or asking for full payment up front: Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ and contact your state licensing board.

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Key Takeaways

• There are real, official programs that can pay for critical repairs and accessibility upgrades (grants) or offer very low-interest loans. Start with federal programs, then check state and local options.
• The most commonly used programs for seniors include:
  • Weatherization Assistance Program (energy efficiency and health/safety fixes)
  • USDA Section 504 Home Repair (loans and grants for rural homeowners; grants for age 62+ who cannot repay a loan)
  • FEMA assistance after disasters
  • HUD-funded local programs (HOME and CDBG)
  • Tribal Housing Improvement Program for members of federally recognized Tribes
  • Nonprofits like Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity
• Program rules and dollar limits change. Always verify on the official program page before you apply.
• Expect paperwork, proof of ownership and income, and possible home inspections. Waiting times can be weeks to months.
• Avoid anyone who guarantees approval, asks for fees to “unlock” a grant, or wants cash up front. Use only official government sites and trusted nonprofits.

Got detailed questions about eligibility, timelines, and inspections? See our 50 Questions & 50 Answers on home repair grants.

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What Counts as a “Home Repair Grant”?

• Grants: Money you don’t have to repay if you follow the program rules (sometimes repayment is required if you sell the home within a set time).
• Loans: Low-interest financing designed for low- and very low-income homeowners (some with long repayment terms).
• Rebates/Tax credits: Savings you claim after you buy eligible equipment or complete certain upgrades.
• Services-in-kind: Work done by a nonprofit or local program at no cost to you.

Tip: Many seniors combine programs. For example, apply for Weatherization to cut bills and improve safety, use a local HUD-funded program for urgent repairs, and claim federal energy tax credits at tax time.

If grants in your area are limited, compare options in financial assistance for home repairs.

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Quick-Glance: Major Programs for Senior Home Repairs

Reality check: These programs are real but competitive. Some have waiting lists. Keep a simple folder with your documents ready so you can apply quickly when openings appear.

To cut energy costs and prevent shut-offs, apply for energy and weatherization assistance for seniors.

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How to Choose the Right Path (Grants vs. Loans vs. Rebates)

• If your income is very limited and you’re 62 or older in a rural area, start with the USDA Section 504 grant section on the official page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• If your main goal is lower utility bills and a safer, healthier home (fixing drafty rooms, old furnace, poor ventilation), start with Weatherization: https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
• If you had disaster damage, apply with FEMA first. Keep your FEMA application ID for other aid: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• If you live in a city or county with active rehab programs, check your local housing department site and HUD’s local office directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/field_policy_mgt/localoffices
• For accessibility and disability-related home changes, review VA grants if you are a veteran: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/ and ask your Medicaid office about Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/home-community-based-services/index.html

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What You’ll Need: Documents and Proof

Tip: Keep digital copies as PDFs and a paper folder. Label everything.

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Step-by-Step: How to Apply (and What to Expect)

1. Make a priority list
   Start with health and safety: roof leaks, electrical hazards, no heat, no safe exit, broken plumbing, mold/moisture, mobility barriers (no ramp or grab bars). For electrical hazards and panel upgrades specifically, see home rewire grants for seniors.
2. Identify programs that fit you

• Rural and age 62+: Check USDA Section 504.
• Energy and safety: Weatherization.
• Disaster damage: FEMA IHP.
• City/county rehab help: Local HOME/CDBG programs via HUD local offices.
• Tribal member: BIA HIP.
• Accessibility for disability: VA grants, Medicaid HCBS waivers.

3. Contact local intake offices

• WAP: Use DOE’s state/local contact finder linked above.
• USDA 504: Call your USDA Rural Development State Office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-us/state-offices
• Eldercare Locator can connect you to your Area Agency on Aging (AAA), which often knows every local repair program: https://eldercare.acl.gov/

4. Prepare for an inspection
   Many programs inspect your home to confirm what’s needed. Be ready to show problem areas and any code notices.
5. Wait times and approvals
   Some approvals are quick (weeks), others take months. Ask for the best estimate and whether a waitlist exists.
6. Work gets scheduled
   Programs often choose the contractor. Do not pay a contractor hired by the program unless the program directs you to do so in writing.
7. Keep records
   Save all letters, emails, and receipts. They help if you need to appeal or apply for more help later.

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Home Repair Grants Resource Pack (Free Download)

We created this free Home Repair Grants Resource Pack to help seniors and families apply for assistance with confidence.
Inside, you’ll find checklists, comparison tables, and safety tips — all verified from trusted sources like HUD, USDA, and FEMA.
This pack supports our mission to provide clear, helpful, and reliable information for older adults.

• ✅ Application Checklist: Prepare your documents step-by-step
• Quick Action Plan: Follow clear steps to apply successfully
• Program Comparison Sheet: See which grants and loans fit your needs
• Scam-Avoidance Tips: Protect yourself from fraud and fake offers

Download Full Resource Pack (PDF)

Updated October 2025 • Verified by GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team

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Typical Timelines and Realistic Expectations

Reality check: Programs can run out of funds mid-year. If that happens, ask when the next funding cycle begins and how to get on the list early.  While you wait for approvals, search income-based senior apartments you can apply to directly.

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Deep Dive: Core Programs for Seniors

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it does: Improves home energy efficiency and addresses related health and safety issues (insulation, air sealing, furnace/AC repairs or replacement, ventilation, sometimes minor electrical or plumbing fixes that affect energy work).
• Who it serves: Low-income households, with priority for older adults and people with disabilities.
• Why it matters: Lower bills, safer equipment, and healthier indoor air.
• How to apply: Start with the U.S. Department of Energy’s WAP page to find your state/local provider: https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
  Some states also list providers on their state energy office website.

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Loans & Grants)

• What it does: Provides loans to repair, improve, or modernize homes; grants to remove health and safety hazards.
• Who it serves: Very-low-income rural homeowners; grants are only for homeowners age 62+ who cannot repay a loan.
• Why it matters: Helps fix serious problems (roof, wiring, plumbing, accessibility barriers) for seniors with limited income in rural areas.
• How to apply: Review the official USDA page and contact your USDA Rural Development State Office:
  • Program page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
  • State offices: https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-us/state-offices
  • Check rural eligibility (by address): https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do

Note: Maximum loan and grant amounts can change. Always check the USDA page for current limits.

FEMA Individuals and Households Program (IHP)

• What it does: After a presidentially declared disaster, provides help for essential home repairs to make a home safe, sanitary, and functional, plus temporary housing if needed.
• Who it serves: Survivors who are uninsured or underinsured.
• Why it matters: Offers fast help when disaster strikes.
• How to apply:
  • Program details: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program
  • Apply online: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call 800-621-3362.

HUD HOME and CDBG (Local Rehab Programs)

• What they do: HUD funds local governments and nonprofits to repair or rehabilitate homes for low- and moderate-income households. Programs vary by city/county.
• Who they serve: Low- and moderate-income homeowners; some programs target seniors or accessibility.
• Why it matters: Can cover major repairs and accessibility modifications.
• How to find a local program:
  • HOME: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/home
  • CDBG: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/communitydevelopment/programs
  • Find your HUD local office: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/field_policy_mgt/localoffices
    Ask your city/county housing department for “owner-occupied rehab” or “home repair” programs.

Bureau of Indian Affairs Housing Improvement Program (HIP)

• What it does: Repairs, renovations, and in some cases replacement housing for eligible American Indian and Alaska Native individuals.
• Who it serves: Members of federally recognized Tribes living in designated service areas; income and housing need apply.
• Why it matters: Addresses severe housing needs in Tribal communities.
• How to apply: Review the BIA HIP program page and contact your local Tribal housing office: https://www.bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program

Not sure which option fits your age and needs? Compare programs in Housing for Seniors Over 60.

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Related Savings: Energy Rebates and Tax Credits

These are not grants, but they can reduce costs when paired with repair programs.

• Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (IRS §25C): Federal tax credit for eligible improvements like efficient windows, doors, insulation, and HVAC. Details here: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit
• Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRS §25D): Federal tax credit for solar and certain clean energy systems. Details: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/residential-clean-energy-credit
• Home Energy Rebate Programs (state-run under the Inflation Reduction Act): Rebates for energy upgrades will run through state energy offices. Check updates at the U.S. Department of Energy: https://www.energy.gov/scep/home-energy-rebate-programs

Tip: Ask your weatherization or local housing program whether your planned upgrades qualify for these credits or rebates. Keep all invoices.

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Accessibility & Safety Modifications

Common senior-focused home changes include grab bars, ramps, wider doors, lever handles, better lighting, non-slip flooring, handrails, walk-in showers, and stairlifts.

• Veterans (mobility or service-connected disabilities): The VA offers Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Housing Adaptation (SHA), and Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grants, plus HISA for some medical-related home changes. Learn more at VA Disability Housing Grants: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
• Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS): Some state Medicaid waivers fund home modifications that support living at home (e.g., ramps, roll-in showers). Start at Medicaid HCBS: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/home-community-based-services/index.html and ask your state Medicaid office or AAA for waiver programs in your area.
• State Assistive Technology Programs: Low-interest loans or device loan libraries for accessibility equipment and sometimes home modifications. Find your state program via the national directory: https://at3center.net/stateprogram
• Nonprofits:
  • Rebuilding Together (critical home repairs and safety mods): https://rebuildingtogether.org/
  • Habitat for Humanity’s Critical Home Repair: https://www.habitat.org/our-work/critical-home-repair

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Special Focus: Inclusive Pathways

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Many older LGBTQ+ adults live alone and may lack family support. Your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) can connect you with welcoming home repair programs and vetted contractors. Find your AAA via the Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/
• Ask local centers or Pride organizations about volunteer repair days and nonprofit partners (often coordinated with city housing departments).

Veteran Seniors

• Start with VA Disability Housing Grants if you have a service-connected disability: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
• If you don’t qualify under VA disability housing grants, still check local HUD-funded programs and nonprofits. Your county Veterans Service Office can help coordinate benefits.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Ask your doctor or therapist for a written note describing home modifications you need for safety or mobility. This can support Medicaid HCBS requests or nonprofit applications.
• Contact your state’s Assistive Technology Program for evaluations and low-cost equipment: https://at3center.net/stateprogram

Tribal Members and Alaska Natives

• Contact your Tribal housing office and review BIA HIP eligibility: https://www.bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program
• Some Tribes run their own weatherization and rehab programs funded by DOE or HUD. Start locally.

Rural Seniors (limited access)

• Use USDA’s eligibility map to confirm your address: https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do
• Ask your AAA and local USDA Rural Development office about mobile intake units or alternate ways to submit documents if travel is difficult. Get free, local help applying by contacting your local AAA from our Area Agencies on Aging directory.

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Combining Programs (Without Getting Tangled)

• Lead with the program that addresses your most urgent need (e.g., hazard removal through USDA 504, habitability after disaster with FEMA).
• Use Weatherization to stabilize energy systems and address health/safety related to energy work.
• Layer local HOME/CDBG rehab funds for additional repairs and accessibility.
• Claim federal energy tax credits at tax time for qualifying upgrades. Keep all receipts.
• Keep each program informed about other funding you are receiving—double-paying for the same item is not allowed.

After urgent repairs, reduce monthly costs by stacking programs—start with our Senior Benefits in 2025 guide.

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Red Flags and Safe Practices

Report fraud: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/

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Cost Planning When Grants Aren’t Enough

• Ask about low-interest payment plans from your utility for HVAC replacements.
• Consider aging-in-place upgrades that cost less but boost safety: grab bars, brighter LED lights, lever handles, secured rugs.
• Check faith-based groups and civic clubs for volunteer repair days.
• Ask your homeowner’s insurance about covered losses (e.g., sudden pipe burst). Keep photos and receipts.

If rent help is the urgent need, start here: housing & rent assistance programs for seniors.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are there grants just for seniors?
A: Yes. Seniors may qualify for home repair grants through the USDA Section 504 program (age 62+ in eligible rural areas). The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) prioritizes older adults, and many local HOME/CDBG programs set aside funds specifically for senior homeowners.

Q: Do I have to repay a grant?
A: Usually no—grants are not repaid if you follow program rules. Some include recapture if you sell or move within a set period. Ask the agency for its recapture policy in writing before accepting funds.

Q: What if I have no computer or printer?
A: Call the phone numbers on the official program pages. Many agencies accept mail-in or in-person applications. Your Area Agency on Aging can help with forms and submissions: https://eldercare.acl.gov/

Q: Can I hire my own contractor?
A: Often, no. Most grant and repair programs require approved contractors to ensure code compliance and quality. If you want to use your own contractor, get written approval first or you may lose funding.

Q: How do I prove my home is in a rural area?
A: Use the official USDA property eligibility tool to check your address for rural status and Section 504 grant eligibility: https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do

Q: My home was damaged by a storm but insurance denied my claim. What now?
A: Apply for FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP) if your county has a federal disaster declaration: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/. Keep your insurance denial letter—it’s often required for FEMA assistance.

Q: Will weatherization fix everything?
A: No. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) funds energy-related upgrades (insulation, air sealing, HVAC efficiency) and related health/safety fixes. It does not cover unrelated structural repairs.

Q: I rent my home. Can I get help?
A: Some programs—such as Weatherization—serve renters with landlord permission. Ask your local provider about renter eligibility. For repair grants, property owners (landlords) typically must apply.

Q: Where do I find local home repair grants near me?
A: Start with your Area Agency on Aging (Eldercare Locator), your city/county housing department, HUD’s local office directory, and nonprofits like Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity. These sources list senior home repair grants and low-income assistance in your area.

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Resources by Region (Find Local Doors to Knock On)

• Find your Area Agency on Aging (AAA): Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/
  Tip: Ask for “owner-occupied rehab,” “emergency home repair,” “weatherization,” and “accessibility modifications.”
• HUD Local Offices (city/county rehab programs): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/field_policy_mgt/localoffices
• Weatherization – State/Local Providers: https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
• USDA Rural Development State Offices (Section 504): https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-us/state-offices
  Rural address eligibility tool: https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do
• FEMA Disaster Help (when applicable): https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• Tribal Housing Improvement Program (HIP): https://www.bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program
• Medicaid HCBS (state contacts): https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/home-community-based-services/index.html
• State Assistive Technology Programs directory: https://at3center.net/stateprogram
• LIHEAP (utility help): https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
• Nonprofits: Rebuilding Together: https://rebuildingtogether.org/ and Habitat Critical Home Repair: https://www.habitat.org/our-work/critical-home-repair Some nonprofits offer one-time help with repairs, utilities, or essentials—see charities that help seniors.

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Application Checklist You Can Use Today

• Confirm which programs you’re eligible for (AAA can help).
• Gather documents (ID, proof of ownership, income, insurance, photos).
• Take clear photos of each problem area.
• Write a short list of top 5 hazards or urgent needs.
• Contact the intake line or online portal for each program.
• Track application numbers and dates in a notebook.
• Set reminders to follow up every 2–3 weeks.

Browse more how-tos and state guides in our housing section.

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Table: Accessibility & Home Modifications—Where to Ask First

For walkers, wheelchairs, and bathroom safety gear at low or no cost, start with free medical equipment programs.

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Table: “Is My Home Eligible?” Quick Guide

If you need shelter or rehousing right now, follow the steps in Emergency Help for Homeless Seniors.

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Table: Spot the Scam vs. Legit Program

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Reality Checks & Tips

• Programs run out of money. Apply early in the year and ask to be waitlisted if funds are exhausted.
• You might need more than one program to finish all repairs. Prioritize safety first, then accessibility, then comfort.
• Keep your homeowner’s insurance current. It’s often the first line of defense for sudden damages.
• Tell the truth on applications. Agencies cross-check information.
• If denied, ask how to fix the problem and when to reapply. Keep the denial letter.

Set realistic expectations using current Section 8 wait times for seniors.

To improve your odds and speed things up, use these Section 8 strategies for seniors.

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Official Program Links (Referenced Above)

• Weatherization Assistance Program (U.S. DOE): https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
  USDA State Offices: https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-us/state-offices
  Rural address eligibility: https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do
• FEMA Individuals & Households Program: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program
  Apply: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• HUD HOME Program: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/home
  HUD CDBG: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/communitydevelopment/programs
  HUD Local Offices: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/field_policy_mgt/localoffices
• BIA Housing Improvement Program: https://www.bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program
• Eldercare Locator (find your AAA): https://eldercare.acl.gov/
• Medicaid HCBS: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/home-community-based-services/index.html
• LIHEAP: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
• VA Disability Housing Grants (SAH/SHA/TRA) and HISA: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
• State Assistive Technology Programs: https://at3center.net/stateprogram
• Energy Tax Credits:
  Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit
  Residential Clean Energy Credit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/residential-clean-energy-credit
• Nonprofits: Rebuilding Together: https://rebuildingtogether.org/; Habitat Critical Home Repair: https://www.habitat.org/our-work/critical-home-repair
• Report scams: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
• 211 Helpline: https://www.211.org/

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Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility rules, and funding levels change over time and can vary by location. Always confirm current information on the official agency website or by calling the program before you apply. GrantsForSeniors.org is an independent resource and is not a government agency.

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About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.