Grants for Seniors in Norfolk
Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Norfolk, Virginia (2026 Guide)
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Last updated:
This is a practical, up‑to‑date guide to help older adults in Norfolk find real help fast—food, housing, healthcare, utilities, transportation, caregiver support, and more. Links go to official agencies whenever possible.
If You Need Emergency Help
- Life‑threatening emergencies: Call 911.
- Mental health crisis: Dial or text 988 (24/7) or visit the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org/.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1, or visit https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
- Adult abuse/neglect (including self‑neglect): Call Adult Protective Services at 1‑888‑832‑3858 (24/7). See Virginia APS at https://www.dss.virginia.gov/family/aps.cgi.
- Eviction or housing crisis: Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline 1‑833‑NOEVICT (1‑833‑663‑8428) and https://www.evictionhelpline.org/.
- No food, urgent shelter, or immediate local referrals: Call 2‑1‑1 or visit https://www.211virginia.org/.
- Poison Control: 1‑800‑222‑1222.
Key Takeaways
- Apply for multiple benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, Energy Assistance) in one place through Virginia’s CommonHelp portal: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/.
- For local senior services (meals, rides, caregiver help), contact Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (the Area Agency on Aging for Norfolk): https://www.ssseva.org/.
- For rent and housing, use the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA) for vouchers and public housing, plus HUD Section 202 senior apartments: https://www.nrha.us/ and HUD’s locator: https://resources.hud.gov/.
- Utility help: Apply for Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Crisis Fuel via VDSS, and ask about Dominion Energy’s EnergyShare and Virginia Natural Gas assistance.
- Get free Medicare counseling from Virginia’s VICAP: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm.
- Expect waitlists. Apply early, apply to multiple programs, and keep copies of everything.
Where to Start: Norfolk Quick Links (Apply, Call, or Walk In)
Use these “front doors” to connect with several programs at once.
| Need | Best first step | How it helps | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) | Apply on Virginia CommonHelp | One application connects you to multiple benefits | https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/ |
| Local meals, transportation, home help, caregiver support | Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (AAA) | Options counseling, Meals on Wheels, rides, referrals | https://www.ssseva.org/ |
| Rent help, housing vouchers/public housing in Norfolk | Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA) | Public housing, Housing Choice Vouchers (waitlists open periodically) | https://www.nrha.us/ |
| Shelter, legal help, food pantries | 2‑1‑1 Virginia | Live referral specialists for nearby services | https://www.211virginia.org/ |
| Long‑term services & referrals | No Wrong Door Virginia | Centralized resource/referral system | https://nowrongdoorvirginia.org/ |
| Medicare counseling (free) | Virginia’s VICAP | Unbiased help picking plans and reducing costs | https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm |
| Public transit & reduced fares | Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) | Bus, light rail (The Tide), paratransit; reduced fares for seniors | https://gohrt.com/ |
Tip: Keep a folder with your photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Norfolk/VA residency, recent income, bank statements, lease/mortgage, utility bills, and health insurance cards. Most programs will ask for these.
Healthcare and Long‑Term Care
Medicare (age 65+ or qualifying disability)
- What it is: Federal health insurance. You choose Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan; add drug coverage (Part D) and consider Medigap for costs.
- Get help: Free, unbiased counseling through Virginia’s VICAP. They can compare plans and check drug costs.
- Learn more at Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov/
- Free counseling (VICAP): https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm
Virginia Medicaid for Older Adults
- What it is: Health coverage for low‑income seniors, including doctor visits, hospital, prescriptions, nursing home care, and in‑home supports through waivers.
- Apply at CommonHelp: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
- Member info: https://www.coverva.org/ and Virginia DMAS: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/
CCC Plus (Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus)
- What it is: A Medicaid program for people who need long‑term services, either in a facility or at home (personal care, respite, adult day care).
- Details: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/
Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (problems in nursing homes/assisted living)
- Free, confidential help: https://www.elderrightsva.org/
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (for Medicaid members)
- Rides to covered medical appointments: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/
Healthcare at a Glance (Norfolk/Statewide Programs)
| Program | Who it’s for | What it covers | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicare | 65+ or qualifying disability | Hospital, medical, optional drug coverage | https://www.medicare.gov/ |
| VICAP counseling | Any Medicare‑eligible Virginian | Free plan comparisons, appeal help, bill questions | https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm |
| Virginia Medicaid | Low‑income seniors | Full medical coverage; long‑term care | https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/ and https://www.coverva.org/ |
| CCC Plus | Seniors needing LTSS | In‑home personal care, respite, adult day health | https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/ |
| LTC Ombudsman | Residents/families | Complaint resolution, rights in facilities | https://www.elderrightsva.org/ |
Reality check: Medicaid has strict income and resource rules. If you’re over by a little, ask about Medicaid “spenddown” or Medicare Savings Programs (which can pay Part B premiums and cost‑sharing). VICAP or your AAA can help you understand options.
Income, Cash, and Tax Relief
Social Security, SSI, and SSDI
- Apply or manage benefits: https://www.ssa.gov/
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for very low‑income seniors 65+: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
Virginia Auxiliary Grants (AG)
- Helps older, blind, or disabled adults pay for assisted living or adult foster care when financially eligible.
- Info: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ag/
General Relief (local, limited)
- Some localities offer small, short‑term help. Check availability through your local DSS or call 2‑1‑1.
- Program basics: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/gr/
Property Tax Relief (City of Norfolk)
- Many Virginia localities reduce or defer property taxes for older adults with limited income. Contact the City of Norfolk’s tax offices (see the official city website) to ask about “Real Estate Tax Relief for the Elderly or Disabled.”
- City of Norfolk: https://www.norfolk.gov/
- Tip: Bring proof of age, residency, household income, and home ownership. Application windows vary.
Virginia Age Deduction (state income tax)
- Virginia offers an age deduction on your state income tax return (with income limits).
- Details: https://www.tax.virginia.gov/age-deduction
Free Tax Help
- AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide provides free tax preparation (no sales pitch): https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/
Housing, Rent, and Homelessness Prevention
Housing help is limited and often has waitlists. Apply broadly and follow up regularly.
Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA)
- What they do: Public housing and the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program for Norfolk residents.
- Reality check: Waitlists don’t stay open year‑round. Check openings and instructions.
- NRHA: https://www.nrha.us/
HUD Section 202 Senior Housing
- What it is: Affordable apartments for older adults, often with service coordinators.
- How to search: Use HUD’s resource locator and filter for elderly/disabled properties.
- Search: https://resources.hud.gov/
HUD‑Approved Housing Counseling
- Help with renting, buying, foreclosure prevention, and reverse mortgage counseling.
- Virginia counseling: https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/homeownership/seniors
Homelessness and Eviction Prevention
- State hub: Virginia DHCD Homeless and Special Needs Housing programs (local Continuums of Care manage access).
- Info: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/homelessness
- Also call 2‑1‑1 for local entry points and day‑of shelter openings: https://www.211virginia.org/
- Legal help if you’ve received a notice: Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline: https://www.evictionhelpline.org/
VirginiaHousingSearch.com
- Search affordable rentals across Virginia: https://www.virginiahousingsearch.com/
Housing & Home Repair Programs (Quick View)
| Program | Help Provided | Who Manages It | Where to Learn/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Ongoing rent help in private market | NRHA/HUD | https://www.nrha.us/ and HUD locator: https://resources.hud.gov/ |
| Public Housing (Norfolk) | Affordable units owned/managed locally | NRHA | https://www.nrha.us/ |
| HUD Section 202 | Affordable senior apartments | HUD | https://resources.hud.gov/ |
| HUD‑Approved Counseling | Renting, buying, foreclosure, HECM | HUD agencies | https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/homeownership/seniors |
| Homeless Prevention | Diversion, arrears, case management | DHCD/Local CoC | https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/homelessness |
Reality check: The statewide COVID‑era Rent Relief Program has ended. Today, rental assistance is local (CoC programs, city funds, charities). If you get a “pay or quit,” call your landlord, 2‑1‑1, and the Eviction Legal Helpline the same day.
Home Repair, Weatherization, and Accessibility
Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program (EHARP)
- What it is: Fixes health/safety hazards (e.g., unsafe wiring, leaking roofs, failing plumbing) and installs accessibility features (ramps, grab bars) for low‑income households.
- Administered by Virginia DHCD through local partners.
- Details: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/eharp
USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504)
- Grants (up to 10,000)forverylow‑incomehomeownersage62+toremovehealth/safetyhazards;low‑interestloans(upto10,000) for very low‑income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; low‑interest loans (up to 40,000) may also be available.
- Note: Grants may be recaptured if you sell the home within 3 years.
- Virginia info: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/va
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
- Free energy‑saving upgrades: insulation, air sealing, HVAC safety checks.
- Virginia WAP: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
Local nonprofits (often free or low‑cost, with waiting lists)
- Habitat for Humanity (critical home repairs, accessibility; may require homeowner participation): https://www.habitat.org/
- Rebuilding Together (free critical repairs via local affiliates): https://rebuildingtogether.org/find-your-local-affiliate
- Norfolk area affiliate: Rebuilding Together Tidewater serves South Hampton Roads.
Tip: If your home is unsafe (no heat, risk of falls), tell your AAA and ask them to note “health and safety hazard” on referrals. It can help prioritize your case.
Utility and Energy Bill Help (Norfolk)
Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Fuel Assistance: Helps with heating costs.
- Crisis Assistance: Emergencies like no heat, cutoffs, broken systems.
- Cooling Assistance: Summer electric bills and AC repair/replacement for eligible households; seniors 60+ often meet age criteria plus other rules.
- Program windows and how to apply: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
Dominion Energy Virginia – EnergyShare
- Bill payment assistance and weatherization for eligible customers, year‑round as funds allow.
- Details: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare
Virginia Natural Gas – Assistance Programs
- Payment plans and assistance options for gas customers (often coordinated with Dollar Energy Fund/Salvation Army).
- Learn more: https://www.virginianaturalgas.com/residential/billing-and-payment/assistance-programs
HRSD H2O (Help to Others) Program
- Charitable assistance that can help eligible Hampton Roads customers with wastewater bills (and, in some cases, water) through HRSD and local partners.
- Program information: https://www.hrsd.com/help-to-others-h2o-program
Ask your water utility about hardship funds, medical protections, and budget billing. If you’re unsure who bills you, call the City of Norfolk or check your last bill (City of Norfolk Utilities and HRSD usually appear on statements).
Energy & Utilities: What to Apply for and When
| Program | What it covers | When to apply | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP Fuel Assistance | Heating bills | Fall | https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/ |
| LIHEAP Crisis Assistance | No heat, cutoffs, repair | Winter/rolling emergencies | https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/ |
| LIHEAP Cooling Assistance | Summer electric/AC | Summer | https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/ |
| Dominion EnergyShare | Bill pay & weatherization | Year‑round (as funds allow) | https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare |
| Virginia Natural Gas Aid | Gas bill assistance | Year‑round (as funds allow) | https://www.virginianaturalgas.com/residential/billing-and-payment/assistance-programs |
| HRSD H2O Program | Wastewater (and sometimes water) | Year‑round (as funds allow) | https://www.hrsd.com/help-to-others-h2o-program |
Reality check: Utility funds can run out, especially late in the season. Apply early. If you have medical equipment at home, ask your utility about medical certification protections.
Food and Nutrition
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Out‑of‑pocket medical costs can sometimes increase your SNAP benefit for older adults.
- Learn/apply: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi or https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
Meals on Wheels & Congregate Meals (Norfolk)
- Home‑delivered meals for those who qualify; group meals at senior centers.
- Contact Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia: https://www.ssseva.org/
Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore
- Find pantries, mobile markets, and application help for SNAP.
- Website: https://foodbankonline.org/
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (Farm Market Fresh)
- Seasonal checks to buy fresh produce from participating farmers.
- Program info: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/sfmnp.htm
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
- Monthly USDA “Senior Food Box” with staple foods for eligible older adults; administered locally by food banks.
- Program info (USDA): https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/commodity-supplemental-food-program
- Check with Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia to see if CSFP is available in your area: https://foodbankonline.org/
Food Programs at a Glance
| Program | What you get | Who runs it | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Monthly EBT groceries | VDSS/USDA | https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi |
| Meals on Wheels | Home‑delivered meals | Senior Services of Southeastern VA | https://www.ssseva.org/ |
| Congregate Meals | Hot meals at senior sites | Senior Services of Southeastern VA | https://www.ssseva.org/ |
| Senior Farmers’ Market | Produce checks | DARS/AAAs | https://www.vda.virginia.gov/sfmnp.htm |
| CSFP | Monthly food box | Local food banks/USDA | https://foodbankonline.org/ and USDA info above |
Tip: If you’re over 60 and have high medical costs, report them when applying for SNAP. It can raise your benefit.
Transportation (Norfolk & Region)
Hampton Roads Transit (HRT)
- Buses, light rail (The Tide), ferry, and paratransit (HRT ACCESS).
- Seniors can apply for reduced fares; paratransit is available for those who qualify under ADA.
- Fares and reduced fare info: https://gohrt.com/
Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation
- Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members.
- How to schedule: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/
AAA Rides and Voucher Programs
- Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia may assist with medical rides or coordinate volunteer drivers where available.
- Contact: https://www.ssseva.org/
State Transit Directory
- Find local transit across Virginia: https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/locate-transit
Transportation Options: Quick View
| Program | Who it’s for | What it offers | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| HRT Reduced Fare | Seniors and eligible riders | Lower fares on HRT buses/light rail | https://gohrt.com/ |
| HRT ACCESS (Paratransit) | Riders meeting ADA criteria | Door‑to‑door paratransit service | https://gohrt.com/ |
| Medicaid NEMT | Medicaid members | Rides to covered medical visits | https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/ |
| AAA Transportation | Norfolk seniors | Limited rides, referrals, vouchers | https://www.ssseva.org/ |
Tip: Ask about exact eligibility and how far in advance you must book. Have your appointment details, address, and any mobility needs ready when scheduling rides.
Caregivers and Dementia Support
Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher Program
- Reimburses eligible family caregivers for short breaks from caregiving (when funding is open).
- Info and availability: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/respiteservices.htm
Dementia Capable Virginia
- Free training, roadmaps, and planning tools for families and providers.
- Resources: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/dementiacapableva.htm
Alzheimer’s Association
- 24/7 Helpline: 1‑800‑272‑3900; support groups, education, and care consultations.
- Learn more: https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline
AAA Caregiver Support (Norfolk)
- Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia offers caregiver information, respite referrals, and options counseling.
- Contact: https://www.ssseva.org/
Reality check: Respite funds are limited and often open/close during the year. Ask to be added to interest lists and about adult day health options through Medicaid’s CCC Plus.
Dental, Vision, and Hearing
Virginia Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services)
- Free comprehensive dental treatment for eligible older adults with disabilities or fragile health; long waitlists are common.
- Apply: https://dentallifeline.org/virginia/
Virginia Dental Association Foundation – Mission of Mercy (MOM) Clinics
- Free pop‑up dental clinics around Virginia.
- Schedule: https://www.vdaf.org/
VCU School of Dentistry (Reduced‑fee clinics)
- Teaching clinics that offer care at lower cost.
- Info: https://dentistry.vcu.edu/patients/
Lions Clubs of Virginia (vision/hearing assistance)
- Local clubs may help with glasses or hearing aids; support varies by club.
- Find clubs: https://www.lionsofva.org/
Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (VDDHH)
- Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program (phones, alerting devices); Virginia Relay.
- Equipment: https://www.vddhh.org/tedp/
- Relay services: https://www.vddhh.org/relay-services/
Tip: Ask your local health department and free clinics about dental days. For glasses, also ask community health centers and Lions Clubs.
Internet and Phone Discounts
Lifeline
- Federal program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for eligible low‑income households.
- Learn more: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
Virginia Relay
- Relay services for individuals with hearing or speech disabilities.
- Info: https://www.vddhh.org/relay-services/
Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended new funding in 2024. Ask your provider if they offer their own low‑income plans.
Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Fraud
Legal Aid
- Statewide portal to find your local office and apply online: https://www.valegalaid.org/
- Local provider serving Norfolk: Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia (check coverage via the statewide portal above).
Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
- Help spot and report Medicare fraud and billing errors.
- Info: https://www.virginiasmp.org/
Virginia Attorney General – Consumer Protection
- File complaints and learn about scams that target older adults.
- Info: https://www.oag.state.va.us/consumer-protection
Tip: Never pay upfront for “grant” help. Government programs do not charge application fees.
Inclusive Resources
Veterans and Military Families (Norfolk Region)
- VA Health, Pensions, Aid & Attendance (helps pay for in‑home care or assisted living): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- VA Housing Assistance (including adaptations for disabilities): https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/
- Find VA medical centers and clinics: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
Norfolk‑area note: Hampton VA Medical Center serves many South Hampton Roads veterans; confirm eligibility and services via the VA locator above.
LGBTQ+ Older Adults
- SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (1‑877‑360‑LGBT): https://www.sageusa.org/
- Equality Virginia (advocacy and resources; provider trainings): https://equalityvirginia.org/
- Ask your AAA about LGBTQ+‑affirming providers. VICAP can help compare Medicare Advantage plans for network fit and coverage.
Seniors with Disabilities
- DARS (Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services): Vocational rehab, disability resources, caregiver support. https://www.dars.virginia.gov/
- Centers for Independent Living (CILs) directory: https://www.vasilc.org/cils/
- Local CIL for South Hampton Roads: Endependence Center (serves Norfolk and region).
- Medicaid waivers and CCC Plus for in‑home support: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/
Tribal and Native Elders
- Title VI Native American Aging Programs (nutrition/supportive services): https://acl.gov/programs/american-indian-alaska-native-and-native-hawaiian-programs/title-vi-grants
- Indian Health Service: https://www.ihs.gov/
- Virginia Tribal information and contacts via the Commonwealth: https://www.virginia.gov/agencies/secretary-of-the-commonwealth/
Rural Seniors (If you move outside the city or support family nearby)
- USDA Rural Development (home repairs, rural rentals): https://www.rd.usda.gov/va
- Rural rental properties with subsidy: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/multi-family-housing-programs/multifamily-housing-property-search
- Transit in rural regions (directory): https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/locate-transit
- Nearby rural AAA examples: Bay Aging (Middle Peninsula & Northern Neck): https://bayaging.org/
Reality check: Rural programs can be spread out and underfunded. Apply early and lean on 2‑1‑1, your AAA, and local churches while you wait.
Step‑by‑Step: Get the Most Help Fast
- Call your AAA (Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia) and ask for an options counseling appointment. Bring your documents.
- Apply on CommonHelp for SNAP, Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP).
- If your power or gas is at risk, call your utility right away to ask about medical protections and payment plans. Then apply for LIHEAP Crisis Assistance and company programs (EnergyShare, VNG assistance).
- If housing is unstable, check NRHA for voucher/public housing updates, add your name to HUD Section 202 waitlists, and call 2‑1‑1 for your local homeless assistance entry point.
- For home safety issues, apply to EHARP, USDA 504, and Weatherization. Ask AAA to flag health/safety hazards.
- On Medicare? Call VICAP to review drug plans and see if you qualify for Medicare Savings Programs or Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy).
- Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- Caregivers: Apply for the Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher (when open) and ask your AAA about adult day health and in‑home options via CCC Plus.
Program Realities, Tips, and Warnings
- Expect waitlists for housing and home repairs. Apply to multiple programs and keep a calendar of follow‑ups.
- Keep copies of everything you submit. If denied, ask for the appeal steps and deadlines.
- Report changes (income, address, hospitalization) quickly to avoid overpayments or benefit interruptions.
- Use only official websites (.gov, .org). Avoid companies that charge to “help” with applications.
- For Medicare and Medicaid billing issues, contact Virginia SMP: https://www.virginiasmp.org/
Resources by Region (Norfolk & Hampton Roads)
- Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (Area Agency on Aging): Meals, transportation, options counseling, caregiver support. https://www.ssseva.org/
- Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA): Public housing and vouchers. https://www.nrha.us/
- 2‑1‑1 Virginia: Regional shelters, rental aid, food pantries, utility help. https://www.211virginia.org/
- Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore: Food assistance and SNAP outreach. https://foodbankonline.org/
- Hampton Roads Transit (HRT): Transit, reduced fares, paratransit. https://gohrt.com/
- Salvation Army Hampton Roads (seasonal and emergency assistance; varies by site): https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/
- Virginia Homeless and Special Needs Housing (DHCD): https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/homelessness
- Legal Aid (statewide portal for local offices): https://www.valegalaid.org/
Tip: Many Norfolk services are coordinated across Hampton Roads. If one door is closed, ask about a sister agency nearby (Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach) that may have an opening.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where can I apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and energy help in one place?
A: Use Virginia’s CommonHelp portal: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/. If you need help applying, contact Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia: https://www.ssseva.org/.
Q: I’m on Medicare. Can I also get Medicaid help in Virginia?
A: Yes, if you meet income and asset limits. Medicaid can pay your Medicare premiums and, in some cases, help with long‑term services. Start at https://www.coverva.org/ or talk with VICAP: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm.
Q: My power might be shut off. What should I do today?
A: Call your utility immediately to ask about medical protections and payment plans. Apply for LIHEAP Crisis Assistance at https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/. If you’re a Dominion customer, check EnergyShare: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare. Also call 2‑1‑1.
Q: Are there programs to reduce prescription costs?
A: Ask VICAP to review your Part D plan for lower‑cost options: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm. Also apply for Medicare Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/.
Q: How can I avoid a nursing home and stay at home?
A: Ask about Medicaid’s CCC Plus program for in‑home services: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/. Your AAA can also connect you to personal care and home‑delivered meals.
Q: Is there property tax relief in Norfolk for seniors?
A: Many Virginia localities offer relief or deferrals. Visit the City of Norfolk site and contact the tax office to ask about “Real Estate Tax Relief for the Elderly or Disabled.” https://www.norfolk.gov/
Q: I can’t afford dental care. Where should I look first?
A: Check Donated Dental Services (Virginia Dental Lifeline Network): https://dentallifeline.org/virginia/, the VDAF Mission of Mercy clinics: https://www.vdaf.org/, and reduced‑fee school clinics like VCU: https://dentistry.vcu.edu/patients/.
Q: How do I find senior apartments in Norfolk?
A: Use HUD’s resource locator and filter for elderly/disabled properties: https://resources.hud.gov/. Also watch NRHA announcements: https://www.nrha.us/ and search https://www.virginiahousingsearch.com/.
Q: Who can help me pick a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan?
A: Virginia’s VICAP provides free, unbiased counseling: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm.
Disclaimer
Program rules, funding, and eligibility change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program before you apply. This guide is general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.
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: December 2025
- Sources Verified: December 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.
About the Authors