Grants for Seniors in Detroit

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Detroit, Michigan (2026 Guide)

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Detroit seniors can combine city, county, state, and federal programs to lower housing, utility, food, healthcare, and transportation costs.
  • Start with local help: Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA) can screen you for multiple programs and help with forms.
  • For housing taxes and bills, use Detroit’s Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE), Wayne County’s Pay As You Stay (PAYS), and the Detroit Water Lifeline Plan.
  • Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some services. Apply early, keep documents handy, and follow up.
  • Use MI Bridges to apply for state benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, State Emergency Relief) in one place.

If You Need Emergency Help

  • Life-threatening emergency: Call 911.
  • Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 (24/7).
  • Any urgent need (food, shelter, utilities): Call 2-1-1 or visit Michigan 2-1-1. They will direct you to the closest help.
  • Adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Call Michigan Adult Protective Services at 1-855-444-3911. Info: MDHHS Adult Protective Services.
  • Eviction or homelessness risk: Contact City of Detroit Homelessness Solutions for coordinated entry and shelter access, and call 2-1-1.
  • Utilities shutoff or medical equipment at risk: Apply for State Emergency Relief at MI Bridges and call your utility’s assistance line (see Utility Help section below).

Quick Aid Snapshot for Detroit Seniors

Need Program What It Helps With Who It’s For Where to Apply / Learn More
Property taxes HOPE (Homeowners Property Exemption) Lowers/waives current-year City property taxes Low- to moderate-income Detroit homeowners Detroit HOPE application & info
Past-due taxes Pay As You Stay (PAYS) Reduces delinquent property taxes and interest Homeowners approved for HOPE Wayne County Treasurer PAYS
Water bill DWSD Lifeline Plan Fixed affordable monthly water bill + debt forgiveness Income-eligible Detroit households Detroit Water & Sewerage Lifeline Plan
Energy bill DTE LSP + State Emergency Relief Lower fixed electric/gas payments + past-due help Income-eligible customers DTE Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan and MI Bridges (SER)
Food SNAP Monthly food benefits on EBT card Low-income adults 60+ MDHHS SNAP info & apply
Monthly food box CSFP via Focus: HOPE Senior Food Box with staples 60+ and income-eligible Focus: HOPE – Food for Seniors
Meals at home Meals on Wheels (DAAA) Hot or frozen meals + safety check Homebound adults 60+ DAAA Nutrition & Meals
Healthcare Medicaid & Medicare Savings Programs Health coverage and help with Medicare costs Income-eligible seniors Apply on MI Bridges
Medicare counseling MMAP Free, unbiased plan help All Medicare beneficiaries Michigan MMAP counseling
Housing vouchers Detroit Housing Commission Section 8 and public housing Income-eligible renters Detroit Housing Commission
Broad benefit access DAAA Screening and applications for multiple programs Adults 60+ in Detroit area Detroit Area Agency on Aging

Reality check: Many programs have waitlists, deadlines, and paperwork requirements. Start early, keep copies of documents, and track your application dates.

How to Use This Guide

  • Use the Quick Aid Snapshot above to find the right starting points.
  • Apply through MI Bridges for state benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, State Emergency Relief) at MI Bridges.
  • For city programs (HOPE, Lifeline, housing), use the City or agency links listed in each section.
  • If you get stuck, call the Detroit Area Agency on Aging at 313-446-4444 or visit DAAA.

Detroit Cost Relief: Taxes, Utilities, Phone/Internet

Property Tax Relief

  • Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE): Reduces or waives current-year property taxes for eligible Detroit homeowners with limited income. Apply annually and provide proof of income and residency. Learn more and apply: Detroit HOPE.
  • Pay As You Stay (PAYS): If you qualify for HOPE and have delinquent taxes, PAYS can lower past-due balances and interest, and set an affordable payment plan with the Wayne County Treasurer. Details: Wayne County PAYS.
  • Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit: State credit for homeowners and renters; claimed on your Michigan tax return. Info and forms: Michigan Department of Treasury – Homestead Property Tax Credit.

Tip: Many seniors miss the HOPE and Homestead credits because they think they “don’t file taxes.” These credits can be refunded even if you owe no state income tax.

Water and Sewer Bills

  • DWSD Lifeline Plan: Offers a fixed, affordable monthly bill and forgives past-due amounts for income-eligible households. Enrollment support is available through nonprofit partners. Check eligibility and how to enroll: Detroit Water & Sewerage Department – Lifeline.

Reality check: Slots can fill. Keep trying if you can’t get through on the first call and ask a local partner for help completing the application.

Electric and Gas Bills

  • DTE Energy Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP): Lowers your monthly payment and can reduce past-due balances if you make on-time payments. See options and partners (such as THAW) here: DTE LSP. Assistance partners include The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW).
  • State Emergency Relief (SER): One-time help for heat/electric bills, shut-off notices, and some furnace repairs. Apply via MI Bridges.
  • Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): State-funded help that often coordinates with SER and LSP. Info: Michigan Public Service Commission – Energy Assistance.

Note: Apply in the fall for winter energy help. Funding can run out mid-season.

Phone and Internet

  • Lifeline Program: A federal discount on phone or internet for low-income households. Learn more and apply: Lifeline Support Program.
  • Check with your phone/internet provider about senior or income-based plans. Program availability can change—ask before you sign up.

Food and Nutrition in Detroit

  • SNAP (Bridge Card): Monthly benefits for groceries; use at supermarkets, many corner stores, and online at major retailers. Apply: MDHHS Food Assistance Program or through MI Bridges.
  • Restaurant Meals Program: In Michigan, certain SNAP users can buy prepared meals at participating restaurants. Seniors 60+ on SNAP may qualify. See participating locations: MDHHS – Restaurant Meals Program.
  • Meals on Wheels (DAAA): Nutritious meals with a friendly safety check for homebound older adults. Start here: DAAA Nutrition & Meals.
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) – Focus: HOPE: Monthly shelf-stable “Senior Food Box.” Check eligibility and pick-up locations: Focus: HOPE – Food for Seniors.
  • Food banks and pantries: Gleaners Community Food Bank supplies many Detroit pantries and senior distributions: Gleaners Food Finder. Forgotten Harvest also supports area pantries and mobile distributions: Forgotten Harvest.

Reality check: SNAP helps, but the benefit may not last all month. Combine SNAP with CSFP and local pantry distributions for steady coverage.

Healthcare, Medicare, and Medicaid

  • Medicaid for Seniors: Helps with doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and more for income-eligible adults. Apply or renew via MI Bridges.
  • Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI): Can pay some or all of your Medicare premiums and cost-sharing if you meet income/resource rules. Apply via MI Bridges.
  • Free Medicare counseling (MMAP): Compare Medicare Advantage/Part D plans, check Extra Help, resolve billing issues. Call 1-800-803-7174 or visit MMAP.
  • Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Sliding-fee primary care, dental at some clinics, and help with benefits:
  • Behavioral health: The Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network coordinates mental health and substance use services. 24/7 Access line and resources: DWIHN.

Tip: Bring your medication list and insurance cards to every appointment. Ask clinics about sliding fees and pharmacy savings.

Dental Care (Low-Cost and Free Options)

Reality check: Dental programs book up fast. If you’re placed on a waitlist, ask to be notified of cancellations and check multiple clinics.

Housing Help in Detroit

Renters

Homeowners

  • HOPE and PAYS (see Tax Relief above).
  • Detroit Home Repair Fund and related city repair programs: Grants/repairs for eligible homeowners (availability varies; some programs prioritize seniors). Learn more from the City’s Housing & Revitalization Department and partner portals:
  • Weatherization and energy efficiency: Ask your utility about no-cost upgrades and check 2-1-1 for local weatherization providers.
  • Foreclosure prevention: Get free HUD-approved counseling. Start with MSHDA housing counseling and HUD Counselor Finder.

Reality check: Many repair and voucher programs use lotteries or limited application windows. Subscribe to agency updates and apply the day applications open.

Housing Options at a Glance

Option What It Is Main Pros Main Cons Where to Start
Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) You pay ~30% of income; voucher covers rest Can choose your unit if landlord accepts Long waits; inspections; landlord must accept Detroit Housing Commission
Public Housing Subsidized apartments owned by housing authority Lower rent; onsite management Limited units; site rules; waitlists Detroit Housing Commission
Affordable (Tax-Credit) Housing Below-market rents in specific buildings Faster than Section 8 in some cases Income limits; rent still set by area rates Search via MSHDA Affordable Rentals
Senior Housing (62+) Age-restricted communities with services Social setting; safety features May still have waiting lists Ask DAAA; check MSHDA listings

In-Home Care, Long-Term Care, and Caregiver Support

  • MI Choice Waiver (Home- and Community-Based Services): Medicaid waiver that can provide in-home aides, adult day care, respite, home modifications, and more to help you remain at home if you meet nursing facility level of care and financial rules. Learn more and start your screening via MDHHS – MI Choice Waiver. DAAA can help with referrals: DAAA.
  • Home-Delivered Meals and nutrition counseling: DAAA Nutrition & Meals.
  • Caregiver support and respite: DAAA offers support groups, training, and respite assistance. Contact DAAA Caregiver Support.
  • Nursing home and assisted living guidance: For comparisons and resident rights, contact the Michigan Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Michigan LTCO or call the statewide number listed on their site.

Reality check: Getting MI Choice takes time (assessments, documentation). Start the process before a crisis if you can.

Transportation and Mobility

  • DDOT (Detroit Department of Transportation): Reduced senior fares on buses; paratransit available for riders with disabilities. Routes, reduced fare info, and paratransit details: DDOT.
  • SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation): Connects Detroit with suburbs; senior discounts; connector services in some areas. Routes and fares: SMART.
  • QLINE Streetcar (Woodward Corridor): Senior discounts available; accessibility features on board. Info: QLINE Detroit.
  • Detroit People Mover (Downtown loop): Reduced senior fares. Info: Detroit People Mover.
  • myride2 (Southeast Michigan): Trip planning and booking help for older adults and people with disabilities. Call 855-697-4332 or visit myride2.
  • Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation: If you have Medicaid, transportation to covered medical appointments is available. How it works: MDHHS – Medical Transportation.

Tip: Apply for reduced-fare IDs before you need them. Keep your mobility device measurements handy when booking paratransit.

Transportation at a Glance

Service Discount for Seniors What It Covers Where to Learn More
DDOT Buses Reduced fares Citywide fixed routes; paratransit DDOT
SMART Senior discounts Regional bus routes; some curb-to-curb SMART
QLINE Senior discounts Woodward Ave. streetcar QLINE
People Mover Senior discounts Downtown elevated loop People Mover
Medicaid NEMT No cost to eligible Medical appointments only MDHHS – Medical Transportation

Income Support and Money Management

  • Social Security and SSI: Apply, appeal, or manage benefits online at SSA.gov. To find your nearest office: SSA Office Locator.
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash help for very low-income seniors 65+ or those with disabilities. Learn more: Social Security – SSI.
  • State Disability Assistance (SDA): Cash assistance for some residents who don’t qualify for other programs. Details and application via MI Bridges.
  • Free budgeting and credit counseling: HUD-approved housing counseling agencies also assist with budgeting. Find a counselor: HUD Counselor Finder.

Avoiding Scams and Fraud

  • Common scams in Detroit: utility impostors demanding gift cards, “guaranteed” rental approvals, property tax “helpers” charging high fees, Medicare re-enrollment scams.
  • How to verify:
    • For utilities: Call your provider using the number on your bill.
    • For benefits: Call MDHHS at the number listed on MI Bridges or DAAA at DAAA.
    • For contractors: Verify licenses with Michigan LARA: Verify a License.
  • Report scams:

What Documents You’ll Need Most Often

Document Why It’s Needed
Michigan ID or driver’s license Identity and residency
Social Security card or benefit letter Income proof
Recent bank statements (last 3 months) Asset/income verification
Proof of address (utility bill, lease, tax bill) Residency and housing verification
Health insurance cards (Medicare/Medicaid) Healthcare enrollment
Utility bills/shutoff notices Energy/water assistance
Property tax bill and deed (homeowners) HOPE/PAYS and repair programs
Medical expense receipts SNAP deductions; Medicaid “spenddown”

Tip: Make a “benefits folder.” Keep paper copies and take photos on your phone.

Special Considerations and Inclusive Resources

Veteran Seniors

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

Seniors with Disabilities

American Indian/Alaska Native Elders (Urban Indian Resources)

  • American Indian Health & Family Services of Southeastern Michigan (Detroit): primary care, behavioral health, elder programs: AIHFS.
  • Elders may also qualify for CSFP and SNAP; ask AIHFS or apply via MI Bridges.

Limited English / Immigrant Seniors

  • Arabic-speaking and other language assistance is common in metro Detroit.
    • ACCESS (Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services): health, benefits, and social services support: ACCESS.
    • Ask DAAA for translation help: DAAA.

Rural Seniors in Outer Wayne County

While this guide focuses on Detroit, seniors in surrounding and downriver communities may be served by different agencies:

  • The Senior Alliance (AAA 1-C) – Western and Southern Wayne County: The Senior Alliance.
  • Transportation differs outside Detroit; check SMART and myride2.

Applying Without the Runaround: Steps and Tips

  1. Create an account at MI Bridges. You can apply for SNAP, Medicaid, State Emergency Relief, and more.
  2. Call DAAA (313-446-4444) to ask for a benefits screening and help with Meals, MI Choice, caregiver support, and local resources.
  3. For city-specific help (HOPE, Lifeline): use the City of Detroit links above and call if you need in-person assistance.
  4. Track everything: write down application dates, confirmation numbers, and the name of the person you spoke with.
  5. Follow up if you don’t hear back within two weeks.

Common Roadblocks (and Fixes)

Roadblock What To Do
Can’t find documents Ask Social Security for a benefit letter; request duplicate ID from SOS; ask bank for statements; call DAAA for help
Online applications feel overwhelming Use library/senior center computers; ask a family member; ask DAAA or a clinic social worker to help
Denied but think you qualify File an appeal by the deadline; attach new proof; ask Lakeshore Legal Aid or DAAA for help
Transportation Use myride2 for ride planning; apply for reduced-fare IDs; ask your clinic if they have transportation assistance

Program Reality Checks

  • Housing vouchers: Waits are often long. Get on lists and update your contact info regularly.
  • Home repairs: Grants are limited and may prioritize seniors, veterans, or specific neighborhoods. Watch for short application windows.
  • Energy/water help: Funds can run out. Apply early and combine DWSD Lifeline, SER, MEAP, and utility programs where possible.
  • Meals on Wheels: High demand. Ask about frozen meals as a stop-gap.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where should I start if I need several types of help?
A: Call the Detroit Area Agency on Aging (313-446-4444) for a benefits screening and help with forms, and create an account at MI Bridges to apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and State Emergency Relief.

Q: I own my home but can’t afford taxes and repairs. What can I do?
A: Apply for HOPE to lower or waive current taxes and PAYS for past-due bills. Then check the Detroit Home Repair Fund and City repair programs, and ask DTE about free weatherization.

Q: My energy bill is past due and I got a shutoff notice.
A: Apply for State Emergency Relief at MI Bridges, contact DTE LSP, and call 2-1-1 for local funds. Have your account number and shutoff notice ready.

Q: Can I get meals delivered to my home?
A: If you’re 60+ and homebound, contact DAAA Meals. There may be a waitlist; ask about frozen meals and pantry deliveries in the meantime.

Q: How do I find senior or subsidized apartments in Detroit?
A: Check Detroit Housing Commission for public housing and vouchers when open, and search MSHDA Affordable Rentals for other subsidized units. Call buildings directly to ask about waitlists.

Q: I can’t afford my prescriptions.
A: Ask your doctor about generics, check if your clinic is a 340B pharmacy site (lower prices), apply for Medicaid if eligible via MI Bridges, and have an MMAP counselor review your Medicare Part D plan at MMAP.

Q: Are there special supports for veterans and LGBTQ+ seniors?
A: Yes. Veterans should contact MVAA and the Detroit VA Medical Center. LGBTQ+ seniors can reach out to SAGE Metro Detroit for programs and referrals.

Q: I don’t use computers. Can I still apply?
A: Yes. Call DAAA, visit a library or senior center for help, or apply by phone where allowed (SNAP/Medicaid via MI Bridges helpline). Many clinics and nonprofits will help you submit applications.

Resources by Area (Detroit & Nearby)

  • Citywide/Detroit Core:
  • Hamtramck & Highland Park: Served by DAAA; use city links for bills/taxes and DAAA for aging programs.
  • Grosse Pointe/Harper Woods: Contact DAAA for aging services; municipal offices handle local property matters.
  • Downriver & Western Wayne (outside Detroit): Check The Senior Alliance (AAA 1-C) for services in your community and SMART for transit.

Community centers and senior hubs:

Food:

Legal:

Useful Program Tables

Utility Help – What Fits Your Situation

Situation Program(s) Action
Owe past-due water bill DWSD Lifeline Plan Apply for Lifeline; ask about arrears forgiveness: DWSD Lifeline
Owe past-due energy bill State Emergency Relief + DTE LSP Apply at MI Bridges and enroll in DTE LSP
Need lower monthly bills long-term Lifeline + LSP + MEAP Combine programs and keep up with recertifications
Furnace broken or unsafe SER/Weatherization Apply via MI Bridges and call 2-1-1 for repair/referral

Top City/State Applications for Detroit Seniors

Program Where to Apply Notes
SNAP (food) MI Bridges Phone interview usually required
Medicaid & MSP MI Bridges Bring bank statements and income letters
State Emergency Relief (SER) MI Bridges For utility crises, rent, appliances/furnace in some cases
HOPE (tax exemption) Detroit HOPE Annual re-application
DWSD Lifeline DWSD Lifeline Enrollment help available via partners
DHC Housing Detroit Housing Commission Waitlists open/close

Senior-Friendly Transit

Pass/Program How It Helps Where to Get It
DDOT Senior Reduced Fare Lower bus fares in Detroit DDOT Fares & Passes
SMART Senior Discounts Lower regional fares SMART Fares
myride2 Trip planning and scheduling help myride2, 855-697-4332

Real-World Examples

  • Example: A retired Detroit homeowner on Social Security applied for HOPE to reduce current taxes, then enrolled in PAYS to manage old tax debt. She also joined the DWSD Lifeline Plan to get a fixed water bill and used MI Bridges to request State Emergency Relief for an energy shutoff notice. This combination stabilized her monthly bills and stopped collections.
  • Example: A couple in an East Side apartment joined SNAP via MI Bridges, picked up a monthly Senior Food Box at Focus: HOPE, and got Meals on Wheels during recovery from surgery. They used myride2 to get to medical appointments and called MMAP to switch to a better Medicare Part D plan for their medications.

These are common paths many Detroit seniors successfully use.

Citations and Data Notes

For statewide context, Michigan has 1.93 million adults 65+ and about 10.6% living below poverty level (American Community Survey 2023). Use the U.S. Census QuickFacts site for the latest Detroit-specific population and age data: Census QuickFacts – Detroit city, Michigan.

Program rules change. Use the official links in each section for current eligibility, benefit levels, and application windows.

Disclaimer

Programs, amounts, and eligibility rules change. Always confirm details with the official agency links provided. This guide is for information only and is not legal, tax, or benefits 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.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.