Grants for Seniors in Memphis

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Memphis, Tennessee

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

Key takeaways

  • Start with the local Area Agency on Aging & Disability (Aging Commission of the Mid‑South). One call can screen you for meals, in‑home help, caregiver support, transportation, and more. Use the state AAAD locator to get the Memphis office details: Find your Area Agency on Aging & Disability.
  • For health costs, use free Medicare counseling (SHIP) and ask about programs that pay Medicare premiums (Medicare Savings Programs) and drug costs (Extra Help). If you need long‑term care at home, ask about TennCare CHOICES.
  • Memphis has strong local help: Meals on Wheels and emergency services via MIFA, senior transit through MATA and MATAplus, and energy help through LIHEAP and utility hardship programs.
  • Housing support includes Section 8 vouchers and public housing through local housing agencies, plus home safety repairs via THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly and accessibility repairs from Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis.
  • Be ready with documents: ID, proof of Tennessee residency, Social Security number, income/assets, medical expenses, and housing/utility bills. Expect waitlists. You have appeal rights if denied.

If you need emergency help

Quick reference: who to call

Need Who to contact Where to learn more
Police / ambulance / fire 911 —
Mental health crisis 988 988lifeline.org
Elder abuse / neglect Adult Protective Services TN DHS APS
Local food / shelter / utilities 2‑1‑1 211 Tennessee
Domestic/sexual violence (Memphis) Family Safety Center Family Safety Center Memphis
Veteran crisis 988 (press 1) Veterans Crisis Line

How to use this Memphis guide

This is a plain‑language, step‑by‑step roundup of programs that lower costs for Memphis seniors (city of Memphis and greater Shelby County). We link to official Tennessee, federal, and reputable local sites. Rules and funding can change. Expect paperwork and, sometimes, waitlists. Use free counselors (SHIP, AAAD) to avoid mistakes and scams.

Reality check: Programs often vary by county or zip code. When in doubt, call your AAAD or 2‑1‑1 to confirm a program serves your address.

Start here: the Aging Commission of the Mid‑South (Memphis AAAD)

The AAAD for Memphis is the Aging Commission of the Mid‑South (serving Shelby, Fayette, Lauderdale, and Tipton). They screen you for multiple programs with one conversation and help with applications.

What they can connect you to:

  • Information & Assistance: A guided review of your needs, benefits, and local resources. Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging – Programs
  • Home & Community‑Based Services (OPTIONS and Title III‑B): Personal care, homemaker help, and home‑delivered meals for older adults who don’t qualify for TennCare. HCBS programs overview
  • Family Caregiver support (NFCSP) and Lifespan Respite: Training, counseling, and respite breaks for family caregivers. Caregiving programs
  • Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help with concerns in nursing homes and assisted living. Ombudsman program

Tip: Before you call, list your medications, doctors, and daily living needs (bathing, dressing, meals). It helps the AAAD match services faster.

Health coverage and cost‑savings for Memphis seniors

Free Medicare counseling (SHIP)

  • What it does: Unbiased help comparing Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans; screens you for cost‑savings like MSPs and Extra Help; checks drug formularies; explains enrollment rules.
  • Who qualifies: Anyone with Medicare (or nearing 65).
  • Where to start: Tennessee SHIP – Medicare Counseling

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)

  • What they do: May pay your Part B premium (and sometimes other Medicare costs) if your income/resources meet limits.
  • Who qualifies: Medicare enrollees with limited income and resources, screened by TennCare.
  • Where to start: TennCare – Medicare Savings Programs

Extra Help (Part D Low‑Income Subsidy)

TennCare Medicaid and CHOICES in Long‑Term Services & Supports

  • What it does: TennCare provides healthcare for low‑income adults; CHOICES covers in‑home supports, community‑based services, or nursing facility care for those who meet medical and financial rules.
  • Who qualifies: Income, assets, and level‑of‑care tests apply.
  • Where to start: TennCare Medicaid eligibility and TennCare CHOICES (LTSS)

PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

  • What it does: A full‑service care model (Medicare + Medicaid) helping eligible seniors remain at home instead of a nursing home.
  • Availability: Limited to certain counties/zip codes. Ask if Memphis is covered.
  • Learn more: Medicare – PACE overview and contact TennCare or the AAAD to check local availability.

Dental, vision, and hearing

  • Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): Volunteer dentists for seniors with disabilities or fragile health. Apply in Tennessee
  • UT Health Science Center College of Dentistry (Memphis): Low‑cost training clinics. UTHSC Dentistry Clinics
  • EyeCare America: Exams for eligible seniors. EyeCare America
  • Hearing aids: Medicare usually doesn’t cover hearing aids. Ask SHIP about plan options and ask local Lions Clubs about assistance.

Health coverage options at a glance

Program What it provides Who it helps Where to start
SHIP counseling Free Medicare plan guidance; checks for savings All Medicare beneficiaries Tennessee SHIP
Medicare Savings Programs Pays Part B premium; may reduce other costs Medicare enrollees with limited income/assets TennCare MSPs
Extra Help (Part D) Lower drug plan costs Medicare with limited income/resources SSA Extra Help
TennCare CHOICES In‑home supports or nursing home care Adults who meet medical and financial rules CHOICES LTSS
PACE Team‑based care to stay at home Eligible seniors in service areas Medicare PACE

Reality check: CHOICES and MSPs require paperwork and sometimes an assessment. If you’re denied, you can appeal—ask SHIP or legal aid (see resources) for help.

Money help (cash, taxes, and bills)

Property Tax Relief and Tax Freeze

  • Property Tax Relief: State reimbursement of part of your property tax bill if you meet age (65+), income, and other rules. Apply through your county trustee.
  • Property Tax Freeze: Some local governments freeze taxes at current amounts for qualifying elderly homeowners.

Utility bills and home energy

  • LIHEAP: Help with electric or gas bills. Administered through local agencies in Shelby County.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy‑saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing, minor repairs).
  • Lifeline phone/internet discount: Monthly discount for eligible low‑income households.
  • Local utility hardship funds: Contact Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) to ask about payment plans and hardship programs, and call 2‑1‑1 for community help.

Charitable emergency help

Tip: Most agencies ask for a photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and proof of income or a hardship notice (shut‑off, eviction, medical bills).

Housing, home repairs, and safety modifications

Renters

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Helps pay rent in private apartments. In Memphis, vouchers are administered by local housing authorities; expect waitlists.
  • Public Housing: Income‑based apartments managed by local housing authorities. Apply directly to your housing authority (see HUD directory above).

Homeowners

  • THDA Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (ERP): Essential home repairs for safety (e.g., heating, roofing, accessibility). For homeowners age 60+ with low income; delivered by local partners.
  • Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis – Aging in Place: Critical home repairs and accessibility modifications for older adults (funding and zip codes vary).
  • USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants & Loans): Grants for seniors 62+ to remove health/safety hazards and loans for other repairs—only in USDA‑eligible rural areas (often outside Memphis city limits).
  • Weatherization (WAP): Energy‑saving improvements at no cost. THDA – Weatherization

Homelessness prevention and shelter

Housing and repair programs at a glance

Program What it does Typical hurdles Where to apply
Section 8 Voucher Pays part of monthly rent Long waitlists; landlord acceptance HUD TN Housing Authorities
Public Housing Income‑based apartments Waitlists; limited units Local housing authority (see HUD directory)
THDA ERP (60+) Critical home safety repairs Funding cycles; contractor scheduling THDA – ERP
Habitat – Aging in Place Accessibility & critical repairs Service area limits; income checks Memphis Habitat
USDA 504 (62+, rural) Grants/loans for repairs in rural areas Must be in a USDA‑eligible area; owner‑occupied USDA 504 TN
Weatherization Free energy efficiency upgrades Energy audit; eligibility proof THDA – WAP

Reality check: Repair programs target safety hazards, not cosmetic upgrades. Expect inspections, paperwork, and a waiting period. Keep all award letters and invoices.

Food and nutrition in Memphis

SNAP (Food Stamps)

  • What it provides: Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries.
  • Senior tip: List all out‑of‑pocket medical costs (premiums, copays, supplies). These can raise your benefit.
  • Apply here: Tennessee DHS – SNAP

Meals for older adults

Farmers’ markets and food boxes

  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal vouchers for produce at approved markets (availability varies by county).
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly box of staple foods for eligible older adults; distributed locally (often via food banks).

Food programs at a glance

Program What you get How to start
SNAP Monthly grocery funds (EBT) Apply for SNAP in Tennessee
Home‑Delivered Meals Meals brought to your door + safety check MIFA Meals on Wheels
Congregate Meals Hot meals at senior centers Find Tennessee meal sites
SFMNP Seasonal farmers’ market vouchers USDA SFMNP directory
CSFP Monthly food box USDA CSFP contacts

Transportation in Memphis

  • MyRide Tennessee: Volunteer drivers for older adults (door‑to‑door for appointments and shopping). Availability varies by county.
  • Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA): Reduced fares for seniors; MATAplus provides paratransit for riders who cannot use fixed routes.
  • TennCare Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have TennCare and no ride to covered medical care, you can request transportation.
  • Veterans: DAV vans or VA shuttles may be available through the Memphis VA Medical Center.

Transportation options at a glance

Option Who it serves How to access
MyRide TN (volunteers) Older adults needing door‑to‑door rides MyRide TN
MATA senior fares Seniors and riders with disabilities MATA Transit
MATAplus paratransit Riders unable to use fixed routes Apply via MATA (see site)
TennCare medical rides TennCare members TennCare Transportation
VA/DAV transportation Eligible veterans VA facility finder

Reality check: Book rides early. Volunteer and paratransit services may fill up days in advance. For medical rides, have your appointment date, time, and provider’s address ready.

Caregivers and staying at home safely

  • National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP): Training, counseling, respite, and limited supplies for caregivers of adults 60+ or people with dementia.
  • Lifespan Respite: Short‑term relief for unpaid caregivers. Access via AAAD. Caregiving programs
  • Home & Community‑Based Services (OPTIONS/Title III‑B): Personal care, homemaker services, and more if you are not eligible for Medicaid/TennCare.
  • Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help with concerns in nursing homes or assisted living.

Tip: Ask for a falls‑risk review. Simple changes—grab bars, better lighting, removing throw rugs—can prevent injuries.

Legal help and consumer protection

Reality check: Government agencies will not demand payment by gift card or threaten arrest. If unsure, hang up and call the agency using the number on its official website.

Inclusive supports: specific groups of Memphis seniors

LGBTQ+ older adults

Veteran seniors

  • Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS): Free, accredited help with VA claims and appeals; find county Veterans Service Officers. TDVS
  • VA Aid & Attendance / Housebound: Increases pension for qualifying veterans/survivors who need care. VA Pension Add‑Ons
  • Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes (skilled nursing): TSVH
  • Property Tax Relief for disabled veterans: TN Tax Relief

Seniors with disabilities

  • TennCare CHOICES and home‑based supports: CHOICES LTSS
  • Assistive technology and home modifications: Ask AAAD; also see Weatherization and THDA ERP for safety upgrades.
  • Paratransit and transit eligibility: Apply with MATA for MATAplus if fixed routes are not usable. MATA

American Indian and Alaska Native elders

  • Tennessee has no federally recognized tribes within the state, but many AI/AN elders live in Memphis. You may be eligible for IHS services and Purchased/Referred Care through your Tribe.
  • State and federal benefits (Medicare, TennCare, SNAP) apply to eligible AI/AN elders; some programs treat certain Tribal income/resources differently. Ask SHIP or legal aid to review your situation.

Rural seniors in the Memphis region

  • Outside the city limits (Fayette, Tipton, Lauderdale counties), transportation and repair help may be harder to access. Use:
  • Internet discounts: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended; Lifeline remains. Lifeline Support

Resources by area (Memphis and surrounding counties)

Applying: documents and tips

Bring or gather:

  • Photo ID and proof of Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, or official letter)
  • Social Security number (or documentation if you don’t have one)
  • Income and assets: recent bank statements, SSA/pension award letters, pay stubs (if any)
  • Medical costs: premiums, copay receipts, pharmacy printouts (helps with SNAP deductions)
  • Housing/utility: lease, rent receipt, eviction or shut‑off notices, mortgage, property tax bill

Tips to avoid delays

  • Keep copies of every form, letter, and receipt.
  • Use one point of contact (AAAD, SHIP, or a caseworker) to coordinate multiple applications.
  • Ask about appeal rights and deadlines if you’re denied.
  • Beware of fees: SHIP, AAAD, and official state services are free.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: Where should I start if I feel overwhelmed?
A: Call the Aging Commission of the Mid‑South (Memphis AAAD). They can screen you for multiple services and help with applications. Use the AAAD locator to get the Memphis office details.

Q: I need help at home. Do I have to move to a nursing home?
A: Not necessarily. Ask about TennCare CHOICES (if you meet medical and financial rules) and non‑Medicaid OPTIONS/Title III services through the AAAD. See CHOICES LTSS and HCBS options.

Q: My Medicare premium is too high. Can anything help?
A: The Medicare Savings Programs may pay your Part B premium if you qualify. Apply through TennCare: MSPs in Tennessee. SHIP can help you apply: TN SHIP.

Q: Is there help with energy bills in Memphis?
A: Yes. LIHEAP can help with heating and cooling, and Weatherization (WAP) can lower bills with home upgrades. Start at THDA LIHEAP and THDA Weatherization. Ask your utility (MLGW) about hardship programs and dial 2‑1‑1 for local help.

Q: How can I get home repairs or a wheelchair ramp?
A: For critical safety repairs, check THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (ERP), and ask the AAAD about small modifications. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis offers accessibility and critical repairs (Memphis Habitat). In rural areas, see USDA 504 Home Repair.

Q: Is there help with my Memphis property taxes?
A: Tennessee’s Property Tax Relief program may reimburse part of your property tax if you meet age and income rules. Some areas also offer a Property Tax Freeze. Learn more: Tax Relief and Tax Freeze. Contact your county trustee to apply.

Q: Are there food options besides SNAP?
A: Yes. Meals on Wheels via MIFA, congregate meals at senior centers (meal sites), CSFP food boxes (USDA CSFP contacts), and seasonal Senior Farmers’ Market vouchers (SFMNP directory).

Q: I’m a grandparent raising grandchildren. What help is there?
A: Ask about Families First (TANF) through DHS and the Relative Caregiver Program (DCS). See TANF – Families First and Relative Caregiver Program.

Q: How do I report elder abuse or exploitation in Memphis?
A: Contact Adult Protective Services. You can report online or by phone: TN DHS – APS.

Q: Where can I get unbiased help choosing a Medicare plan?
A: SHIP counselors provide free, unbiased assistance statewide. Book help at Tennessee SHIP.

Source links and official references

Health and benefits

Housing and utilities

Food and nutrition

Transportation

Safety, legal, and crisis

Taxes and veterans

AAAD and caregiving

LGBTQ+ and AI/AN

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or organization before applying. Links are provided for convenience and were current at the time of publication.

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.

Share this post:
Share on Pinterest Share on WhatsApp
Check Assistance Programs and Benefits for Seniors in Your State
Alabama Montana
Alaska Nebraska
Arizona Nevada
Arkansas New Hampshire
California New Jersey
Colorado New Mexico
Connecticut New York
Delaware North Carolina
Florida North Dakota
Georgia Ohio
Hawaii Oklahoma
Idaho Oregon
Illinois Pennsylvania
Indiana Rhode Island
Iowa South Carolina
Kansas South Dakota
Kentucky Tennessee
Louisiana Texas
Maine Utah
Maryland Vermont
Massachusetts Virginia
Michigan Washington
Minnesota West Virginia
Mississippi Wisconsin
Missouri Wyoming

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.