Grants for Seniors in Milwaukee

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (2026 Guide)

Last updated: December 16, 2025

This is your practical, no‑nonsense guide to the programs that help older adults in the City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County pay for food, housing, utilities, healthcare, prescriptions, transportation, and more. You’ll find what the benefit does, who runs it, how to apply, and where to get one‑on‑one help.

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If You Need Emergency Help

When something can’t wait, use these contacts right away.

Reality check: Some programs have waitlists or limited funds. If applications are closed, ask how to get on the waitlist and what to do meanwhile (local pantries, payment plans, or short‑term aid).

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Key Takeaways

• Use ACCESS Wisconsin to check eligibility and apply for FoodShare (SNAP), Medicaid, and SeniorCare prescription help: https://access.wisconsin.gov/
• In Milwaukee County, the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) within the Division on Aging is the best starting point for benefits screening and local services: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• Expect waitlists for Section 8 vouchers, subsidized apartments, and some home services. Apply early to multiple places, keep documents handy, and respond quickly to mail.
• The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) for internet discounts ended in 2024. Ask your provider about their own low‑cost plans and see Wisconsin broadband resources: https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Broadband.aspx
• For unbiased Medicare counseling and plan comparisons, Wisconsin’s free Medigap Helpline is trusted: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx

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How to Use This Guide

• Skim the “At a Glance” tables for quick options.
• Follow the “How to apply” steps under each program.
• Prefer personal help? Call the Milwaukee County ADRC (Division on Aging): https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
  Statewide ADRCs directory: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

Tip: Keep copies (paper or photos) of your ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, lease/mortgage, utility bills, and recent bank/income statements. Missing documents are the top reason for delays.

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Start Here: Apply Online and Check Eligibility

• ACCESS Wisconsin (state portal for FoodShare, Medicaid, and SeniorCare): https://access.wisconsin.gov/
  You can screen for eligibility, apply, upload documents, and manage benefits online.
• Milwaukee Enrollment Services (MiLES) handles income maintenance for Milwaukee County (FoodShare, Medicaid, etc.). For in‑person or phone help, see Milwaukee County’s info page: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Milwaukee-Enrollment-Services

What to have ready:

• Photo ID and Social Security number
• Proof of income (Social Security, pensions, pay stubs)
• Rent/mortgage and utility bills

Reality check: If you’re denied, it might be a paperwork issue. Call the ADRC or MiLES and ask exactly what’s missing and how to fix it. You have appeal rights.

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Money and Basic Needs

Social Security and SSI

• Social Security retirement, survivors, disability: apply and manage benefits via the Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Wisconsin state supplement for low‑income seniors or adults with disabilities: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/ssi/index.htm

Tip: If you get denied for SSI, you can appeal. Ask Legal Action of Wisconsin about help: https://www.legalaction.org/

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Food Help in Milwaukee

How to apply:

• FoodShare: use ACCESS Wisconsin: https://access.wisconsin.gov/
• Senior Dining and Meals on Wheels: call the Milwaukee County ADRC for screening and site locations: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• Stockbox: check eligibility and pickup sites with Hunger Task Force: https://www.hungertaskforce.org/what-we-do/senior-services/stockbox/

Reality check: Farmers’ market coupons are limited each season and can run out. Ask about waitlists and alternative produce box options through local pantries.

Local tip: “Serving Older Adults of Southeast Wisconsin” helps operate Milwaukee County senior centers and dining programs; see locations and calendars: https://servingolderadults.org/

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Energy, Utilities, and Phone

Important: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024 due to lack of funding. Some providers still offer senior or low‑income plans. Ask your carrier and check the Public Service Commission’s broadband page above.

How to apply:

• Use the WHEAP and Weatherization links or call 211 to find your Milwaukee County intake office (you’ll need recent utility bills, ID, and income proof).

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Healthcare, Prescriptions, and Long‑Term Care

Medicare in Wisconsin

• Learn the basics and compare plans at Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Compare Part D drug plans and Medicare Advantage: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare
• Unbiased counseling: Wisconsin Medigap Helpline (SHIP): https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx
  State counseling overview: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/benefit-specialists/medicare-counseling.htm

Reality check: The lowest premium isn’t always the cheapest overall. Check your doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, and travel needs before switching.

Wisconsin SeniorCare (state prescription program)

• State program for residents 65+ that helps pay for prescriptions; works alongside or instead of Part D. Details and enrollment: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/seniorcare/index.htm

Tips:

• SeniorCare has a small annual fee and income‑based copays/deductibles (see benefit levels on the official site).
• You can enroll in SeniorCare anytime; it may reduce or avoid Part D late‑enrollment penalties.

Medicaid for Older Adults (EBD Medicaid) and Medicare Savings Programs

• Medicaid for the Elderly, Blind, or Disabled (EBD): helps with medical costs and some long‑term care: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/seniors.htm (apply via ACCESS: https://access.wisconsin.gov/)
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/SLMB+): may pay your Part B premium and sometimes deductibles/copays: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/publications/p10062.pdf

Long‑Term Care (in the community or a facility)

• Family Care (managed long‑term services): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/familycare/index.htm
• Family Care Partnership (includes medical care): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/familycare/partnership.htm
• IRIS (self‑directed services): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/iris/index.htm

How to start: Contact the Milwaukee County ADRC for a functional screen and options counseling: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging

Advocacy and complaints:

• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (nursing homes, assisted living): https://longtermcare.wi.gov/

Non‑emergency medical rides:

• Medicaid members can get rides to covered medical visits and pharmacies: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/nemt/index.htm

Assistive technology:

• WisTech program (device loans, demos, reuse, funding help): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wistech/index.htm

Hearing and vision resources:

• Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/odhh/index.htm
• Prevent Blindness Wisconsin: https://wisconsin.preventblindness.org/

Dental care:

• Dental Lifeline Network — Wisconsin (free care for eligible seniors; waitlists common): https://dentallifeline.org/wisconsin/
• Marquette University School of Dentistry (reduced‑cost clinic): https://www.marquette.edu/dentistry/patients/
• Find low‑cost dental clinics (FQHCs): https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
• Wisconsin Oral Health Program (state info): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/oral-health/index.htm

Local tip: The Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee provides healthcare to eligible veterans: https://www.va.gov/milwaukee-health-care/

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Housing, Rent, and Home Repairs (Milwaukee Focus)

Renting and Affordable Apartments

Reality check: Waitlists are normal for vouchers and some properties. Apply to multiple sites. Consider smaller buildings or nearby suburbs if you can.

Tenant help and legal info:

• Legal Action of Wisconsin (Milwaukee): https://www.legalaction.org/
• 211 Wisconsin for local tenant resources: https://211wisconsin.org/

Home Repair and Accessibility

City of Milwaukee programs:

• STRONG Homes Loan Program (low‑interest, flexible loans for code repairs and essential improvements): https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Neighborhoods/STRONGHomes
• Compliance Loan Program (CLP) (0% deferred loans for code compliance for eligible homeowners): https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Housing/CLP

Other programs:

• USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504) — grants for very low‑income homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; low‑interest loans available: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wi
• Wisconsin Weatherization Assistance Program (free energy fixes): https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Weatherization.aspx
• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Rehab Programs (varies by city/area): https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/CDBGHousing.aspx
• Revitalize Milwaukee (nonprofit providing critical repairs for low‑income older adults and veterans): https://www.freehomerepairs.org/

Tips:

• Get written estimates from licensed contractors.
• Ask if the grant/loan places a lien or requires payback if you sell within a certain time.
• Keep all job scopes and change orders in writing.

Property Tax and Homeowner Help

Foreclosure avoidance:

• Find HUD‑approved housing counselors (via 211 Wisconsin): https://211wisconsin.org/
• VA loan? Contact the VA right away for options: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/trouble-making-payments/

Note on pandemic programs:

• Wisconsin Help for Homeowners (HAF) closed to new applications. State info and resources: https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/LocalGovtsGrants/Homeowner-Assistance.aspx
• Statewide emergency rental assistance (WERA) ended. Check 211 and Milwaukee County Human Services for any local aid: https://211wisconsin.org/

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Transportation in Milwaukee

• Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) Reduced Fare for Seniors 65+: check how to get a Reduced Fare card and current fares: https://www.ridemcts.com/fares-passes/
• MCTS Transit Plus (ADA paratransit door‑to‑door service) for riders who can’t use fixed routes due to disability: https://www.ridemcts.com/programs/transit-plus
• County Specialized Transportation (WisDOT 85.21 funding) supports senior rides to medical appointments, dining sites, shopping, and more. Start with the ADRC for local options: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (for Medicaid members): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/nemt/index.htm

Tip: Schedule rides 24–48 hours ahead when possible. Ask about mileage reimbursement if a friend or family member can drive you.

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Work, Volunteering, and Income Boosts

• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): paid part‑time training jobs for people 55+ with low income. Find your local SCSEP grantee: https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/SCSEP/find-senior-community-service-employment-program.aspx
• Wisconsin Senior Employment Program (WISE): helps older adults find part‑time opportunities and build skills: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wise/index.htm
• Job Centers (resume help, job search, workshops): https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/

Reality check: SCSEP often has waitlists. Ask about short‑term projects or virtual options if you have mobility limits.

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Consumer Protection, Scams, and Elder Abuse

• Report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation to Adult Protective Services (APS): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aps/aar-agencies.htm
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (facility concerns): https://longtermcare.wi.gov/
• Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) — scams, fraud, and complaints: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/ConsumerProtection.aspx
• Identity theft help (Wisconsin DOJ): https://www.doj.state.wi.us/dls/identity-theft-and-privacy-protection

Tip: If someone “guarantees” benefits for a fee, that’s a red flag. Call the ADRC or 211 before sharing personal or bank info.

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Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• Milwaukee LGBT Community Center (older adult support and programs): https://www.mkelgbt.org/
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (support and referrals): https://www.sageusa.org/

Tip: Ask the ADRC for LGBTQ+‑affirming providers and housing options.

Veterans and Military Families

• Milwaukee County Veterans Service Office (benefits and claims help): https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Veterans-Services
• Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) benefits and grants: https://dva.wi.gov/
• VA Aid & Attendance (added help with daily activities for qualifying veterans/survivors): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Zablocki VA Medical Center (Milwaukee): https://www.va.gov/milwaukee-health-care/

Seniors with Disabilities

• Milwaukee County ADRC (options counseling, in‑home supports, assistive devices): https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• WisTech Assistive Technology (device lending, reuse, funding help): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wistech/index.htm
• MCTS Transit Plus (ADA paratransit): https://www.ridemcts.com/programs/transit-plus

American Indian/Tribal Members (in and around Milwaukee)

• Great Lakes Inter‑Tribal Council (elder services and Title VI nutrition; varies by tribe): https://www.glitc.org/
• Wisconsin DHS Tribal Affairs (links to tribal health and aging services): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/tribalaffairs/index.htm
• Indian Health Service — Bemidji Area: https://www.ihs.gov/bemidji/
• Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center (Milwaukee): https://gliihc.net/

Tip: Start with your Tribe’s aging office or an Urban Indian health clinic for nutrition, transportation, and caregiver support under Title VI.

Rural Seniors (limited access)

Even if you live outside the city or have limited transit:

• Call 211 to locate mobile food pantries, volunteer driver programs, and visiting nurse services: https://211wisconsin.org/
• Check PSC broadband resources for service options in low‑coverage areas: https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Broadband.aspx
• Ask your ADRC about loaner devices, hotspots, and telehealth options.

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Program Quick‑Lookup Tables

Health & Long‑Term Care at a Glance

Food & Utilities at a Glance

Housing & Home Repair at a Glance

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Local Government and Community Contacts (Milwaukee)

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Step‑by‑Step: Applying Without Delays

1. Gather these first:

• Photo ID, Social Security number
• Proof of income (SSA award letter, pension statement, pay stubs if any)
• Rent/lease or mortgage statement, recent utility bills
• Medicare card (if applying for MSP/QMB/SLMB) and list of medications

2. Use the right portal:

• ACCESS Wisconsin for FoodShare, Medicaid, SeniorCare: https://access.wisconsin.gov/

3. If you prefer help:

• Call Milwaukee County ADRC for screening and local referrals: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• For FoodShare/Medicaid paperwork support, contact MiLES: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Milwaukee-Enrollment-Services

4. Watch your mail:

• Respond quickly to letters asking for more documents; missed deadlines cause denials.
• If denied, appeal on time and ask a benefits specialist to review the reason. Many denials are fixable.

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Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings

• Waitlists happen. For Section 8 and some home services, waiting can be months or longer. Apply to multiple properties and ask about priority categories (age, disability, veteran status).
• Don’t skip insurance reviews. A quick review of your Medicare or drug coverage can save hundreds per year. Use the Medigap Helpline: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx
• Keep a “benefits folder.” Include copies of IDs, award letters, leases, and bills. Update it every 6 months.
• Internet discounts: With ACP ended, call your internet provider about senior/low‑income plans; check PSC resources: https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Broadband.aspx
• No fee “helpers.” Be cautious of anyone charging to “guarantee” approvals. Verify with ADRC or 211 first.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where should I start if I’m unsure what I qualify for?
A: Use the screener on ACCESS Wisconsin (https://access.wisconsin.gov/) and then call the Milwaukee County ADRC for personal help (https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging).

Q: Is SeniorCare better than Medicare Part D for prescriptions?
A: It depends on your medications and income. SeniorCare can be a lower‑cost option for many. Review benefit levels on the SeniorCare site (https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/seniorcare/index.htm) and compare with Medicare’s Plan Finder (https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare).

Q: Are there still rental assistance programs like during the pandemic?
A: The statewide program ended. Some local programs offer short‑term help but funding is limited. Call 211 (https://211wisconsin.org/) and check with the ADRC about current options.

Q: Who can help me pick a Medicare plan or check drug coverage?
A: Wisconsin’s Medigap Helpline (SHIP) provides unbiased, free counseling: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx

Q: How do I get a ramp, grab bars, or bathroom safety upgrades?
A: Ask the ADRC about Family Care/IRIS (if you meet functional and financial rules), city repair programs (STRONG Homes, CLP), and Weatherization. Links:

• ADRC: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• STRONG Homes: https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Neighborhoods/STRONGHomes
• CLP: https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Housing/CLP
• Weatherization: https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Weatherization.aspx

Q: Who can help with property taxes on a fixed income?
A: Look at the Homestead Credit (https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Individuals/homestead.aspx) and WHEDA’s Property Tax Deferral Loans (https://www.wheda.com/homeowners/). The City Treasurer can discuss payment plans: https://city.milwaukee.gov/treasurer

Q: I don’t drive. How can I get to doctor appointments or the grocery store?
A: If you have Medicaid, use the state’s NEMT program (https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/nemt/index.htm). Otherwise, call the ADRC about county specialized transportation, MCTS reduced fare, and Transit Plus:

• ADRC: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• MCTS fares: https://www.ridemcts.com/fares-passes/
• Transit Plus: https://www.ridemcts.com/programs/transit-plus

Q: What if I suspect a scam?
A: Report to Wisconsin Consumer Protection (DATCP): https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/ConsumerProtection.aspx and tell the ADRC. If you shared bank info, contact your bank immediately.

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Resource Links (Official Sources)

• Apply/manage benefits: ACCESS Wisconsin — https://access.wisconsin.gov/
• Milwaukee County ADRC (Division on Aging) — https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
• Milwaukee Enrollment Services (MiLES) — https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Milwaukee-Enrollment-Services
• SeniorCare Rx — https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/seniorcare/index.htm
• Medicaid for Seniors — https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/seniors.htm
• Medicare counseling (Medigap Helpline) — https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx
• FoodShare (SNAP) — https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/foodshare/index.htm
• Milwaukee Senior Dining — https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging/Older-Adult-Services/Senior-Dining
• WHEAP (energy help) — https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/keepwarm/index.htm
• Weatherization — https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Weatherization.aspx
• Lifeline (phone) — https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/ForConsumers/Lifeline.aspx
• HUD apartments (WI) — https://www.hud.gov/states/wisconsin/renting/localapts
• Section 8 housing authorities (WI) — https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/wi
• HACM (Milwaukee public housing and HCV) — https://www.hacm.org/
• City repair programs (STRONG Homes, CLP) — https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Neighborhoods/STRONGHomes • https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Housing/CLP
• USDA 504 repair (WI) — https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wi
• Homestead Credit — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Individuals/homestead.aspx
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman — https://longtermcare.wi.gov/
• Adult Protective Services — https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aps/aar-agencies.htm
• 211 Wisconsin — https://211wisconsin.org/
• Legal Action of Wisconsin — https://www.legalaction.org/
• Hunger Task Force Stockbox — https://www.hungertaskforce.org/what-we-do/senior-services/stockbox/
• MCTS fares and Transit Plus — https://www.ridemcts.com/fares-passes/ • https://www.ridemcts.com/programs/transit-plus
• PSC Broadband — https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Broadband.aspx
• VA Milwaukee Health Care — https://www.va.gov/milwaukee-health-care/
• GLITC — https://www.glitc.org/
• Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center — https://gliihc.net/

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Disclaimer

Program rules, eligibility, funding amounts, and provider lists change over time. Always confirm details with the official agency or website linked in this guide. This article is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.

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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: 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.