Emergency Assistance for Seniors in North Carolina

Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in North Carolina

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

Quick Help Box — Start Here

If you’re in danger or can’t wait for an appointment, use these numbers now.

Need Who to Contact Phone Online
Immediate danger, fire, police, medical 911 911 —
Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988 988 Lifeline (chat/text)
Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation County DSS Adult Protective Services (APS) After hours: 911 Report APS and find your county DSS
Help finding food, shelter, bill help NC 211 Call 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162 NC 211 search and chat
DHHS information and referrals NC CARE-LINE 800-662-7030 NC CARE-LINE
Disaster info and shelters ReadyNC / NC Emergency Management — ReadyNC.gov
Veterans in crisis Veterans Crisis Line 988, then press 1 Veterans Crisis Line
Poisoning, medicine mistakes NC Poison Control 800-222-1222 NC Poison Control

For a full overview of long-term and emergency programs available, visit our guide to grants for seniors in North Carolina.

Reality check: Many programs run on limited funds and have waitlists. If one door is closed, try another: call NC 211, your county DSS, your Area Agency on Aging, and any utility or housing provider you pay monthly. Ask about “emergency assistance,” “hardship,” or “medical need” protections.

What this guide covers for North Carolina Seniors

  • The fastest ways to get help during emergencies (power shutoffs, eviction, food, disasters).
  • State-specific programs seniors in North Carolina use most.
  • Clear steps to apply and who to call if you get stuck.
  • Cautions about waitlists, closed programs, and common roadblocks.
  • Links to official agencies and trusted organizations.

Tip: Keep a folder (paper or digital) with your ID, Social Security number, proof of income, recent bills, and any medical letters. You’ll need these for most applications.

Emergency help first

If you’re about to lose housing or heat/power

  • Utility shutoffs or out of heating/cooling fuel:
    • Call your utility and ask for a payment arrangement or medical need protection.
    • Apply for the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) at your county DSS if you’re facing a heating or cooling crisis: CIP — NCDHHS.
    • If it’s between late fall and March and you heat your home, ask about the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): LIEAP — NCDHHS.
    • Ask about local Weatherization for long-term utility savings: Weatherization Assistance Program — NC DEQ.
  • Water/sewer shutoffs:
    • Contact your water utility immediately and ask about bill assistance or medical protections.
    • For general consumer rights and complaint help, see the NC Utilities Commission consumer page: NC Utilities Commission Consumer Resources.

Beyond emergencies, older adults in North Carolina can also explore our overview of senior financial assistance programs to boost monthly support.

Abuse, neglect, or exploitation

Disasters (hurricanes, floods, wildfires)

Medical and mental health emergencies

  • Life-threatening: call 911.
  • Mental health crisis: call 988 or use 988 Lifeline chat.
  • VA enrolled veterans: call the Veterans Crisis Line (988, press 1) or contact your VA facility; find locations: VA Facility Locator.
  • Medication costs: ask your pharmacy about lower-cost generics, contact your plan, check manufacturer patient assistance, and review:

Energy, utilities, and essential bills

Here are the main programs that help with heat, power, and ongoing utility costs in North Carolina. You may also be eligible for utility assistance for seniors, covering electricity, water, and heating emergencies.

Energy assistance at a glance

Program What it does Who it serves How to apply
Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) One-time help during a heating or cooling crisis (including shutoff notice) Income-eligible households; must have a heating/cooling crisis Apply at county DSS; details: CIP — NCDHHS
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) One-time payment to help with winter heating bills Income-eligible households; seasonal program (typically winter) Apply at county DSS; program info: LIEAP — NCDHHS
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Free home energy improvements to reduce bills (insulation, air sealing, basic repairs tied to efficiency) Income-eligible homeowners and renters (with landlord permission) Apply through local providers: Weatherization — NC DEQ
Heating & Air Repair and Replacement (HARRP) Repairs or replaces unsafe or inoperable heating/cooling systems for eligible households Income-eligible households See State Energy Office program info: NC DEQ Energy Programs

Reality check:

  • CIP and LIEAP funds can run out. Apply early and call back if you’re denied due to funding; ask to be notified if more funds arrive.
  • Weatherization often has a waiting list. Get on the list as soon as you can.

Phone and internet

  • Lifeline reduces phone or internet costs for qualifying low-income households: Lifeline Support.
  • Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) funding ended in 2024; see current status: FCC ACP.
  • Tip: Ask your provider about senior discounts or low-income plans even if ACP is not available.

Water and other utilities

Food and nutrition

Eating well is crucial for health, especially for those on medications.

Program What it does Who it serves How to apply
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS/SNAP) Monthly benefits to buy groceries with an EBT card Income-eligible individuals and households Apply online: ePASS (FNS) or at county DSS; program info: FNS — NCDHHS
Congregate meals & home-delivered meals Free or low-cost meals at senior sites or delivered to homebound seniors Older adults; varies by county Contact your Area Agency on Aging: Find Your AAA — NCDHHS
Senior Food Boxes (CSFP) Monthly food package for low-income seniors Income-eligible older adults Learn about CSFP: USDA CSFP and ask your local food bank
Food banks and pantries Emergency groceries Anyone in need; local rules vary Find local: NC 211 Food or regional food banks below

Major food banks serving NC regions:

Explore food programs for seniors to ensure consistent access to meals and groceries.

Tips:

  • If you lost food due to a power outage, ask DSS about reporting food loss for possible FNS replacement benefits. See FNS program info: FNS — NCDHHS.
  • Bring a photo ID, proof of address, proof of income, and any shutoff or eviction notices to speed up help at pantries or DSS.

Housing, home repairs, and property taxes

Staying safely housed may require both emergency help and long-term fixes.

Emergency shelter and homelessness resources

Our page on emergency housing grants for seniors lists immediate options for those displaced or at risk.

Renters: rights and eviction defense

If your emergency involves housing or eviction risks, also consult our full guide to housing and rent assistance programs for seniors.

Home repairs and accessibility

If your home needs urgent fixes, explore our guide on home repair grants for seniors.

Property tax relief for seniors

North Carolina offers several property tax relief options. Eligibility and income limits change each year.

Program What it does Who it serves Where to learn/apply
Elderly or Disabled Exclusion Reduces taxable value of your home Homeowners 65+ or totally & permanently disabled who meet income limits Overview: NCDOR Property Tax Relief. Apply with your county tax office.
Property Tax “Circuit Breaker” Deferment Defers a portion of property tax based on income Homeowners 65+ or disabled who meet income limits and stay in the home Overview: NCDOR Property Tax Relief
Disabled Veteran Homestead Exclusion Excludes a set amount of assessed value for eligible disabled veterans or their surviving spouses Qualifying disabled veterans or surviving spouses Details: NCDOR Property Tax Relief

Reality check:

  • These programs usually require applying with your county tax office. Deadlines vary; some counties set spring or early summer deadlines. Contact your county tax office early.
  • If you already missed a deadline, ask if there’s a late application process due to illness or disability.

Health care, long-term care, and caregiving

NC Medicaid (including home and community services)

  • NC Medicaid helps with doctor visits, hospital care, nursing homes, and some home supports if you qualify by income/medical need: NC Medicaid.
  • Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is available to Medicaid members for rides to covered appointments. Contact your county DSS or your health plan (for managed care).
  • Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA) is a Medicaid home- and community-based services waiver that can help you remain at home with supports (personal care, home modifications, etc.). Learn more from NC Medicaid and ask your county DSS or Area Agency on Aging about referrals: NC Medicaid.
  • Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers complete medical and long-term care for eligible seniors who need a nursing home level of care but can live safely in the community: Medicare: What is PACE and the NC PACE Association for local programs.

If urgent dental bills are part of your crisis, it’s wise to review the available dental grants in North Carolina for seniors.

Reality check: CAP/DA and PACE may have waitlists or limited service areas. Get on the list early and keep in touch monthly.

Medicare counseling and fraud prevention

  • Free, unbiased Medicare counseling (plans, billing, appeals) is available through SHIIP at the NC Department of Insurance: NC SHIIP.
  • Report suspected Medicare fraud or billing errors through the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), also at SHIIP: NC SHIIP.

Help paying for prescriptions

  • Medicare Part D Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) lowers premiums and copays if you qualify: SSA Extra Help.
  • NC MedAssist provides free prescription medications for qualifying uninsured, low-income adults: NC MedAssist.
  • Ask your doctor about generics and 90-day supplies, and check manufacturer patient assistance programs listed on the drug’s official website.

Read about medical grants for seniors to cover treatments and medication costs.

Dementia and caregiver support

  • Project C.A.R.E. (Caregiver Alternatives to Running on Empty) provides counseling, support, and respite options to caregivers of people with dementia: Project C.A.R.E. — NCDHHS.
  • The Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) funds local services like home-delivered meals, in-home aid, adult day services, and respite through your Area Agency on Aging: Find Your AAA — NCDHHS.
  • Lifespan Respite provides caregiver resources and may offer vouchers when available: NC Lifespan Respite — NCDHHS.

Long-term care rights and help

If hearing loss is affecting your daily life, look into hearing aid assistance for seniors.

Transportation

Don’t forget transportation assistance for seniors if you need rides to clinics or food banks.

  • Find ride options (public transit, paratransit, volunteer programs) at the statewide portal: Find My Ride NC.
  • Medicaid members: ask your health plan or county DSS about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT).
  • Rural and senior transportation may be funded through local programs; call your regional transit provider via Find My Ride NC and ask for help under the Rural Operating Assistance Program or “EDTAP” for elderly/disabled rides (availability varies by county).
  • Veterans: ask the VA about travel pay (if eligible) and the DAV Transportation Network for rides to VA medical appointments: DAV Rides to VA Appointments and VA Facility Locator.

Financial & basic needs assistance for seniors

Check our national overview of financial assistance for seniors to ease ongoing financial stress.

  • Apply for FNS, Medicaid, and other benefits on ePASS: ePASS portal.
  • Social Security retirement, disability, or SSI: call 800-772-1213 or visit SSA.gov (use the office locator).
  • Property tax relief programs (senior/disabled exclusions and veteran exclusions): NCDOR Property Tax Relief.
  • Unclaimed property (forgotten bank accounts, insurance, refunds): check your name at NC Cash — NC Treasurer.

See our roundup of low-income senior grants for ongoing financial support.

How to apply: step-by-step

ePASS for FNS, Medicaid, and more

  1. Go to ePASS.nc.gov.
  2. Create an account or continue as a guest.
  3. Choose the benefit (FNS, Medicaid, etc.), enter your info, and upload documents.
  4. Watch for messages in your ePASS account and answer any DSS calls.
  5. If you have trouble, call your county DSS or the NC CARE-LINE: 800-662-7030.

Documents to have ready: photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension), bank statements, and recent bills.

Energy help (CIP and LIEAP)

  1. Call your county DSS or visit in person. Tell them you have a heating/cooling crisis (for CIP) or want LIEAP when the season opens.
  2. Bring your ID, Social Security numbers, income proof, and utility bill or shutoff notice.
  3. Ask if funds are available and when to call back if they’re out.

Weatherization and home repairs

  1. Weatherization: locate your local provider at NC DEQ Weatherization and ask how to apply.
  2. Home repairs: check NCHFA Urgent Repair Program for local partners in your county.

Property tax relief

  1. Review programs at NCDOR Property Tax Relief.
  2. Call your county tax office for forms, deadlines, and help filling them out.
  3. Keep copies of your application and proof of income.

Special focus: Inclusive support

LGBTQ+ seniors

  • SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 877-360-LGBT (5428), with friendly responders trained for older LGBTQ+ adults: SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline.
  • Local community centers can help with support groups, friendly visitors, and referrals. Example: LGBT Center of Raleigh.
  • Healthcare tips: Ask SHIIP about inclusive Medicare plan networks: NC SHIIP. For general LGBTQ+ aging resources, see SAGE.

Veteran seniors

American Indian and Alaska Native elders in NC

Rural seniors and limited access areas

Regional resources & local agencies in North Carolina

Use these regional pointers to get local, in-person help faster. For a full statewide map of senior services, start with your Area Agency on Aging: Find Your AAA — NCDHHS. Your local Area Agencies on Aging in North Carolina are valuable hubs for referrals and advocacy.

Your local senior center may also offer walk-in meals, emergency transportation, or utility referral programs — check our list of senior centers in North Carolina.

Local charities that help seniors often step in with quick relief for bills, food, and medical care.

Note: Agency names and websites can change. If a link doesn’t work, call NC 211 to be connected to the current office.

Program tables you can scan quickly

Table: Healthcare and long-term care programs

Program What it does How to start
NC Medicaid Health coverage for eligible low-income adults; includes NEMT and long-term care NC Medicaid or apply at ePASS
CAP/DA (Medicaid waiver) Services to keep eligible adults at home instead of nursing home Ask county DSS/AAA; learn via NC Medicaid
PACE All-in-one medical and long-term care for eligible seniors Medicare PACE and NC PACE Association
SHIIP Free Medicare counseling NC SHIIP
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Help resolve complaints in facilities LTC Ombudsman
Project C.A.R.E. Dementia caregiver support Project C.A.R.E.

Table: Energy and utilities help

Program Type Where to apply
CIP Emergency heating/cooling payment County DSS; CIP info
LIEAP Seasonal heating payment County DSS; LIEAP info
Weatherization Energy-saving home improvements Local provider; NC DEQ Weatherization
Lifeline Phone/internet discount Lifeline Support
Utility hardship Payment plans, hardship funds Call your utility; consumer rights: NC Utilities Commission

Table: Housing and home repair

Program What it covers Where to learn/apply
Emergency shelter Temporary shelter, Coordinated Entry NC 211, NC Coalition to End Homelessness
Legal help for eviction Advice and representation Legal Aid of North Carolina
Weatherization Health and efficiency fixes tied to energy NC DEQ Weatherization
Urgent home repairs Health/safety repairs for very low-income NCHFA Urgent Repair Program
Property tax relief Senior/veteran exclusions and deferment NCDOR Property Tax Relief

Table: Food and nutrition

Program Benefit Where to apply
FNS (SNAP) Monthly grocery benefit via EBT ePASS; FNS info
Meals (congregate/home) Prepared meals for seniors Find Your AAA
CSFP Senior Food Boxes Monthly USDA food package USDA CSFP + local food bank
Regional food banks Emergency groceries See links above or call NC 211

Table: Important contacts

Topic Contact Phone Online
Benefits and services NC CARE-LINE 800-662-7030 NC CARE-LINE
Local aging services Area Agency on Aging locator — Find Your AAA
Benefits applications ePASS — ePASS
Consumer protection NC DOJ 877-5-NO-SCAM NC DOJ Consumer Protection
Property tax relief NCDOR — NCDOR Property Tax Relief
Disaster updates ReadyNC — ReadyNC

Every state offers unique aid options — explore state assistance for seniors to find other regional help.

Realities, tips, and warnings for seniors in crisis

  • Waitlists happen. CAP/DA, Weatherization, and home repair programs often have long waits. Apply early and follow up regularly.
  • Funds run out. LIEAP and local aid are not open year-round. Ask for the opening date, and set a reminder to apply the first week.
  • Keep proof. Save copies of applications, letters, and bills. If you talk to someone, write down the date, time, and name.
  • Don’t skip appeals. If denied, ask how to appeal or reapply with more documents. SHIIP can help appeal Medicare decisions; Legal Aid may help with benefits appeals.
  • Beware of fees. Most government help is free to apply. Avoid “benefit consultants” who charge upfront fees.

When applying for help, protect your identity by reading our guide on how to avoid senior scams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Resources (statewide)

Disclaimer

Program details, funding levels, income limits, and application windows change. Always verify the latest information with the official agency or program website linked here. This guide is for 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: January 2026
  • Next Review: May 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.