Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Virginia

Last updated:

Quick help box
Keep these numbers and links handy. If you’re in danger or need urgent help, use the first three.

Need Who to contact How to reach
Immediate danger, fire, medical emergency 911 Call 911
Mental health or suicide crisis 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988, or visit the 988 Lifeline site: https://988lifeline.org
Poisoning or medication overdose Poison Control 1-800-222-1222 or visit Poison Help: https://poisonhelp.org
Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult in Virginia Adult Protective Services (VDSS) 1-888-832-3858; learn more at Virginia APS: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/abuse/aps.cgi
Find local food, housing, utility help fast 2-1-1 Virginia Dial 2-1-1 or visit https://www.211virginia.org
Disaster assistance (after storms/flooding) FEMA Individuals & Households 1-800-621-3362; apply at https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual
Medicare questions and fraud Medicare 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or https://www.medicare.gov
Social Security and Extra Help (Part D) Social Security Administration 1-800-772-1213 or https://www.ssa.gov
Veterans benefits in Virginia VA (federal) and Virginia DVS 1-800-827-1000; Virginia DVS: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov

Note on sources and search: I cannot browse the web in real time. To keep this guide reliable, every claim links to official government or well-established organizations. Program rules and dates change; always confirm details on the linked pages.

Virginia is getting older. Census data show that roughly “one in six” Virginians are now age 65+ (see U.S. Census QuickFacts for Virginia: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/VA). That means more programs exist—but waitlists and paperwork are common. This guide focuses on fast, practical steps, with direct links to apply and numbers to call.


How to use this guide

  • Start with the Emergency section below if there’s an urgent need.
  • If your need is energy or utility-related, go to Energy & Utilities.
  • If your need is food, rent, healthcare, or transportation, go directly to those sections.
  • For veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, tribal members, and rural communities, see the dedicated inclusion section before “Resources by Region.”
  • Save or print this guide. Keep the Quick help box at the top handy.

Emergency first steps in Virginia

Call 911 for any immediate danger

If there’s a fire, medical emergency, a crime in progress, or you’re unsafe, call 911. Stay on the line. If you can’t speak, leave the line open so the dispatcher can hear.

Call 988 for a mental health crisis

988 connects you with trained counselors 24/7 by phone or text. They can help you talk through suicidal thoughts, a panic attack, depression, or a caregiver stress crisis, and connect you to local help: https://988lifeline.org

Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation

Virginia’s Adult Protective Services (APS) is open 24/7 at 1-888-832-3858. You can report for yourself or someone you’re worried about. Learn what APS can do at the Virginia Department of Social Services APS page: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/abuse/aps.cgi

Find emergency shelter, food, or bill help fast

Dial 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Virginia at https://www.211virginia.org. Specialists can connect you to shelters, food pantries, prescription help, and local funds for rent or utilities. 2-1-1 keeps current local listings and can offer direct handoffs.

After a disaster (flooding, hurricane, tornado)

Reality check: Disaster money from FEMA isn’t fast and doesn’t replace all losses. Keep photos, receipts, and records. Watch for scams—never pay a “fee” for FEMA help. See the FTC’s disaster scam warnings: https://www.ftc.gov/disaster-scams


Energy and utilities: keep the lights and A/C on

Virginia has a mix of state and utility programs. Many have short application windows. If you’re facing a shutoff, call your utility today and ask about “medical certification,” “hardship plans,” and “assistance programs.” You can also file a complaint or learn your rights with the State Corporation Commission (SCC) Public Utility page: https://scc.virginia.gov/pages/Public-Utility

State Energy Assistance Program (EAP) — VDSS

Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program helps eligible households with:

  • Fuel Assistance (help with heating fuel costs)
  • Crisis Assistance (emergencies like a broken furnace, running out of fuel, or a pending shutoff)
  • Cooling Assistance (help with electric bills or cooling equipment in summer)

Application periods are seasonal and can change year to year. Typical timing: Fuel Assistance in fall, Crisis in winter, Cooling in summer. Apply online at CommonHelp or contact your local Department of Social Services. Details: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/ and apply at CommonHelp: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov

Reality check: Money can run out before the season ends. Apply early and keep proof of income, ID, and recent bills ready.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) — DHCD

Weatherization lowers bills by improving insulation, sealing drafts, and fixing health and safety issues (like ventilation). It’s free for eligible low-income homeowners and renters, including seniors. Work is provided by local nonprofits under the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Program info and local providers: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program

Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program (EHARP) — DHCD

EHARP funds urgent home repairs that affect health/safety and can add accessibility features (like ramps or grab bars). Priority is often given to seniors and people with disabilities. It’s delivered by local agencies under DHCD. See program page: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/emergency-home-and-accessibility-repair-program

Utility company hardship programs

Tip: Ask about equal pay/budget billing to smooth out high summer and winter bills. If you use medical equipment, ask your utility about registering as a medical-need customer.

Energy & Utility Help — quick comparison

Program What it covers Who it helps How to apply Learn more
VDSS Fuel, Crisis, Cooling (EAP) Seasonal bill help; crisis repairs Low-income households; seniors prioritized in practice when vulnerable Apply via CommonHelp or local DSS EAP overview: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/ • Apply: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov
Weatherization (DHCD WAP) Insulation, air sealing, safety fixes Income-eligible homeowners/renters Apply through local provider WAP: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program
EHARP (DHCD) Emergency repairs, accessibility Low-income, seniors/disabled Through local DHCD partners EHARP: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/emergency-home-and-accessibility-repair-program
Dominion EnergyShare Bill help/equipment Dominion VA customers in need Apply via partner agencies EnergyShare: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare
AEP Neighbor to Neighbor Bill help Appalachian Power VA customers Local partner agencies AEP assistance: https://www.appalachianpower.com/account/bills/pay/assistance

Food and basic needs

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) — VDSS

SNAP helps buy groceries using an EBT card. Many seniors qualify even with Social Security income, and there’s a simplified process for older adults with out-of-pocket medical costs. Apply online via CommonHelp, or contact your local DSS office. Info: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi and apply at https://commonhelp.virginia.gov

Reality check: Benefits vary by household size and income. Keep receipts for medical expenses if you’re 60+; they can increase your SNAP amount.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

CSFP provides a monthly “senior food box” with shelf-stable items for adults 60+ meeting income limits. In Virginia, distribution is done through local partners and food banks. See Virginia’s CSFP state contact via USDA and ask where to enroll near you: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/state-contacts

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

SFMNP provides coupons for fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets, for eligible seniors. Timing and availability vary by county and AAA. Learn about the federal program at USDA: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program and ask your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) if SFMNP is available this season: Virginia AAA directory: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/area-agencies-on-aging

Meals on Wheels and home-delivered meals

Home-delivered and congregate meals are run locally, commonly through your AAA. There may be a waitlist. Find your AAA or a local provider:

Food banks in Virginia

Feeding Virginia coordinates the state’s food bank network. Use the map to find a food bank and local pantry partners near you: https://www.feedingvirginia.org

Food and Nutrition — quick comparison

Program What it provides Who qualifies How to apply Learn more
SNAP (VDSS) Monthly EBT to buy food Income-eligible households; seniors may have medical deductions CommonHelp or local DSS SNAP VA: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi • Apply: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov
CSFP (Senior food box) Shelf-stable monthly box Age 60+ and income-eligible Through local CSFP agencies USDA CSFP VA contact: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/state-contacts
SFMNP Produce coupons Income-eligible seniors Through AAA if available USDA SFMNP: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program
Meals on Wheels Home-delivered meals Older adults with need (varies) Through local AAA/provider Find your AAA: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/area-agencies-on-aging

Health care, Medicare, Medicaid, and prescriptions

Free Medicare counseling — VICAP (Virginia’s SHIP)

VICAP offers unbiased counseling on Medicare Parts A–D, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Medicare Savings Programs. It’s free and run by the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) through local AAAs. Contact your local VICAP via the DARS page: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/virginia-insurance-counseling-and-assistance-program

Virginia Medicaid for seniors (Aged, Blind, and Disabled; long-term care)

If you have limited income/assets, Virginia Medicaid may cover doctor visits, hospital care, long-term services and supports (LTSS), home- and community-based services, and nursing facility care. Learn eligibility and apply via Cover Virginia: https://www.coverva.org/en/programs/medicaid-for-aged-blind-disabled

  • Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus (CCC Plus) is the managed care program for many seniors with complex needs. See Virginia Medicaid CCC Plus overview at DMAS: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov (navigate to Members > Long-Term Services and Supports > CCC Plus)

Rides to medical appointments (Medicaid NEMT)

If you have Virginia Medicaid, you can usually get free non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to covered appointments. The statewide broker is Modivcare; your health plan or Modivcare will schedule rides. See Modivcare Virginia: https://www.modivcare.com/transportation/our-locations/virginia and call your health plan member services for details.

Extra Help for Part D prescriptions (Low-Income Subsidy)

If you have Medicare and a limited income, the Social Security “Extra Help” program can reduce your Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays. Apply with Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/

Free and low-cost clinics

If you’re uninsured or underinsured, Virginia’s free and charitable clinics can help with medical, dental, and pharmacy services. Find a clinic through the Virginia Association of Free & Charitable Clinics: https://www.vafreeclinics.org/patients/find-a-clinic

Report Medicare fraud or billing errors

Virginia’s Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) helps you spot and report scams and billing problems. Learn more at DARS SMP: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/senior-medicare-patrol

Health and Medical Support — quick comparison

Program What it does Who it serves How to get help Learn more
VICAP (SHIP) Free Medicare counseling Medicare beneficiaries/caregivers Contact your local AAA VICAP: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/virginia-insurance-counseling-and-assistance-program
Medicaid (ABD, LTSS) Health/LTSS coverage Low-income seniors Apply via CoverVA https://www.coverva.org
Medicaid NEMT Rides to covered care Medicaid members Call plan or Modivcare https://www.modivcare.com/transportation/our-locations/virginia
Extra Help (LIS) Cuts Part D costs Medicare with limited income Apply with SSA https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
Free clinics Low/no-cost care Uninsured/underinsured Find a clinic https://www.vafreeclinics.org/patients/find-a-clinic

Reality check: Expect some paperwork and potential waits, especially for long-term care assessments and home-based services. Keep copies of ID, Social Security card, Medicare/Medicaid cards, recent bank statements, and medical bills.


Housing help, home safety, and aging-in-place

Emergency Home & Accessibility Repairs (EHARP) — DHCD

See details above in Energy section. EHARP can fund urgent health/safety repairs and accessibility modifications for eligible seniors. Program info: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/emergency-home-and-accessibility-repair-program

Weatherization Assistance (WAP) — DHCD

Reduces energy bills, improves comfort, and addresses some health/safety issues. Info and providers: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program

USDA Rural Development — Home Repair (Section 504)

If you live in a rural area and own your home, the Section 504 program offers loans and grants for repairs and health/safety improvements. Seniors 62+ may qualify for grants (no repayment) if they can’t afford a loan. Start here and choose Virginia: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants

Local tax relief and homestead exemptions

Many Virginia counties/cities offer real estate tax relief for homeowners who are elderly or disabled, based on income and assets. Rules are local. Check your county/city Commissioner of the Revenue or Treasurer’s website. For general Virginia individual tax information, see Virginia Tax: https://www.tax.virginia.gov

Tenant issues and eviction prevention

If you’re a renter facing eviction, get legal advice quickly. The Virginia Legal Aid network has self-help tools and local legal aid contacts: https://www.valegalaid.org. The statewide Eviction Legal Helpline (Virginia Poverty Law Center) can also guide tenants: https://evictionhelpline.org

Housing and Repairs — quick comparison

Program What it offers Who qualifies Where to start Learn more
EHARP (DHCD) Urgent repairs, accessibility Low-income homeowners; seniors prioritized Apply via local partner https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/emergency-home-and-accessibility-repair-program
Weatherization (WAP) Energy upgrades, safety fixes Income-eligible Local WAP agency https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program
USDA 504 Repair loans/grants Rural homeowners; 62+ may get grants USDA Rural Dev. VA https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Local tax relief Property tax reductions Local income/asset rules Your county/city Virginia Tax: https://www.tax.virginia.gov
Tenant help Legal advice, rights Renters Legal Aid VA https://www.valegalaid.org

Reality check: Funds are limited. Expect inspections and contractor scheduling. If you rent, get your landlord’s written approval for any modifications.


Money, benefits, and everyday bills


Transportation and mobility

Tip: If stairs are a challenge, ask your doctor for a simple note. Many paratransit systems require a form signed by a medical provider.


Mental health, safety, and elder rights

Warning: If someone pressures you to sign over property, open joint bank accounts, or change beneficiaries, pause and call APS or Legal Aid (https://www.valegalaid.org).


Special focus: veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, tribal members, rural seniors

Veteran seniors in Virginia

Reality check: VA claims can take months. A Virginia DVS service officer can help file correctly the first time, which often prevents delays.

LGBTQ+ seniors

  • Medicare and Medicaid cover care regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For Medicare rights info, start at https://www.medicare.gov
  • SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline offers support and resources (friendly, confidential): https://www.sageusa.org (navigate to Hotline for phone/chat details)
  • Local support and resource referrals: Equality Virginia provides statewide resource guides and policy updates: https://www.equalityvirginia.org
  • In Hampton Roads, the LGBT Life Center offers health and supportive services and can connect seniors to local programs: https://www.lgbtlifecenter.org

Tip: For hospital visits and decisions, consider completing advance directives and naming someone you trust. Virginia advance directive forms and info: https://www.virginiaadvancedirectives.org (run by a well-established coalition).

Tribal members and Native elders in Virginia

Reality check: Not all Virginia tribes operate Title VI programs or IHS clinics directly. Start with your tribal office; ask about elder meals, transportation, and benefits help.

Rural seniors and limited access

Tip: If you’re far from town, ask your AAA about home-delivered meals, wellness calls, and telehealth coaching. AAA directory: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/area-agencies-on-aging


Caregivers and grandfamilies


Resources by region (Virginia)

Use these starting points and call the main numbers on the linked pages for eligibility and intake. If a link is broken or you’re not sure who serves your county, dial 2-1-1.

Northern Virginia

Richmond and Central Virginia

Hampton Roads / Tidewater

Roanoke / New River Valley / Southwest

Shenandoah Valley / Piedmont / Charlottesville

Southside / Southern Piedmont / Eastern Shore


Application tips and reality checks

  • Be ready with documents: ID, Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency, income (award letters/bank statements), and recent bills.
  • Apply early for seasonal programs (Cooling Assistance, Fuel Assistance). When funds run out, the program closes even if you qualify.
  • If you’re denied, ask for the denial letter and file an appeal by the deadline shown. For help, contact your AAA or Legal Aid (https://www.valegalaid.org).
  • After disasters, only use official .gov or known .org sites and hotlines. No one from FEMA will charge you to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Virginia seniors

Q: How do I apply for Cooling Assistance in Virginia?
A: Cooling Assistance is part of VDSS’s Energy Assistance Program. Apply during the program window (typically summer) at CommonHelp (https://commonhelp.virginia.gov) or contact your local DSS. Program overview and dates are posted here: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/

Q: I can’t afford my electric bill and got a disconnection notice. What should I do first?
A: Call your utility right away and ask for a payment plan and to be screened for hardship programs (Dominion EnergyShare: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare; AEP Neighbor to Neighbor: https://www.appalachianpower.com/account/bills/pay/assistance). If it’s summer heat or winter cold, also check the VDSS Energy Assistance Program (https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/) and dial 2-1-1 for local charities (https://www.211virginia.org). If you rely on medical equipment, ask about “medical certification” to delay shutoff.

Q: Where do I get help choosing a Medicare plan in Virginia?
A: Contact VICAP (Virginia’s SHIP) for free counseling: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/virginia-insurance-counseling-and-assistance-program. They can review your drugs, doctors, and costs and check Extra Help eligibility.

Q: Is there help for home repairs so I can stay in my home?
A: Yes. Check DHCD’s Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program (https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/emergency-home-and-accessibility-repair-program) and Weatherization (https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program). If you live in a rural area and own your home, look at USDA’s Section 504 repair loans and grants: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants.

Q: I’m a veteran. Who can help me with Aid & Attendance paperwork?
A: A Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) benefits office can help for free: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov. You can also see the VA’s Aid & Attendance page for eligibility and forms: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.

Q: Does Virginia have an emergency cash program for seniors?
A: Virginia does not operate a stand-alone statewide “general relief” cash program for adults without minor children. If you’re caring for grandchildren, check TANF eligibility (via your local DSS), and for other needs, dial 2-1-1 (https://www.211virginia.org) to find local charity funds.

Q: How do I report suspected elder abuse or financial exploitation?
A: Call Virginia APS at 1-888-832-3858. Learn more about what APS covers at: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/abuse/aps.cgi. If the person is in immediate danger, call 911 first.

Q: I live far from a city. How do I find a doctor and transportation?
A: Start with your local public health district: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/local-health-districts/ for clinics and vaccinations. For rides, if you have Medicaid, call your plan or Modivcare (https://www.modivcare.com/transportation/our-locations/virginia). Otherwise, check DRPT’s transit directory for rural dial-a-ride options: https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/where and ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs.

Q: Are there programs to help with internet or phone service?
A: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is currently unfunded. Check status at the FCC: https://www.fcc.gov/acp. The federal Lifeline program still offers discounts for qualifying households: https://www.lifelinesupport.org.

Q: Where can I find the official list of senior service agencies in Virginia?
A: The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) lists all 25 Area Agencies on Aging and how to contact them: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/area-agencies-on-aging.


Extra reference tables

Virginia-wide senior help — who to call

Topic First stop Backup
Emergency shelter/food today 2-1-1 Virginia: https://www.211virginia.org Local AAA directory: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/area-agencies-on-aging
Energy bill shutoff Utility provider assistance page (Dominion/AEP/etc.) VDSS Energy Assistance: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
Medicare decisions VICAP (DARS) Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov
Medicaid eligibility Cover Virginia Local DSS via CommonHelp
Home repairs DHCD EHARP USDA 504 (rural)
Legal help (eviction/benefits) Virginia Legal Aid: https://www.valegalaid.org Long-Term Care Ombudsman (facility issues): https://www.dars.virginia.gov/aging-services/long-term-care-ombudsman
Mental health crisis 988 Local CSB via DBHDS

Core state portals (bookmark these)

Purpose Link
Apply for benefits (SNAP/Medicaid/Energy) https://commonhelp.virginia.gov
Find local services https://www.211virginia.org
Aging services hub (DARS) https://www.dars.virginia.gov
Emergency management https://www.vaemergency.gov

Sources


Disclaimer

Programs, dates, and eligibility rules change. Funding can run out. This guide links to official sources so you can check the latest details. Always confirm information directly with the agency or program before you apply or make decisions.


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
  • Sources Verified: 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.

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.