Grants for Seniors in Columbus

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Columbus, Ohio (2026 Authority Guide)

Last updated: December 28, 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

• Life‑threatening emergency: Call 911
• Mental health or substance use crisis: Call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Immediate local help (food, shelter, bills): Call 2‑1‑1 or visit LSS 211 Central Ohio
  • Descriptive link: LSS 211 Central Ohio
• Facing utility shutoff or no heat: Apply right away at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov (HEAP, PIPP Plus, crisis)
• Homelessness or at risk in Columbus/Franklin County: Contact Community Shelter Board Coordinated Intake
  • Descriptive link: Community Shelter Board
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult: Report to Adult Protective Services (county contact via state directory)
  • Descriptive link: Ohio APS Directory

Key Takeaways

• Start local for fast help: Call 2‑1‑1 (LSS 211 Central Ohio). For in‑home care, meals, and aging services, call the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA).
• Use Ohio’s official portals: Apply for SNAP/Medicaid at the Ohio Benefits Portal; apply for HEAP/PIPP Plus at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov; find affordable apartments at OhioHousingLocator.org.
• Columbus‑specific help: Franklin County Office on Aging (Senior Options) funds in‑home support and transportation. IMPACT Community Action helps with energy bills and weatherization. LifeCare Alliance runs Meals‑on‑Wheels.
• Housing: Apply to Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) for vouchers/public housing. City of Columbus Housing Division and partners can help with critical home repairs and accessibility.
• Medicare: Get free counseling from OSHIIP to compare plans and drug costs. Low‑income Medicare enrollees should ask about Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help.
• Use free, unbiased help: OSHIIP (Medicare), Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (care complaints), Pro Seniors and Legal Aid Society of Columbus (legal help).
• Reality check: Many programs have waitlists or limited funding. Apply early, submit complete documents, and keep copies and case numbers.

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How to Use This Guide

• Skim the Quick‑Start Table to find where to apply first.
• Use the official links and phone numbers in each section.
• Not sure where to start? Call the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging. They can screen you and connect you with multiple programs.

Quick‑Start Table: Where to Apply First

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Columbus Seniors at a Glance

• Ohio has about 2.21 million residents ages 65+ (18.8%). About 10.7% are below poverty, and 32.4% live with a disability (ACS 2023). Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2023, Table S0101
• Reality check: Program rules and funding change. Local programs may have priority lists. It’s normal to make multiple calls and follow up.

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Money, Discounts, and Taxes

Golden Buckeye Card

• What it is: Free statewide discount card honored by participating merchants.
• Who qualifies: Age 60+ or adults 18–59 with a qualifying disability.
• Learn more and find participating businesses: Ohio Department of Aging – Golden Buckeye

Reality check: Discounts vary. Always ask at the register.

Property Tax Relief: Homestead Exemption

• What it is: Reduces property taxes on your primary home if you meet age/disability and income rules.
• Where to apply: Through your county auditor.
  • State program details: Ohio Department of Taxation – Homestead Exemption
  • Franklin County application: Franklin County Auditor – Homestead Exemption

Tip: Gather proof of income, ID, and deed or owner record.

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Health Coverage and Long‑Term Care

Medicare (Primary coverage for most people 65+)

• Parts A & B (Original Medicare): Hospital and medical insurance.
• Part D: Prescription drugs.
• Medicare Advantage (Part C): Private plans that include A & B and often Part D; may add vision, hearing, dental, fitness, and limited rides.

Free counseling and plan comparisons:

• OSHIIP – Medicare help (State of Ohio)
• Medicare Plan Finder

Tip: Review drug plans each fall. Formularies, premiums, and pharmacy networks change.

Ohio Medicaid for Seniors (Aged, Blind, or Disabled – ABD)

• What it is: Medicaid coverage for low‑income seniors and people with disabilities; may help pay Medicare premiums and cost‑sharing.
• Apply/renew: Ohio Medicaid – Consumer site; Phone: 1‑800‑324‑8680

Home‑ and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) for Older Adults

• PASSPORT Waiver: In‑home support like personal care, homemaker, meals, emergency response to help you stay at home instead of a nursing home.
• Assisted Living Waiver: Helps pay for services in licensed assisted living (not room and board).
• Start here: Ohio Department of Aging – PASSPORT & HCBS
• Local help and assessments: Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA)

Long‑Term Care Ombudsman

• What they do: Resolve complaints and protect rights in nursing homes, assisted living, and in‑home services.
• State contact and regional referrals: Ohio Long‑Term Care Ombudsman

Mental Health and Substance Use

• Immediate help: Call or text 988.
• Local services and treatment: Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services

Health Coverage at a Glance

Reality check: Waivers can have waitlists. Ask COAAA about interim services while you wait (meals, personal care via other funding).

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Food and Nutrition in Columbus

• SNAP (Food Assistance): Monthly benefits on an EBT card.
  • Apply: Ohio Benefits – Apply for SNAP
  • Program info: ODJFS Food Assistance
• Meals‑on‑Wheels and Senior Dining: LifeCare Alliance runs Meals‑on‑Wheels in Central Ohio; referrals often through COAAA.
  • Learn more: LifeCare Alliance – Meals‑on‑Wheels; COAAA – Find Help
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly shelf‑stable food box for eligible seniors.
  • State info: ODJFS – CSFP
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce coupons redeemable at participating markets.
  • Program details: Ohio Department of Aging – SFMNP
• Foodbanks and pantries: Mid‑Ohio Food Collective serves Franklin and surrounding counties.
  • Find locations: Mid‑Ohio Food Collective – Get Help; or call 2‑1‑1

Food Programs at a Glance

Tip: If you’re close to qualifying for SNAP, list your out‑of‑pocket medical costs. This can increase your benefit.

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Housing, Home Repair, and Utilities

Finding Affordable Rentals

• Statewide search: OhioHousingLocator.org (filter for senior and income‑restricted units).
• Columbus vouchers and public housing: Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA)
  • Descriptive link: CMHA – Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority
  • Reality check: Waitlists open and close. Sign up for alerts, apply when open, and keep your contact info updated.
• HUD programs and resources in Ohio: HUD – Ohio

Home Repair and Accessibility

• City of Columbus Housing programs: Emergency/critical repairs, accessibility modifications, and rehab are often funded through the City’s Housing Division and delivered by partner nonprofits.
  • Learn more: City of Columbus – Housing Division
• Franklin County Office on Aging (Senior Options): Can help fund in‑home support and connect to minor home safety fixes for eligible residents.
  • Program hub: Franklin County Office on Aging – Senior Options
• Nonprofit partners:
  • Modcon Living – Safe at Home (minor home repair and accessibility for older adults)
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants):
  • Grants: For very low‑income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards (repay if you sell within 3 years).
  • Loans: Very low‑interest loans for very low‑income homeowners (any age).
  • How to apply in Ohio: USDA 504 Home Repair – Ohio

Tip: Gather proof of ownership, income, and photos of issues. Ask about ramps, grab bars, and fall‑prevention fixes.

Utility Bills and Home Energy

• HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): Help with heating and cooling bills; crisis programs during shutoff/no‑heat situations.
  • Apply/manage: EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov
• PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan): Income‑based monthly payment plan for regulated electric and gas utilities.
  • Program info: EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov – PIPP Plus
• Local help applying: IMPACT Community Action (Franklin County’s primary HEAP/PIPP assistance agency)
  • Descriptive link: IMPACT Community Action
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy‑saving improvements (insulation, air sealing, HVAC safety).
  • Program info: Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance Program (Department of Development)
• Utility company assistance:
  • AEP Ohio – Payment Assistance Programs
  • Columbia Gas of Ohio – WarmChoice (free weatherization for eligible households)
• City of Columbus utility discounts:
  • Low‑income water/sewer/stormwater discounts and senior discounts:
  • Learn/apply: City of Columbus Utilities – Utility Discount Programs

Housing & Utilities Options

Reality check: Repair programs often prioritize health and safety issues first (e.g., no heat, hazardous wiring, major leaks). Cosmetic work is rarely funded.

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Transportation in Columbus

• COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority): Bus service across Columbus; reduced fare for seniors (65+ with ID).
  • Reduced fare info: COTA – Reduced Fare
  • Paratransit for riders with disabilities: COTA Mainstream
• Area Agency on Aging rides: Essential trips like medical and grocery. Start with COAAA – Find Help.
• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Rides to covered medical visits for Medicaid members (through your managed care plan).
  • Learn more: Ohio Medicaid – NEMT
• Mobility planning: Statewide help to find options that fit your needs.
  • Program overview: Ohio Mobility Management Program (ODOT)

Tip: Book rides early. Ask about same‑day options (usually limited). Bring your Medicaid card for NEMT.

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Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Dental care:
  • Dental Lifeline Network – Ohio (donated care for seniors and people with disabilities who cannot afford treatment)
  • The Ohio State University College of Dentistry – Patient Care (reduced‑fee teaching clinics)
  • Community health centers with dental: Find a Health Center (HRSA)
• Vision:
  • Prevent Blindness – Get Help (screenings, vouchers in some areas)
• Hearing:
  • Check local Lions Clubs for hearing aid help.
  • Phone/internet discount for low‑income households: Lifeline (USAC)

Reality check: Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, most vision care, or hearing aids. Some Medicare Advantage plans include limited benefits—compare carefully with OSHIIP.

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Work, Income, and Training

• SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Paid, part‑time training for unemployed adults 55+ with low income.
  • State info: Ohio Department of Aging – SCSEP
• Job search and re‑employment:
  • OhioMeansJobs Columbus‑Franklin County – Local career services and workshops
  • State portal: OhioMeansJobs

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Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Elder Rights

• Free legal help for seniors:
  • Pro Seniors Legal Helpline
  • Legal Aid Society of Columbus
• Consumer protection/scams:
  • Ohio Attorney General – Consumer Protection
  • Report fraud: FTC – Report Fraud
• Elder abuse, neglect, exploitation: Report via Ohio APS Directory
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (care complaints and billing issues): Ohio LTC Ombudsman
• Plain‑language guides and referrals: Ohio Legal Help

Tip: Keep copies of leases, notices, medical bills, and letters. Write down names, dates, and case numbers for calls.

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Inclusive Supports

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Inclusive healthcare and support:
  • Equitas Health (multiple Columbus locations)
  • Stonewall Columbus (community center and resources)
• Medicare help without sales pitch: OSHIIP – Free Medicare Help

Veteran Seniors

• Local help: Franklin County Veterans Service Commission (emergency financial help, transportation, claims assistance)
• State services: Ohio Department of Veterans Services
• Federal VA:
  • VA Aid & Attendance (pension add‑on for daily living help)
  • VA Disability Housing Grants (home modification or purchase for service‑connected disabilities)

Tip: Work with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) to file claims.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Medicaid ABD and HCBS waivers (PASSPORT, Assisted Living) via COAAA and Ohio Medicaid.
• Social Security disability programs: SSA – Disability Benefits
• ABLE savings for disability‑related expenses (if eligible): STABLE Account – Ohio Treasurer

Native/Tribal Elders in Columbus

• Urban supports: Native American Indian Center of Central Ohio (NAICCO)
• Health services (nearest facilities may be out‑of‑state): Indian Health Service – Find Health Care
• Title VI Native American aging programs directory (nationwide): ACL – Title VI Directory

Note: Ohio has no federally recognized tribes headquartered in‑state, but Native elders living in Columbus can still use the above resources.

Rural Seniors in Central Ohio

If you live outside the I‑270 belt (e.g., parts of Madison, Union, Fairfield, Licking, Pickaway):

• Start with COAAA for in‑home care and meals: COAAA – Find Help
• Energy and weatherization help: Ohio HWAP; contact your local Community Action Agency via Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies – Find Your Agency
• Broadband updates and projects: BroadbandOhio (Department of Development)
• Telehealth and mobile clinics: Ask COAAA and check HRSA – Find a Health Center

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Documents You’ll Usually Need

• Photo ID, proof of age
• Proof of Ohio residency (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
• Bank statements/assets (if required)
• Medicare and/or Medicaid cards
• For housing: landlord info, household members, past addresses
• For home repair: deed or proof of ownership, photos of issues

Tip: Keep a folder (paper or digital). Write down case numbers, names, and dates of calls.

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Real‑World Example

“James, 74, from the Hilltop, living on Social Security, got a shutoff notice and needs safer stairs.”

1. Called 2‑1‑1 and was connected to IMPACT Community Action to apply for HEAP and PIPP Plus at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov. A crisis appointment stopped the shutoff.
2. Contacted COAAA to ask about Meals‑on‑Wheels and a PASSPORT screening.
3. Referred to Modcon Living’s Safe at Home program for grab bars and a handrail while applying for USDA Section 504 for additional safety repairs.
4. Met with OSHIIP to review Part D plans; switched to a plan covering his main prescriptions at lower cost.

Results vary, but combining several programs often works best.

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Regional Resources in and around Columbus

• Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) – serves Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Licking, Madison, Pickaway, Union counties
• Franklin County Office on Aging – Senior Options (in‑home support and transportation for eligible adults 60+)
• Affordable rentals: OhioHousingLocator.org
• Transit:
  • COTA (buses) – Reduced Fare and COTA Mainstream paratransit
• Energy and weatherization: IMPACT Community Action (HEAP/PIPP); Ohio HWAP
• Food:
  • Mid‑Ohio Food Collective – Find Food
  • LifeCare Alliance – Meals‑on‑Wheels and dining centers
• Housing authority:
  • Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA)

For resources beyond Columbus, call 2‑1‑1 or check statewide directories in the Resources section.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I get in‑home help so I can stay out of a nursing home?

• Start with COAAA to request an assessment for PASSPORT or other programs: COAAA – Find Help. These look at your care needs and your income/assets.

Q: I can’t afford my Medicare plan or prescriptions. What can I do?

• Ask about Medicare Savings Programs (help with Part B) and Extra Help (for Part D). Contact Ohio Medicaid and get free counseling from OSHIIP. Apply for Extra Help at SSA – Extra Help.

Q: Can renters get energy help and weatherization?

• Yes. Renters can apply for HEAP and PIPP at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov. Weatherization is available with landlord permission: Ohio HWAP.

Q: Is there help for home safety repairs?

• Yes. Very low‑income homeowners 62+ can check USDA Section 504 grants; others may qualify for loans. In Columbus, ask the City Housing Division and COAAA about accessibility programs, and contact Modcon Living – Safe at Home.

Q: My landlord raised the rent. Can anyone help?

• Ask CMHA about vouchers and public housing (when waitlists open) and search OhioHousingLocator.org. For legal advice, contact Legal Aid Society of Columbus and Pro Seniors.

Q: How do I get a ride to the doctor?

• If you have Medicaid, contact your plan for NEMT: Ohio Medicaid – NEMT. Otherwise, ask COAAA about senior rides and use COTA/COTA Mainstream.

Q: I need dentures and can’t afford them.

• See Dental Lifeline Network – Ohio and the OSU College of Dentistry – Patient Care. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer limited dental; compare plans with OSHIIP.

Q: Do I qualify for Homestead property tax savings?

• Check age/disability and income rules and apply with the Franklin County Auditor – Homestead Exemption. Statewide details are at Ohio Homestead Exemption.

Q: I got an electric shutoff notice. What’s fastest?

• Apply for crisis help at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov and call 2‑1‑1. Have your account number and the shutoff notice ready. IMPACT Community Action may schedule a crisis appointment.

Q: Who can help with nursing home complaints or billing?

• Contact the Ohio Long‑Term Care Ombudsman. They can advocate for you.

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Key Phone Numbers and Links (Save This)

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Resources (Official Sources and Directories)

Benefits and applications

• Ohio Benefits Portal (SNAP, Medicaid, Cash)
• Ohio Medicaid – Consumer site; Medicaid NEMT
• EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov (HEAP, PIPP, Crisis)
• Lifeline (USAC)

Aging, care, and protection

• Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA)
• Ohio Department of Aging – Find Services; PASSPORT & HCBS; SFMNP; Golden Buckeye
• Ohio Long‑Term Care Ombudsman
• Adult Protective Services – Ohio APS Directory

Housing

• City of Columbus – Housing Division
• Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA)
• OhioHousingLocator.org (OHFA)
• HUD – Ohio
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair – Ohio
• Modcon Living – Safe at Home

Food

• ODJFS – Food Assistance; CSFP
• Mid‑Ohio Food Collective – Get Help
• LifeCare Alliance – Meals‑on‑Wheels
• Ohio Department of Aging – Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

Health

• OSHIIP – Medicare help
• Medicare Plan Finder
• SSA – Extra Help (Part D)
• Ohio MHAS
• HRSA – Find a Health Center
• OSU College of Dentistry – Patient Care
• Dental Lifeline Network – Ohio
• Prevent Blindness – Get Help

Utilities

• IMPACT Community Action
• AEP Ohio – Payment Assistance
• Columbia Gas of Ohio – WarmChoice
• Columbus Utilities – Utility Discount Programs
• Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance Program

Veterans

• Franklin County Veterans Service Commission
• Ohio Department of Veterans Services
• VA – Aid & Attendance
• VA – Disability Housing Grants

Inclusive resources

• Equitas Health
• Stonewall Columbus
• STABLE Account (Ohio ABLE)
• NAICCO
• ACL – Title VI Directory

Employment and training

• Ohio Department of Aging – SCSEP
• OhioMeansJobs Columbus‑Franklin County
• OhioMeansJobs

Taxes and discounts

• Ohio Homestead Exemption
• Franklin County Auditor – Homestead Exemption
• Golden Buckeye Program

Data/statistics

• U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2023 (Ohio, Table S0101)

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

• Waitlists are common for housing vouchers, some repair programs, and in‑home care waivers. Apply early and keep your contact info updated.
• Many programs require re‑verification each year (PIPP Plus, some city utility discounts). Set reminders.
• If a link changes, search the agency name on its official .gov or .org site. Avoid paid ads that imitate official sites.
• Keep a simple benefits log: programs applied for, case numbers, dates, and who you spoke with.

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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.

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice. Program availability, eligibility, and amounts can change at any time. Always verify details with the official agency.