Grants for Seniors in Denver
Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Denver, Colorado (2026 Guide)
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
If You Need Emergency Help
- Call 911 for immediate danger or a medical emergency.
- Crisis and community resources: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the 211 resource directory: Find help at 211 Colorado.
- Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Report to Adult Protective Services at (844) 264-5437 or see Adult Protective Services — Colorado Department of Human Services.
- Homelessness or at risk of losing housing (Denver): Contact Denver Human Services or call (720) 944-3666. For emergency shelter info, dial 2-1-1.
- Utility shutoff crisis: Apply for LEAP and crisis help via Colorado LEAP and call your utility:
- Xcel Energy customer support: (800) 895-4999 — see Xcel Energy Bill Assistance.
- Denver Water Customer Care: (303) 893-2444 — see Denver Water — Customer Assistance.
- Food right now:
- Find a pantry: Food Bank of the Rockies — Find Food.
- Meals on Wheels Denver: VOA Colorado Meals Programs or call (303) 297-0408.
Key Takeaways
- Denver seniors have access to strong statewide programs (Old Age Pension, Health First Colorado/Medicaid, SNAP, LEAP) plus city programs like rent and utility help (TRUA) and senior transportation through RTD.
- Housing help exists but wait times are long. Apply early and get on multiple waitlists (Denver Housing Authority, Section 202 senior housing, and city programs).
- Health coverage and in-home support are available through Health First Colorado, the EBD Waiver, and (for some) the Home Care Allowance.
- Food assistance is practical and fairly quick to access (SNAP, TEFAP distribution, and Meals on Wheels), but plan for re-certifications and paperwork.
- Be cautious with scams (Medicare marketing, utility impostors, paid “benefit help”). Verify with official agencies and never pay upfront fees for public benefits applications.
How to Use This Guide
- Start with the “Quick Start” table for 3–5 high-impact programs.
- Then check the “Income & Asset Snapshot” table to see what you may qualify for.
- Use the program sections for step-by-step application tips and links.
- Don’t skip the “Reality Checks & Tips” — they can save you time and stress.
- See “Resources by Region (Denver Metro)” for trusted local contacts.
Quick Start: 5 High-Impact Programs for Denver Seniors
These are the best starting points for many older adults living on fixed incomes.
| Program | What It Does | Typical Benefit | Who Qualifies (summary) | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Pension (OAP) | Monthly cash assistance for low-income adults 60+ | Up to about $1,005/month (2025) | Age 60+, low income/assets, CO resident | Apply via Colorado PEAK or your county; program details: CDHS OAP |
| Health First Colorado (Medicaid) | Health coverage; may include transport and dental emergencies | Comprehensive coverage | Income and assets within limits; many SSI recipients qualify automatically | Health First Colorado; apply via PEAK |
| SNAP (Food Assistance) | Monthly grocery funds on an EBT card | About 23–23–291/month for one person (2025) | 60+ with income and assets within higher senior limits | SNAP in Colorado (CDHS) or apply via PEAK |
| LEAP (Energy Assistance) | Helps pay heating/cooling bills; crisis help | Around 300–300–800/season, more for crises | Income within limits; you pay a heating/cooling bill | Colorado LEAP |
| Denver TRUA (Rent & Utilities) | City help with rent, deposit, and utilities to prevent eviction/shutoff | Varies by need and funding | Low/moderate-income Denver households at risk | See Denver Housing/Resident Resources or call 3-1-1 (in Denver) for current TRUA details |
Notes:
- Amounts and eligibility can change. Always confirm on the official program page.
- OAP and SNAP can stack together. OAP counts as income for SNAP, but seniors with medical deductions often still qualify for meaningful SNAP benefits.
Income & Asset Snapshot (Denver Seniors)
Reference ranges below are commonly used across Colorado in 2025. Always verify current figures before applying.
| Program | Age | Monthly Income Limit (Individual) | Assets (Individual) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Pension (OAP) | 60+ | ~$1,005 | $2,000 | CDHS OAP |
| Health First Colorado (Medicaid) | 65+ | ~$1,732 | $2,000 | Health First Colorado |
| EBD Waiver (HCBS) | Any | Up to 300% of SSI (≈$2,829) | $2,000 | HCPF — HCBS Waivers |
| SNAP (Senior rules) | 60+ | ~$1,732 gross | $4,500 (higher senior limit) | CDHS SNAP |
| LEAP | Any | ~185% FPL | N/A | CDHS LEAP |
Tip:
- Asset limits generally exclude your primary home and one car. Check each program’s rules.
Housing in Denver: What to Expect and Where to Apply
Housing costs in Denver are high. Most programs have long waits. Apply early to multiple options.
Denver Housing Authority (DHA) — Section 8 and Public Housing
- What it is: DHA manages Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and public housing; seniors typically pay about 30% of income for rent.
- Reality check: Waitlists often open briefly and close for long periods. Wait times can be several years.
- How to use it:
- Monitor waitlist status and apply when open: Denver Housing Authority.
- Keep documents current. Update any address/phone changes.
- Consider DHA’s senior-designated buildings when available.
HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing (Senior Apartments)
- What it is: Federally funded senior apartments (62+) with affordable rent and on-site supports.
- Reality check: Separate waitlists for each building. Wait can be 1–4 years or longer.
- How to find:
- Search senior housing via HUD and local providers: HUD Senior Housing Programs.
- Ask DRCOG’s Area Agency on Aging for a current list: DRCOG AAA | (303) 455-1000.
City & County of Denver — TRUA (Temporary Rent & Utility Assistance)
- What it is: Short-term help with rent, deposit, and utilities to prevent eviction or shutoff.
- Who it helps: Low-to-moderate income Denver residents facing a housing crisis.
- How to apply: See the city’s housing resource hub for current TRUA info and partners: Denver Housing — Resident Resources. You can also dial 3-1-1 in Denver.
State Property Tax/Rent/Heat Credit (PTC) Rebate
- What it is: Annual state rebate for seniors and people with disabilities who pay property tax, rent, or heating costs.
- Amounts/eligibility: See current limits and forms here: Colorado PTC Rebate.
- Tip: You can claim even if you don’t owe state income tax.
USDA Section 504 (For Homeowners — rural): If you own a home in a USDA-eligible rural part of the metro fringe, grants may help with repairs and accessibility. Check eligibility and apply with USDA Rural Development Colorado.
Housing Snapshot for Seniors (Denver Area)
| Program | What It Covers | Typical Wait/Timing | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHA Section 8 Voucher | Rent subsidy | Often years; lists open/close | Denver Housing Authority |
| DHA Public/Senior Housing | Income-based rent | Often years | Denver Housing Authority |
| HUD Section 202 | Senior apartments + supports | 1–4+ years | HUD Senior Housing |
| TRUA (City Program) | Short-term rent/utility help | Weeks, based on funding | Denver Housing — Resident Resources |
| State PTC Rebate | Annual refund for housing/heat | Files Jan–Apr | Colorado PTC Rebate |
Reality check:
- In Denver, you may need a “bridge plan” while waiting: apply for OAP, SNAP, LEAP, and seek roommate/shared housing options. Ask senior centers and AAAs for lists of shared housing programs and landlord contacts.
Cash Assistance and Income Boosters
Old Age Pension (OAP)
- What it is: Colorado’s main cash assistance for low-income adults 60+.
- Typical benefit: Up to about $1,005/month (2025 figure used across statewide guidance).
- Includes: Access to OAP-B (medical coverage) for those not eligible for Medicaid.
- Apply: Colorado PEAK or your county office. Program info: CDHS — Old Age Pension.
Tips:
- OAP cannot be combined with SSI at the same time. If you’re unsure which fits you best, ask your caseworker or Colorado Legal Services.
- Recertify on time to avoid interruptions.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- What it is: Federal monthly payments for older adults (65+) and people with disabilities with very limited income and assets.
- Apply: Social Security Administration — SSI or call (800) 772-1213. Local SSA offices can help set appointments.
Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)
- What it is: Paid part-time training jobs for adults 55+ with low income.
- Pay: At least minimum wage for ~20 hours/week at nonprofit/government host sites.
- Start: Colorado Department of Labor & Employment — Older Worker Programs or contact Colorado Department of Human Services for SCSEP referrals.
Food and Nutrition
SNAP (Food Assistance)
- What it is: Monthly grocery funds via EBT card. Senior rules allow higher asset limits and deductions for medical costs.
- Apply: Colorado PEAK or learn more at CDHS — SNAP.
- Tip: Keep receipts for out-of-pocket medical costs; seniors can get a standard medical deduction or actual expenses over $35/month to increase benefits.
Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals (Denver)
- Meals on Wheels Denver: Home-delivered meals and safety checks. Apply or learn more at VOA Colorado Meals Programs or call (303) 297-0408.
- Congregate/Senior Dining Sites: DRCOG AAA can direct you to nearby senior meal sites: DRCOG AAA — Nutrition Services | (303) 455-1000.
TEFAP Food Boxes and Pantries
- What it is: Monthly USDA commodity foods via food banks and pantries.
- Find a site (Denver/Front Range): Food Bank of the Rockies — Find Food.
- Program info: CDHS — TEFAP.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (Seasonal)
- What it is: Produce vouchers for use at approved farmers markets during summer/fall.
- Learn more: CDHS — Older Adult Nutrition Programs and ask DRCOG AAA for local voucher info.
Reality check:
- Pantry lines can be long near month’s end. Go early, bring bags, and ask about delivery options if you’re homebound.
Health Coverage and In-Home Care
Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
- What it is: Medical coverage for eligible low-income seniors; can work with Medicare to reduce costs.
- Apply: Health First Colorado or via PEAK.
- Find providers: Call Provider Services at (800) 221-3943 or search your plan’s directory.
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
- What they do: Pay some or all of your Medicare Part B premium and possibly other costs if your income is limited.
- Apply: Through your county or Colorado PEAK. Learn more at HCPF — Buy-In/Medicare Savings.
HCBS EBD Waiver (Home and Community-Based Services — Elderly, Blind, and Disabled)
- What it is: In-home care and supports for those who meet nursing facility level of care but want to remain at home.
- Services: Personal care, homemaker, adult day, respite, home modifications, medical equipment, case management.
- Learn/apply: HCPF — EBD Waiver. Start by contacting your local Single Entry Point/Case Management Agency (DRCOG AAA can guide you).
Dental Care for Low-Income Seniors
- State program: Preventive and basic care for low-income seniors not covered by Medicaid dental.
- Learn more and eligibility: Colorado HCPF — Senior Dental Program or call HCPF Customer Contact Center (800) 221-3943 for referrals.
- Low-cost community clinics near Denver:
- Denver Health Dental
- Clinica Family Health
- STRIDE Community Health Center (formerly MCPN)
- CU School of Dental Medicine Clinics — reduced fees
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- For Health First Colorado members without transportation to medical appointments.
- Schedule trips: See HCPF — NEMT or call your regional NEMT broker (info on that page).
Reality check:
- Waiver programs can take weeks to months to set up because of assessments and provider availability. Ask about interim services and get on provider waitlists early.
Utilities, Energy, Water, and Internet/Phone
LEAP (Low-Income Energy Assistance Program)
- Heating/cooling bill help; crisis funds may be available year-round.
- Apply: Colorado LEAP.
Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC)
- Bill payment assistance and furnace repair/replacement through local partners.
- Start here: Energy Outreach Colorado or call (866) 432-8435.
Xcel Energy Customer Assistance
- Budget billing, payment plans, and assistance referrals.
- Learn more: Xcel Energy — Energy Assistance | (800) 895-4999.
Denver Water Customer Assistance
- Payment assistance for eligible low-income customers.
- Learn more: Denver Water — Customer Assistance | (303) 893-2444.
Lifeline (Phone/Internet Discount)
- Federal monthly discount on phone or internet service for low-income households.
- Important: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended due to lack of funding in 2024. Lifeline still exists.
- Learn more and apply: FCC Lifeline Program.
Transportation in Denver
| Service | What It Does | Senior Benefit | How to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTD Buses & Rail | Public transit across Denver metro | Discount fares for 65+ (ID required) | RTD Senior Fares |
| Access‑a‑Ride | Door-to-door paratransit for riders unable to use fixed routes | Reduced paratransit fares | RTD Access‑a‑Ride |
| DRMAC | Transit info/help desk and travel training | Trip planning and mobility guides | Denver Regional Mobility & Access Council |
| NEMT (Medicaid) | Medical rides for Health First Colorado members | No-cost medical trips | HCPF — NEMT |
Tips:
- Apply for Access‑a‑Ride well before you need it; in-person assessments may be required.
- Ask DRCOG AAA or DRMAC about volunteer driver programs and ride vouchers.
Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Elder Safety
- Colorado Legal Services: Free civil legal help (housing, benefits appeals, elder abuse/financial exploitation). Colorado Legal Services | Statewide intake: (303) 837-1313.
- Senior Law Clinics (local bar associations): Ask DRCOG AAA for current clinics (wills, powers of attorney, Medicare/Medicaid issues).
- Colorado Attorney General — Consumer Protection: Report scams, get help with fraud. CO AG Consumer Protection | (720) 508-6000.
- Adult Protective Services: Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation. CDHS APS | (844) 264-5437.
Scam red flags:
- Upfront fees for benefit applications (real programs never charge).
- Gift card or crypto payment requests.
- “Guaranteed approval” claims.
- Unsolicited callers asking for Social Security or bank info. Hang up and call the official number yourself.
Inclusive Support
Disabled Seniors
- Priority access and accommodations exist across many programs (SNAP rules, paratransit, waiver services).
- Start with: HCPF — Long‑Term Services & Supports and DRCOG AAA.
- For accessibility home changes: Ask about HCBS-funded home mods or city rehab programs; HUD Section 504 home modifications for renters may be available through landlords.
Veteran Seniors
- VA medical care and benefits: VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System | (303) 399-8020.
- Benefits and claims help (free): Colorado Dept. of Military & Veterans Affairs | (303) 343-7142.
- Aid & Attendance (extra pension for care needs): VA Pension — Aid and Attendance.
- State veterans nursing homes: Colorado State Veterans Homes.
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Friendly services and social supports:
- The Center on Colfax (LGBTQ+ programs, social groups): The Center on Colfax.
- SAGE national resources (connects older LGBTQ+ adults to local supports): SAGE USA.
- Ask DRCOG AAA for LGBTQ+-affirming providers and meal sites.
American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) Seniors in Denver
- Urban Indian support:
- Denver Indian Center: workforce, elders programming, community events: Denver Indian Center.
- Denver Indian Health and Family Services (DIHFS): primary care, behavioral health, elder care coordination: DIHFS.
- IHS and tribal benefits coordination: Ask DIHFS about eligibility and referrals; Medicare/Medicaid can coordinate with IHS services.
Seniors with Limited Access (Homebound or Tech Barriers)
- Ask for phone or home-visit options: DRCOG AAA and Denver Human Services can assist with applications via phone and sometimes home visits.
- Use libraries for computer access and scanning documents. Denver Public Library has tech help: Denver Public Library.
- Request paper applications if online systems are hard to use.
Denver-Specific Programs and Services to Know
- Denver Human Services (DHS): Benefits help, adult protection, and connections to housing and food resources. Denver Human Services.
- DenverConnect (mobile resource bus): City outreach that visits neighborhoods to help with benefits and services. Check schedules via Denver Human Services or call 3-1-1.
- Denver Parks & Recreation — Active Older Adults: Low-cost fitness and social programs at rec centers. Active Older Adults — Denver Parks & Rec.
- Senior centers and congregate meal sites: Contact DRCOG AAA for an updated list and hours.
Application Tips, Reality Checks, and Timing
- Documents that speed approvals:
- Government ID, Social Security card/award letter, proof of address, last 3 months of bank statements, benefit letters, rent/lease and utility bills, medical expense receipts.
- Timing:
- LEAP opens Nov–Apr; apply early (funds can run low by late winter).
- Housing waitlists: apply immediately when open; set calendar alerts for re-confirmations.
- If denied:
- Appeal deadlines are short. Read the notice and call the agency right away.
- Get free help from Colorado Legal Services.
- Combine programs:
- Many seniors stack OAP + SNAP + LEAP + low-cost transit. Housing aid takes longer; get on the lists now.
Tables: Fast Reference
A) Where to Apply Online
| Need | Portal |
|---|---|
| SNAP, Medicaid, OAP, Cash & Food, many benefits | Colorado PEAK |
| Health First Colorado info | Health First Colorado |
| Housing (Denver) | Denver Housing Authority |
| City housing/rent help | Denver Housing — Resident Resources |
| Legal help | Colorado Legal Services |
| Food pantries | Food Bank of the Rockies — Find Food |
B) Phone Directory (Denver & State)
| Agency/Program | Phone |
|---|---|
| Denver Human Services | (720) 944-3666 |
| DRCOG Area Agency on Aging | (303) 455-1000 |
| Colorado PEAK help | (800) 221-3943 (HCPF) |
| Adult Protective Services (24/7) | (844) 264-5437 |
| 2-1-1 Resource Line | 2-1-1 |
| Denver Housing Authority | (720) 932-3000 |
| Xcel Energy | (800) 895-4999 |
| Denver Water | (303) 893-2444 |
| Colorado Legal Services | (303) 837-1313 |
| VA Eastern Colorado | (303) 399-8020 |
C) Food Programs at a Glance
| Program | What You Get | How to Start |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Monthly EBT funds | Apply on PEAK |
| Meals on Wheels | Home-delivered meals | VOA Colorado Meals |
| TEFAP | Monthly food boxes | Food Bank of the Rockies — Find Food |
| Senior Farmers Market | Produce vouchers (seasonal) | Ask DRCOG AAA |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: I can’t afford my Denver rent. What should I do first?
A: Apply for city help (TRUA) if available, get on DHA waitlists, and start the state PTC rebate if you qualify. Stack other supports like OAP, SNAP, and LEAP. Start at Denver Housing — Resident Resources and Denver Housing Authority.
Q2: I have Medicare and still pay a lot. Can Colorado help?
A: Yes. Medicare Savings Programs can pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs. Apply through Colorado PEAK. SHIP counselors (via DRCOG AAA) can help you compare plans and costs.
Q3: How do I get a ride to the doctor?
A: If you have Health First Colorado, schedule NEMT: HCPF — NEMT. If not, check RTD senior fares or Access‑a‑Ride: RTD. DRMAC can help with options and travel training: DRMAC.
Q4: My utility bill is overdue. Can I stop a shutoff?
A: Apply for LEAP right away: CDHS LEAP. Call your utility to ask for a payment plan and see if they have hardship funds (Xcel: (800) 895-4999). Energy Outreach Colorado partners may help with immediate bill pay: Energy Outreach Colorado.
Q5: What’s the difference between OAP and SSI?
A: OAP is a state benefit for adults 60+ with low income. SSI is a federal benefit for people 65+ or with a disability and very limited income/assets. You can’t collect both at the same time. Ask a caseworker or Colorado Legal Services which is best for you.
Q6: I don’t use computers. Can someone help me apply?
A: Yes. Call DRCOG AAA at (303) 455-1000 or Denver Human Services at (720) 944-3666 to ask about application help by phone or in person. Libraries also provide tech help and printing.
Q7: Is there still a federal low-income internet discount?
A: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024 due to lack of funding. Lifeline is still available for discounted phone/internet: FCC Lifeline. Some providers offer their own low-income plans—ask your carrier.
Q8: Where do I report a suspected scam?
A: Report to the Colorado Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit at (720) 508-6000 and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. For financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult, call APS at (844) 264-5437.
Resources by Region (Denver Metro Focus)
- Denver Regional Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging (AAA): Info & assistance, nutrition, caregiver support, SHIP Medicare counseling.
Website: DRCOG AAA | Phone: (303) 455-1000 - Denver Human Services: Benefits, adult protection, and connections to city resources.
Website: Denver Human Services | Phone: (720) 944-3666 - Denver Housing Authority: Public housing, Section 8.
Website: Denver Housing Authority | Phone: (720) 932-3000 - Health First Colorado: State Medicaid.
Website: Health First Colorado | Member Services: (800) 221-3943 - 2-1-1 Colorado: 24/7 resource line for food, housing, utilities, and more.
Website: 211 Colorado | Phone: 2-1-1 - Colorado Legal Services: Civil legal aid for low-income older adults.
Website: Colorado Legal Services | Phone: (303) 837-1313 - RTD: Public transit and Access‑a‑Ride.
Website: RTD Denver | Customer Care: (303) 299-6000 - Food Bank of the Rockies: Pantry locator, TEFAP distribution partners.
Website: Find Food | Phone: (303) 371-9250 - Energy Outreach Colorado: Utility assistance partners.
Website: EOC | Phone: (866) 432-8435 - VA Eastern Colorado Health Care: VA medical services.
Website: VA Eastern Colorado | Phone: (303) 399-8020
Disclaimer
Program rules, amounts, and availability change. Waiting lists open and close. Always verify eligibility, benefit amounts, and application steps with the official agency or program before you apply. This guide is for educational purposes and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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.
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