Emergency Assistance for Seniors in California

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

This guide is designed to help older adults in California find fast, reliable help during emergencies and tough times. It focuses on state-specific programs, how to apply, and where to call today. All facts link to official sources.

Quick Help Box (keep these numbers handy)

Tip: If you use a hearing or speech device, you can dial 711 for California Relay. Poison emergencies: 800-222-1222 (Poison Help).

What to do first in an emergency

  1. Safety first
  • Call 911 for immediate danger or medical emergencies.
  • For a mental health crisis, dial 988 (Veterans press 1).
  • If you feel unsafe at home due to abuse, call APS at 833-401-0832 or 911 if in danger now.
  1. Get short-term essentials
  • Food today: call 211 for a pantry, senior meal site, or home-delivered meal.
  • CalFresh expedited service can provide food benefits within 3 days in many cases. Apply at BenefitsCal or call your county. Program info: CalFresh (CDSS).
  • Lost food due to power outage or disaster? You can request CalFresh replacement within 10 days. See: Replace CalFresh benefits after food loss.
  1. Stabilize and plan
  • Health coverage: if you don’t have Medi-Cal or need help using Medicare, contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and HICAP (free Medicare counseling). AAA finder: Find Services in My County (CDA). HICAP: Medicare Counseling (CDA).
  • Housing risk: contact 211 to enter your region’s Coordinated Entry system for shelter/rapid rehousing and ask your county about the Home Safe and HDAP programs (more below).
  • After a wildfire, flood, quake or severe storm, check Cal OES for updates and apply for FEMA if your county is declared: DisasterAssistance.gov.

Reality check: Some benefits require paperwork and verification. If you can’t gather documents due to a disaster, tell the agency; disaster or expedited rules may allow alternatives.

Table: Fast emergency contacts and actions (California)

Need Who to contact How it helps Link
Immediate danger 911 Police, fire, ambulance N/A
Mental health crisis 988 24/7 counseling; connects locally 988 Lifeline
Elder abuse (home or community) Adult Protective Services 833-401-0832 24/7 reports; connects to county APS APS – CDSS
Problems in nursing homes/assisted living LTC Ombudsman 800-231-4024 Advocates for residents; resolves complaints Ombudsman – CDA
Food today 211 Local pantries, senior meals, delivery 211 California
Food benefits fast County via BenefitsCal Expedited CalFresh (often 3 days) Apply at BenefitsCal
Health coverage Medi-Cal Medical, prescriptions, transportation Medi-Cal – DHCS
Disaster help FEMA Grants for housing, repairs, other needs DisasterAssistance.gov
Utility shutoff help LIHEAP (CSD) Bill payment, crisis assistance LIHEAP – CSD

Emergency alerts and disaster readiness in California

Tip: If you depend on powered medical devices (oxygen, CPAP, mobility equipment), ask your utility about the Medical Baseline program and power shutoff notifications. See: Medical Baseline (CPUC).

Food and nutrition help

  1. CalFresh (SNAP)
  • What it is: Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors with fixed incomes often qualify.
  • Why it helps: Can be used at many grocery stores and some farmers’ markets; in some areas, you can buy groceries online.
  • How to apply: BenefitsCal. Learn more: CalFresh – CDSS.
  • Special notes: Expedited service may issue benefits within 3 days for urgent need. Lost/stolen EBT card? Call 877-328-9677 (California EBT).
  1. Senior Nutrition Programs (congregate and home-delivered meals)
  • What they are: Free or low-cost meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals for those who can’t go out (Older Americans Act programs).
  • Why they help: Provide nutrition and wellness checks.
  • How to connect: Contact your local AAA: Find Services in My County (CDA). Program info: CDA Nutrition Programs.
  1. Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP – Senior Food Box)
  • What it is: A monthly box of shelf-stable foods for eligible older adults.
  • How to enroll: Through local CSFP sites listed by CDSS: CSFP – CDSS.
  1. Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

Reality check: Some meal routes and CSFP sites have waitlists. If you’re turned away, ask to be put on the waitlist and call 211 for nearby backups.

Health coverage and long-term care

  1. Medi-Cal (California Medicaid)
  • What it is: Free or low-cost health coverage, including doctor visits, hospital care, many prescriptions, and in many cases transportation to medical appointments.
  • How to apply: BenefitsCal or through Covered California – Medi-Cal.
  • Immigrant seniors: California covers many adults regardless of immigration status; see public charge guidance: Public Charge & Medi-Cal (DHCS).
  • Transportation: Medi-Cal covers medically necessary Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) and Non-Medical Transportation (NMT) when needed for covered services. Info: Medi-Cal Transportation.
  1. Medicare and free counseling (HICAP)
  • What it is: Federal health insurance for people 65+.
  • Get help comparing plans, drug coverage, and Medicare Savings Programs: Free counseling from HICAP via your AAA.
  • Where to start: Medicare.gov and HICAP – CDA.
  1. In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
  • What it is: Helps eligible seniors with daily tasks (bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning) so they can stay safely at home.
  • How to apply: Through your county or at BenefitsCal. Program info: IHSS – CDSS.
  • Reality check: You’ll have a home visit and need a doctor’s certification. Start early if you can.
  1. Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) and Adult Day Health Care
  • What it is: Day programs that include nursing, therapy, personal care, and meals for adults with medical needs.
  • How it helps: Offers respite for caregivers and supports health at home.
  • Learn more and find providers: CBAS – DHCS.
  1. Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP)
  1. Mental health and emotional support
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988.
  • County behavioral health departments provide crisis lines, mobile crisis teams, and ongoing care. Contact via 211 or your county health site.
  • For older adult-specific support, call the Friendship Line 800-971-0016: Institute on Aging.

Table: Health and long-term care programs at a glance

Program What it does Who it serves How to apply
Medi-Cal Health coverage; can include transport and long-term care Low/moderate income Californians BenefitsCal
Medicare Federal health insurance (hospital, medical, drug options) Age 65+ and some with disabilities Medicare.gov
HICAP Free, unbiased Medicare counseling All Medicare beneficiaries HICAP – CDA
IHSS In-home help with daily activities Seniors with qualifying need IHSS – CDSS
CBAS/ADHC Day health services, therapies, meals Adults with medical needs CBAS – DHCS
MSSP Case management and in-home supports 65+ at risk of nursing home placement MSSP – CDA

Cash and income supports

  1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplementary Payment (SSP)
  • What it is: Monthly cash for low-income seniors and people with disabilities; California adds a state supplement (SSP).
  • Apply for SSI via Social Security: SSI – SSA. Learn about SSP: SSP – CDSS.
  • Tip: If your SSI was reduced or stopped, ask about state or county programs that can help bridge gaps.
  1. Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI)
  • What it is: State cash assistance for certain legal immigrants who are ineligible for SSI.
  • Learn more and apply through your county: CAPI – CDSS.
  1. General Assistance/General Relief (GA/GR)
  • What it is: County-run, short-term cash aid for adults with very low income who don’t qualify for other cash programs.
  • Find your county program: General Assistance – CDSS.
  1. Housing and Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP)
  • What it is: County program funded by the state to help people who are homeless or at risk and likely eligible for disability benefits. Provides SSI advocacy plus housing supports.
  • Ask your county or 211 about HDAP: HDAP – CDSS.
  1. Home Safe (through APS)
  • What it is: Helps APS-involved adults avoid homelessness with short-term housing assistance (like deposits, rental help, critical repairs).
  • Info: Home Safe Program – CDSS. Access through your county APS.

Reality check: GA/GR amounts and rules vary by county. Many programs require an interview and proof of income. If you’re hospitalized or displaced by a disaster, ask about “good cause” for missing appointments.

Housing, shelter, and staying housed

Property tax relief for homeowners

Disaster housing

  • If your home was damaged in a declared disaster, apply for FEMA Individual Assistance: DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Check statewide updates and local assistance centers: Cal OES.

Reality check: Shelters and vouchers can be limited, especially during severe weather or wildfires. Keep calling if lines are busy and ask for transportation help if you can’t get there on your own.

Utilities, communications, and shutoff protections

  1. LIHEAP (energy bills and crisis help)
  • What it is: One-time payment and emergency help for heating/cooling bills; administered locally with federal funds.
  • Where to apply: California LIHEAP (CSD).
  1. CARE/FERA (monthly utility discounts)
  • What they are: Ongoing bill discounts for electric and gas (CARE) and family electric rate assistance (FERA).
  • Overview: Energy assistance programs – CPUC. Apply via your utility.
  1. Medical Baseline and disconnection protections
  1. Water shutoff protections (SB 998)
  • Water systems must follow notice rules and offer payment plans; extra protections for medical and financial hardship.
  • Learn more at the State Water Board (ask your water provider for its SB 998 policy): Water shutoff protections – State Water Board.
  1. Phone and internet
  • California LifeLine gives discounted home or cell phone service for eligible households: California LifeLine.
  • 211 can help you find low-cost internet providers in your area and library hotspots.

Table: Utility and communications help

Program What it covers Who to contact Link
LIHEAP One-time bill help, crisis assistance Local LIHEAP agency via CSD LIHEAP – CSD
CARE/FERA Monthly electric/gas discounts Your utility (CPUC overview) Energy assistance – CPUC
Medical Baseline Lower baseline rate for medical device users Your utility (CPUC overview) Medical Baseline – CPUC
Water shutoff protections (SB 998) Notice rules, payment plans, medical hardship Your water provider; State Water Board State Water Board
California LifeLine Discounted phone service LifeLine Administrator California LifeLine

Tip: Tell your utility if you depend on power for medical equipment and request Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) notifications.

Disaster food help

  • Disaster CalFresh (D-CalFresh): After certain disasters, eligible households in designated counties can receive short-term food benefits. Watch for announcements from CDSS and apply through your county. Info: Disaster CalFresh – CDSS.
  • CalFresh food replacement: If you lost food due to power outage, wildfire, or flooding, apply within 10 days to replace benefits: Food replacement – CDSS.

Transportation

  • ADA paratransit: Curb-to-curb rides for people who cannot use fixed-route buses. Contact your local transit agency; find via 211 or your AAA.
  • Medi-Cal transportation: If you have Medi-Cal and need help getting to covered appointments, ask your plan or county about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) and Non-Medical Transportation (NMT): Medi-Cal Transportation.
  • Senior ride programs: Many AAAs and cities run volunteer driver or discounted taxi programs. Find via your AAA: Find Services in My County (CDA).

Legal help and consumer protection

  • Senior legal services: Free or low-cost help with benefits, housing, abuse, and simple estate issues is available through local legal aid. Start at LawHelpCA.org or your AAA.
  • Elder abuse and neglect: Report to APS at 833-401-0832. For crimes or immediate danger, call 911. Medicaid fraud or abuse in facilities can be reported to the CA DOJ Bureau: BMFEA – CA DOJ.
  • Disaster scams and price gouging: Report to the Attorney General; California’s price gouging law applies during emergencies. Info: Price gouging – CA DOJ.
  • Identity theft and consumer fraud: Identity Theft – CA DOJ and IdentityTheft.gov – FTC.

Reality check: Demand for legal help spikes after disasters. If a hotline is busy, leave your name and number. Keep copies of notices and take photos of damage.

Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ older adults

Veteran seniors

  • CalVet connects Veterans to health care, benefits, and state Veterans Homes: CalVet.
  • Veterans Homes of California (locations include Yountville, Barstow, Chula Vista, West Los Angeles, Lancaster, Ventura, Redding, and Fresno): Veterans Homes – CalVet.
  • County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs) help with claims and Aid & Attendance pension: Find your CVSO – CalVet.
  • Veterans Crisis Line: dial 988, press 1. Info: Veterans Crisis Line.

Tribal-specific resources

  • Older Americans Act Title VI programs provide meals and supportive services for Native elders through tribes. Learn more: ACL Title VI. Contact your tribal office for local services.
  • Indian Health Service (California Area): IHS California Area.
  • California Rural Indian Health Board: CRIHB.
  • Tribal LIHEAP (energy help) is available through many tribes: Tribal LIHEAP – DOE.

Rural seniors and limited access

  • Ask 211 about mobile food pantries, mail delivery of prescriptions, and telehealth options.
  • If you have Medi-Cal, request NEMT/NMT for distant medical visits: Medi-Cal Transportation.
  • Consider California LifeLine for reliable phone service: California LifeLine.
  • Preparedness tip: In wildfire-prone areas, sign up for local alerts at CalAlerts.org and prepare go-bags with medications and copies of IDs.

Resources by region (selected starting points)

Note: For the most accurate local contacts, use the statewide AAA finder: Find Services in My County (CDA).

Table: Key state programs and how to apply

Topic Program What it does Where to apply
Food CalFresh Monthly EBT for groceries; expedited in emergencies BenefitsCal
Food CSFP (Senior Food Box) Monthly shelf-stable foods CSFP – CDSS
Meals Senior Nutrition (OAA) Congregate and home-delivered meals AAA finder – CDA
Health Medi-Cal Comprehensive coverage BenefitsCal
Medicare help HICAP Free counseling on Medicare choices HICAP – CDA
In-home care IHSS Help with daily activities at home IHSS – CDSS
Cash SSI/SSP Monthly cash assistance SSI – SSA
Cash (immigrants) CAPI State cash for some non-SSI immigrants CAPI – CDSS
Housing stability Home Safe (APS) Prevents homelessness for APS clients Home Safe – CDSS
Homeless services Coordinated Entry Access to shelter and housing programs 211 California
Utilities LIHEAP Energy bill assistance and crisis help LIHEAP – CSD
Phone California LifeLine Discounted phone service California LifeLine

How to apply: practical tips

  • BenefitsCal account: Create an account to track CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and other applications: BenefitsCal.
  • Documents: Common items include ID, proof of address, and income. If you lost documents in a disaster, explain your situation—agencies have procedures for this.
  • Interviews: Many programs require a phone or in-person interview. Ask for accommodations if you have hearing, mobility, or transportation needs.
  • Language access: You can ask for free interpreter services in your preferred language.
  • Accessibility: If forms are hard to read, request large-print or help filling them out.
  • Avoid scams: Government programs do not charge application fees. If someone asks for money to “guarantee approval,” report it to your county or the Attorney General: Report scams – CA DOJ.

Emergency readiness for care homes and caregivers

  • Residents’ rights during emergencies: If you or your loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, you have rights regarding safe transfer and discharge. Call the Ombudsman at 800-231-4024 for help: LTC Ombudsman – CDA.
  • Caregiver plans: Keep updated medication lists, physician contacts, and a go-bag with supplies, incontinence products, and copies of legal documents (advance directive, POLST, powers of attorney).

Table: Disaster steps after a wildfire, flood, or earthquake

Step What to do Where to go
1 Find safe shelter, notify family 211 or local emergency info; Red Cross sites via county
2 Report damage, take photos County damage survey; keep receipts
3 File insurance claims Contact your insurer; keep claim number
4 Apply for FEMA if eligible DisasterAssistance.gov
5 Replace lost documents SSA, DMV, Medicare cards; ask AAA for help
6 Replace food benefits (CalFresh) CalFresh food replacement
7 Ask about Disaster CalFresh D-CalFresh – CDSS
8 Watch for scams/price gouging CA DOJ consumer alerts

Real-world examples

  • Power shutoff and refrigerated meds: During a planned Public Safety Power Shutoff, a senior used the Medical Baseline program to get alerts and contacted LIHEAP for bill help after higher cooling costs. Learn about protections: Medical Baseline – CPUC and LIHEAP – CSD.
  • Quick food help after a flood: A household applied for expedited CalFresh through BenefitsCal and received EBT within days, then requested food replacement for spoiled groceries: CalFresh replacement.

Note: Program timelines vary by county and situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1) I need food this week. What’s the fastest option in California?

Q2) I lost food due to a power outage. Can I get my CalFresh benefits replaced?

Q3) I’m on Medicare and can’t afford my prescriptions. Who can help?

  • Contact HICAP for free counseling on drug plans and cost-saving programs: HICAP – CDA. Also ask your pharmacy about manufacturer assistance and Medicare Savings Programs.

Q4) I think I’m being financially exploited by a caregiver. What should I do?

  • If you’re in danger, call 911. Otherwise, call APS at 833-401-0832 and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 800-231-4024 if it involves a facility. Learn more: APS – CDSS, Ombudsman – CDA.

Q5) I’m an immigrant senior. Will Medi-Cal hurt my immigration case (public charge)?

  • Most Medi-Cal benefits do not count against public charge. See official guidance: Public Charge & Medi-Cal (DHCS). If you have questions, speak with an accredited legal provider.

Q6) I’m at risk of homelessness. What California programs can help right now?

  • Call 211 to enter Coordinated Entry for shelter and housing programs. If you are working with APS, ask about the Home Safe Program: Home Safe – CDSS. Ask your county about HDAP: HDAP – CDSS.

Q7) My nursing home wants to discharge me during an emergency. What are my rights?

  • Call the Ombudsman at 800-231-4024 for help; facilities must follow transfer/discharge rules. Info: LTC Ombudsman – CDA.

Q8) How can I get to my doctor if I don’t drive?

Q9) Can utilities shut off my power or water if I’m behind?

  • There are protections and payment plans. For energy: CPUC disconnections. For water shutoffs (SB 998), contact your water provider and see the State Water Board: Water Boards.

Q10) Where can I get reliable updates during wildfires or earthquakes?

Warnings, tips, and reality checks

  • Be cautious of “fee-for-service” application offers. State and county agencies do not charge to apply for benefits.
  • Keep a small folder with copies of IDs, Medicare/insurance cards, and medication lists in a go-bag.
  • Tell your agencies if you’ve been displaced; many have disaster flexibility on documents and interviews.
  • Price gouging and contractor scams rise after disasters. Verify licenses and report suspicious activity: CA DOJ – Price Gouging.
  • For caregivers: Take breaks and ask about respite options through your AAA: Find Services (CDA).

Resources (official links)

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.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. It does not provide legal, financial, or medical advice. Program rules, availability, and eligibility can change at any time. Always confirm details with the official agency or program linked in this guide.

Share this post:
Share on Pinterest Share on WhatsApp
Check Assistance Programs and Benefits for Seniors in Your State
Alabama Montana
Alaska Nebraska
Arizona Nevada
Arkansas New Hampshire
California New Jersey
Colorado New Mexico
Connecticut New York
Delaware North Carolina
Florida North Dakota
Georgia Ohio
Hawaii Oklahoma
Idaho Oregon
Illinois Pennsylvania
Indiana Rhode Island
Iowa South Carolina
Kansas South Dakota
Kentucky Tennessee
Louisiana Texas
Maine Utah
Maryland Vermont
Massachusetts Virginia
Michigan Washington
Minnesota West Virginia
Mississippi Wisconsin
Missouri Wyoming

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.