Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Missouri

Last updated: August 2025

Missouri has strong programs to help older adults in a crisis—whether it’s a utility shutoff, eviction risk, food need, health emergency, or a natural disaster. This guide puts the most important steps, phone numbers, and application links in one place, with plain-language explanations and official sources you can trust.

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Quick help box (keep this handy)

If you’re in immediate danger or without essential services, start here.

Reality check:

• If lines are busy, keep trying and leave messages. Ask for “emergency” or “expedited” help when health or safety is at risk.
• Keep IDs, Social Security number, proof of income, lease/utility bill, and medical letters handy for applications.
• Many programs use waitlists when funding is tight. Apply anyway and ask what to do while you wait.

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Missouri at a glance

• About 18% of Missouri residents are age 65+ (U.S. Census Bureau, QuickFacts). Check current figures: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/MO
• If you get Social Security, SSI, SSDI, Medicare, or MO HealthNet (Medicaid), you may qualify for extra help with food, utilities, and medications. Always ask the agency to screen you.

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1) Emergency help first: exact steps by situation

A) Facing a utility shutoff (heat, electricity, gas)

1. Call your utility immediately and ask for:

• A payment plan or medical hardship protection.
• Any company assistance programs and how to get a letter from your doctor if needed.

2. Apply for LIHEAP:

• Apply online or by paper: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
• LIHEAP helps with heating and cooling bills and sometimes with disconnection or reconnection fees. It’s run by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), Family Support Division.

3. Know your rights under Missouri’s Cold Weather Rule:

• The Cold Weather Rule protects customers of regulated utilities from November 1 through March 31 and requires payment arrangements before disconnection. Details and who is covered: Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) Cold Weather Rule: https://psc.mo.gov/General/Cold_Weather_Rule

4. Call 211 to find local energy funds (churches, Community Action Agencies, Salvation Army):

• Missouri 211: https://www.211helps.org/ or dial 2-1-1

5. Consider Weatherization:

• Weatherization reduces bills long-term with insulation, air sealing, and safety checks. Apply through your local provider: Missouri Division of Energy Weatherization Assistance: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization

Warning:

• The Cold Weather Rule applies to PSC-regulated utilities. Municipal and cooperative utilities may have different policies—call them to ask about winter protections and medical needs.

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B) Eviction risk or homelessness

1. Contact your local homeless services network (Continuum of Care):

• These groups manage shelter, street outreach, and rent/utility prevention funds when available.
• Find Missouri CoC contacts (HUD official list): https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/coc/coc-contact-list/?state=MO

2. Dial 211 for emergency rent and utility help in your county:

• Missouri 211: https://www.211helps.org/

3. Know that statewide COVID-era rent programs (SAFHR) ended:

• Missouri’s SAFHR programs have ended; for current assistance, use 211 and your local CoC. See the Missouri Housing Development Commission for homelessness resources: https://www.mhdc.com/homeless-assistance/

4. If you’re served court papers:

• Don’t skip court. Bring proof of payments and all notices.
• Look for legal aid right away:
  • Missouri Legal Services (find your local office): https://www.lsmo.org/

Tip:

• Ask about “Homelessness Prevention” under the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). Funds are limited and not always open but worth asking your CoC and 211.

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C) No food today

• Call 211 to find a pantry with today’s hours: https://www.211helps.org/
• Apply for SNAP (Food Stamps) — expedited SNAP may be possible in emergencies: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance/food-stamp-program
• Check if your county participates in the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program for produce vouchers: https://agriculture.mo.gov/abd/foodprograms/seniorfarmersmarket.php
• Meals at home or in senior centers are coordinated by local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Find your AAA: Missouri Association of Area Agencies on Aging (ma4) directory: https://www.ma4web.org/area-agencies-on-aging/

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D) Health, Medicare, and prescriptions

• Urgent medical need: call 911 or go to an ER.
• Medicare coverage questions, denials, or Extra Help: Missouri SHIP, free unbiased counseling: https://www.missouriship.org/ or 1-800-390-3330
• Medicaid (MO HealthNet) for age 65+: eligibility and how to apply: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/mo-healthnet-coverage-age-65
• Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (if you have MO HealthNet): how to schedule rides: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm
• State pharmacy help with Part D costs: Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx): https://morx.mo.gov/

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E) Abuse, neglect, or scams

• Report adult abuse or neglect: 1-800-392-0210 (MO DHSS): https://health.mo.gov/seniors/abuse/
• Report scams/price gouging/financial exploitation: Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://ago.mo.gov/ or 1-800-392-8222
• If money or identity was stolen, also contact your bank and local police, and consider a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

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2) Utilities and energy help in Missouri

Below are the main programs and protections that help seniors keep the lights and heat on.

Reality check:

• Assistance often runs out during peak seasons. Apply early, ask for a written payment plan, and keep copies of all forms and receipts. If denied, ask how to appeal or reapply.

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3) Food and cash aid

Tip:

• If you receive SSI, SSDI, or MO HealthNet, ask DSS to pre-screen you for SNAP and LIHEAP at the same time to save trips. DSS Family Support Division: https://mydss.mo.gov/ and 855-373-4636.

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4) Health coverage, Medicare help, and prescriptions

Prescription savings and assistance:

• Ask your pharmacist if your plan requires a “preferred” pharmacy to lower copays.
• If you take expensive brand-name drugs, ask SHIP about manufacturer assistance and Extra Help. Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy) details: Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
• Nonprofit low-cost pharmacy based in Missouri: Rx Outreach: https://rxoutreach.org/

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5) Housing, home repairs, and safety modifications

• Weatherization Assistance Program: energy-saving repairs and health/safety checks. Apply via local Weatherization provider: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization
• USDA Rural Development Section 504 Home Repair (for homeowners in qualifying rural areas):
  • Grants up to a federal limit for very low-income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; loans for others. Check current amounts and eligibility: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/mo
• Area Agencies on Aging may help with minor home modifications, ramps, and fall prevention if funding is available. Find your AAA: https://www.ma4web.org/area-agencies-on-aging/
• Missouri Assistive Technology (MoAT) can help with device loans and the Telecommunications Access Program (TAP) for accessible phone/internet equipment: https://at.mo.gov/
• For property taxes:
  • Missouri Property Tax Credit (“circuit breaker”) may refund part of real estate taxes or rent paid, if eligible. Always check the current maximums and income limits on the Missouri Department of Revenue page: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/income-tax/ptc/
  • Some counties or cities may adopt senior property tax freezes under recent state law. These are local decisions—check with your county assessor or collector for availability and rules.

Reality check:

• Home repair grants are often limited and can have long waitlists. Apply early, ask about priority for health/safety, and keep contact info current with the agency.

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6) Transportation across Missouri

Transportation can be a lifeline for medical visits, groceries, and community life.

Tip:

• When scheduling medical rides, have your Medicaid ID, clinic address, appointment time, and return time ready. Book as early as possible.

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7) Safety, legal help, and consumer protection

• Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline (24/7): 1-800-392-0210; MO DHSS information: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/abuse/
• Legal help (civil matters like housing, benefits, consumer):
  • Find your local Missouri legal aid office: https://www.lsmo.org/
• Consumer complaints and scam reports:
  • Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://ago.mo.gov/ or 1-800-392-8222
• Disaster readiness and recovery:
  • Missouri SEMA: https://sema.dps.mo.gov/
  • FEMA Individual Assistance (when declared): https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual

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8) Special focus: LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, Native elders, and rural communities

LGBTQ+ older adults

• Inclusive senior services vary by county. When calling agencies, you can ask about LGBTQ+ welcoming providers.
• SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (listening/support and resources): 1-877-360-LGBT (5428). Info: https://www.sageusa.org/
• PROMO (Missouri’s statewide LGBTQ+ organization) hosts SAGE of PROMO programming and resource connections: https://promoonline.org/programs/sage/
• For Medicare and benefits questions in a safe setting, Missouri SHIP is trained to provide unbiased help: https://www.missouriship.org/

Veteran seniors

• Missouri Veterans Commission (benefits officers, homes, and services): https://mvc.dps.mo.gov/
• VA Aid & Attendance (helps with long-term care costs for eligible veterans/surviving spouses): Learn and apply via VA: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
• VA Medical Centers and CBOCs in Missouri can be found here: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

Native/tribal elders

• Missouri does not have federally recognized tribal reservations within the state, but many Native elders live in Missouri and may access Indian Health Service or Urban Indian programs.
• Indian Health Service, Kansas City Area: https://www.ihs.gov/kansascity/
• Kansas City Indian Center (Urban Indian organization serving the metro region, including Missouri side): https://www.kcindiancenter.org/
• National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) resources for Native elders: https://www.nicoa.org/
• Native elders who are veterans can also use VA services listed above.

Rural seniors and families with limited access

• OATS Transit offers routes in most rural counties: https://www.oatstransit.org/
• Telehealth may be covered by Medicare and MO HealthNet; ask your provider and plan about phone/video visits.
• University of Missouri Extension shares county-specific resources and disaster recovery education: https://extension.missouri.edu/
• If broadband is limited, ask your library about computer time, printing, and help with online forms. Many AAAs can mail paper applications on request.

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9) Resources by region (housing crisis, AAAs, and 211)

Use this table to jump to regional help. For shelters and homelessness prevention, Continuums of Care (CoCs) are the main hub. For meals, caregiver help, and aging services, contact your local AAA. 211 can help in any region.

Note: The Missouri Balance of State CoC covers many rural counties and is coordinated through state partners. MHDC’s homeless assistance page: https://www.mhdc.com/homeless-assistance/

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10) Applying without headaches: practical tips

• Keep a simple folder with copies of your photo ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, lease/mortgage, recent utility bills, and proof of income (award letters, pay stubs).
• If you can’t travel, ask for phone appointments, telehealth, or mailed forms. Many programs allow authorized representatives; you can name a trusted person to help.
• Missed a deadline? Ask if you can still turn in late documents or file an appeal. Many programs allow “good cause” for delays.
• If an agency says funds ran out, ask when to reapply and if there’s a waitlist.

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11) Frequently Asked Questions (Missouri-specific)

Q1) How do I apply for LIHEAP in Missouri, and how fast is it?

• Apply online or by mail through the Missouri DSS Family Support Division: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
• Processing times vary by season and funding. If you’re facing a shutoff, tell them it’s urgent and provide the shutoff notice. Ask your utility for a payment arrangement while your LIHEAP is pending.

Q2) Does Missouri have protections against winter utility shutoffs?

• Yes. The Missouri Public Service Commission’s Cold Weather Rule runs November 1–March 31 for PSC-regulated utilities and requires payment arrangements before shutoff. Details and who’s covered: https://psc.mo.gov/General/Cold_Weather_Rule
• Municipal or cooperative utilities may have different rules. Call your utility and ask about medical and hardship protections.

Q3) Is there still statewide emergency rental assistance?

• The pandemic-era State Assistance for Housing Relief (SAFHR) ended. For current help, call 211 (https://www.211helps.org/) and contact your local Continuum of Care (https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/coc/coc-contact-list/?state=MO). Availability changes, and funds are limited.

Q4) Where can I get unbiased Medicare advice in Missouri?

• Missouri SHIP provides free counseling on Medicare choices, Extra Help, billing errors, and appeals: https://www.missouriship.org/ or 1-800-390-3330.

Q5) Does Missouri help with prescription drug costs for people on Medicare?

• Yes. The Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx) helps with Medicare Part D costs for eligible residents: https://morx.mo.gov/
• Also ask SHIP about Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy): https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/

Q6) How do I get rides to medical appointments if I’m on MO HealthNet?

• Use Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Learn how to schedule and what’s covered: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm

Q7) How do I report elder abuse or financial exploitation in Missouri?

• Call the Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-0210. Learn more: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/abuse/
• For scams and unfair business practices, contact the Missouri Attorney General: https://ago.mo.gov/ or 1-800-392-8222.

Q8) Does Missouri have a “circuit breaker” property tax credit for seniors?

• Yes, the Missouri Property Tax Credit may refund a portion of real estate taxes or rent paid by eligible seniors and people with disabilities. The credit amount and income limits can change. Always check the Missouri Department of Revenue’s current tables and forms: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/income-tax/ptc/

Q9) I live in a rural county. Who can I call for rides and home-delivered meals?

• Rides: OATS Transit (https://www.oatstransit.org/) and MO Rides (https://morides.org/).
• Meals and aging services: find your Area Agency on Aging here: https://www.ma4web.org/area-agencies-on-aging/

Q10) Is the federal internet discount (ACP) still available?

• The Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of funding in 2024. Lifeline, a separate federal program, still provides a monthly discount for eligible phone/internet. Check current Lifeline info via the FCC: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers

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12) Key sources (clickable)

• Missouri Department of Social Services (benefits and applications): https://mydss.mo.gov/
• Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
• SNAP (Food Stamps) in Missouri: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance/food-stamp-program
• MO HealthNet (Medicaid) for 65+: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/mo-healthnet-coverage-age-65
• Medicare counseling (Missouri SHIP): https://www.missouriship.org/
• Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx): https://morx.mo.gov/
• Non-Emergency Medical Transportation: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm
• Adult Abuse & Neglect (Missouri DHSS): https://health.mo.gov/seniors/abuse/
• Missouri PSC Cold Weather Rule: https://psc.mo.gov/General/Cold_Weather_Rule
• Weatherization Assistance (Division of Energy): https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization
• Missouri 211 (United Way): https://www.211helps.org/
• HUD CoC contacts (Missouri): https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/coc/coc-contact-list/?state=MO
• Missouri Legal Services (find your local office): https://www.lsmo.org/
• Missouri Property Tax Credit: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/income-tax/ptc/
• Missouri SEMA (disasters): https://sema.dps.mo.gov/
• FEMA Individual Assistance: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual
• OATS Transit: https://www.oatstransit.org/
• MO Rides: https://morides.org/
• MoDOT public transit: https://www.modot.org/public-transit
• Missouri Assistive Technology: https://at.mo.gov/
• U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts Missouri: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/MO
• Rx Outreach (nonprofit pharmacy): https://rxoutreach.org/
• PROMO/SAGE (LGBTQ+ seniors): https://promoonline.org/programs/sage/
• SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: https://www.sageusa.org/
• VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Missouri Veterans Commission: https://mvc.dps.mo.gov/
• Indian Health Service, Kansas City Area: https://www.ihs.gov/kansascity/
• National Indian Council on Aging: https://www.nicoa.org/
• Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://ago.mo.gov/

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13) Short examples from real life (how these programs work together)

• Example 1: A 72-year-old in Springfield gets a shutoff notice in January. They call their utility to set a payment plan under the Cold Weather Rule, apply for LIHEAP at https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance, and contact 211 for any local funds. They also apply for Weatherization to reduce future bills: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization.
• Example 2: A widow in St. Louis County can’t afford copays for her medications. She calls Missouri SHIP (1-800-390-3330) and learns she qualifies for a Medicare Savings Program and MoRx (https://morx.mo.gov/). The counselor helps her apply, lowering monthly costs.
• Example 3: A veteran in rural Pike County needs rides for dialysis. He has MO HealthNet and books NEMT rides via the state transportation broker (https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm) and uses OATS Transit for grocery trips (https://www.oatstransit.org/).

These examples show how calling early, asking the right questions, and combining programs can stabilize a crisis.

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14) Common forms and numbers to keep nearby

• DSS Family Support Division Info Center: 855-373-4636 (benefits questions)
• Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 1-800-392-0210
• SHIP (Medicare help): 1-800-390-3330
• 211 (community resources): dial 2-1-1
• Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 (https://www.ssa.gov/)
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then press 1
• Attorney General Consumer Protection: 1-800-392-8222

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15) Reality checks and warnings

• Funding is limited: Many programs open, close, and reopen based on funding. If you’re denied, ask when to try again and what alternatives exist.
• Paperwork matters: Missing a single document can delay help. Ask for a checklist and keep copies.
• Scams increase during disasters and benefit changes: Government agencies will not demand gift cards or threaten arrest. When in doubt, hang up and call the official number listed above.
• ACP has ended: Many older guides still say the Affordable Connectivity Program is open. As of 2024, funding ended. Use Lifeline and ask your internet provider about senior discounts.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, eligibility limits, and contact details can change at any time. Always confirm the latest information with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, medical, or benefits advice.

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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: August 2025
• Sources Verified: Our citations link directly to official Missouri and federal sources; please check each agency page for the most current figures and forms.
• 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.