Emergency Assistance for Seniors in South Carolina
Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in South Carolina (Authority Hub)
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help Box (save these)
If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
| Need | Who to call or click | Hours/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts | Call or text 988, or use the 988 chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 24/7, free and confidential. See the official site: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline |
| Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult (age 18+) | South Carolina Adult Protective Services (APS) via DSS: Report adult abuse to DSS/APS | 24/7 online reporting; call your local DSS office or 911 if someone is in immediate danger |
| Domestic violence help | SC DSS Domestic Violence Services or The National Domestic Violence Hotline | 24/7 hotline: 1-800-799-7233 |
| Poisoning or medication mistake | Palmetto Poison Center: 1-800-222-1222, info at Palmetto Poison Center (USC) | 24/7 |
| Disaster alerts, shelters, evacuation routes | SC Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) and Know Your Zone (Hurricanes) | Check county alerts; follow evacuation orders |
| Find local help (food, shelter, bills) | Call 2-1-1 or visit SC 211 (United Way) | 24/7 statewide directory |
| Benefits application help (SNAP, Medicaid, more) | SC Thrive | Statewide benefits navigation; help line on site |
| Medicare counseling (SHIP) | I-CARE (SHIP) – SC Department on Aging | Free, unbiased Medicare help |
| Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) | GetCareSC (SCDOA directory) | Find your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) |
How to use this guide
- Start with “Emergency help now” for immediate steps and safety.
- Then scan the “Programs at a glance” table. Follow the links to apply.
- Use the “Resources by Region” table to find your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
- Keep track of case numbers and documents. Programs can have waitlists and paperwork.
This guide focuses on South Carolina programs, offices, and steps. When we mention facts or a program, we link to an official or well-established source.
Emergency help now
- If anyone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
- Mental health crisis: call or text 988. The 988 Lifeline is 24/7 and nationwide. See details at the official 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Abuse, neglect, or exploitation: report to SC DSS Adult Protective Services. If the person is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 first.
- Domestic or sexual violence: SC has shelters and advocates. Start with SC DSS Domestic Violence Services. National 24/7 hotline is 1-800-799-7233 at The Hotline.
- Hurricanes, flooding, severe weather:
- Know your evacuation zone: SCEMD – Know Your Zone.
- Find shelter updates and the hurricane guide: SCEMD – Publications.
- If you need a medical needs shelter, check SC DHEC – Medical Needs Shelters.
Note: South Carolina’s hurricane season runs June 1–November 30 in the Atlantic, per NOAA. Storms can form outside these dates, so watch local alerts.
- After a declared disaster:
- Apply for FEMA aid at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
- Small businesses and some nonprofits (including rental property owners) can seek help from the U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance.
- Medication or chemical exposure: Call the Palmetto Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 (official site).
Reality check: In large storms, shelters fill fast and phone lines get busy. Try to charge phones in advance, keep paper copies of key documents, and write down addresses and phone numbers.
What to grab if you can leave safely:
- Photo ID, Medicare/Medicaid cards, health plan cards
- Medication list and a few days of meds
- Mobility or medical equipment
- Proof of address (lease, utility bill), insurance papers
- Phone, charger, basic cash
Programs at a glance (South Carolina)
| Topic | Program | What it does | Where to apply or learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | SNAP (Food Stamps) | Monthly benefit to buy food at approved stores and farmers markets | SC DSS – SNAP |
| Food | Meals at home or centers | Home-delivered meals and senior center meals in many counties | SCDOA – Home & Community-Based Services via your local AAA |
| Food | Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | Seasonal produce vouchers for eligible adults 60+ | SC Dept. of Agriculture – SFMNP |
| Food | Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | Monthly shelf-stable “Senior Box” for eligible adults 60+ | See USDA state contacts: USDA FNS – CSFP in SC and check your regional food bank |
| Cash & bills | LIHEAP (energy) | Help with power bills and crisis heating/cooling | SC Office of Economic Opportunity – LIHEAP |
| Home | Weatherization (WAP) | Cuts energy costs with home repairs (insulation, sealing) | SC OEO – Weatherization |
| Health | Medicaid (Healthy Connections) | Health coverage for low-income seniors; also long-term care waivers | SC DHHS – Medicaid |
| Health | Medicare counseling (SHIP) | Free help comparing plans, Extra Help, and MSPs | I-CARE (SHIP) – SCDOA |
| Rx costs | Medicare Extra Help | Lowers Part D premiums, deductibles, copays for those who qualify | SSA – Extra Help |
| Insurance | Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) | Help pay Medicare Part A/B premiums and cost-sharing if eligible | SC DHHS – Medicare Savings Programs |
| Housing | Find affordable rentals | Search subsidized apartments and housing resources | SC Housing – Find Housing and HUD Resource Locator |
| Protection | Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Help with nursing home/assisted living complaints | SCDOA – LTC Ombudsman |
| Protection | Report scams | Consumer complaints, education, alerts | SC Dept. of Consumer Affairs |
Food and basic needs
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- What it is: Monthly benefit to buy groceries using an EBT card.
- Who it serves: Low-income households. Many seniors qualify even with small pensions or Social Security.
- Notes: If you have very little income, ask DSS about “expedited” SNAP processing for urgent cases. You can apply online, by mail, or in person.
- Apply/learn more: South Carolina DSS – SNAP
Tip: Use your EBT card at many farmers markets. Some markets offer “Double Bucks,” doubling the value of SNAP dollars for fruits and vegetables. Ask your local market or check with SC DSS – SNAP.
Senior meals
- Home-delivered meals and congregate meals (at senior centers) are available through your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
- Learn more: SCDOA – Home & Community-Based Services and find your local provider at GetCareSC.
Reality check: There may be waitlists for home-delivered meals in some counties. If you’re on a waitlist, ask the AAA for temporary options like food pantries or check SC 211.
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
- What it is: Vouchers to buy local produce from approved farmers.
- Who it serves: Eligible adults 60+. Income limits apply (set by USDA).
- When: Seasonal (spring/summer sign-ups). Quantities are limited.
- Details: SC Department of Agriculture – Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
- What it is: Monthly package of shelf-stable foods (“Senior Boxes”).
- Who it serves: Adults 60+ who meet income limits.
- Where to start: USDA state contacts list for South Carolina and local food banks such as Harvest Hope, Golden Harvest, and Lowcountry Food Bank.
- Details: USDA FNS – CSFP State Contacts
Other local help
- Dial 2-1-1 or visit SC 211 for pantries, diapers, hygiene, and more.
- Benefits navigation: SC Thrive helps with applications for SNAP, Medicaid, and more.
Health coverage, prescriptions, and long-term care
Healthy Connections Medicaid (SC DHHS)
- What it is: South Carolina’s Medicaid program for eligible low-income residents, including many seniors and people with disabilities.
- What it covers: Doctor visits, hospital care, some transportation (Non-Emergency Medical Transportation), and long-term care services.
- Apply: SC DHHS – Medicaid
- Transportation to appointments (if eligible): SC DHHS – Transportation (NEMT)
Community Long Term Care (CLTC)
- What it is: Manages long-term care services for Medicaid-eligible individuals who meet nursing home level of care. Includes in-home help through waivers like Community Choices.
- Learn more and start: SC DHHS – Community Long Term Care
Reality check: Waiver services can have waitlists. If you’re waiting, ask about short-term options from your AAA, church/community groups, or SC 211.
Medicare counseling (SHIP via I-CARE)
- What it is: Free, unbiased counseling on Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D, Medigap, Extra Help, and Medicare Savings Programs.
- Where: Through the South Carolina Department on Aging’s I-CARE program.
- Start here: I-CARE (SHIP) – SCDOA
Prescription help
- Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy): Reduces premiums and copays for Part D if you qualify. Apply via the Social Security Administration: SSA – Extra Help.
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Can help pay Medicare premiums and cost sharing if you meet income/resource limits. Details and application: SC DHHS – Medicare Savings Programs.
Medical needs during disasters
- Medical needs shelters and evacuation info: SC DHEC – Medical Needs Shelters and SCEMD – Know Your Zone.
Housing, utilities, and home safety
Energy and utility assistance
| Program | What it does | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP | Helps with heating/cooling bills and energy crises; run locally by Community Action Agencies | SC OEO – LIHEAP |
| Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Reduces energy bills through insulation, air sealing, minor repairs, and safety checks | SC OEO – Weatherization |
| Lifeline (phone/internet) | Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible households | Lifeline Support – USAC |
Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has ended new funding as of 2024. Check FCC – ACP for current status and alternatives; Lifeline remains available.
Renters and homeowners
- Find affordable apartments: SC Housing – Find Housing and the HUD Resource Locator.
- Evictions: Free legal help may be available from SC Legal Services. Self-help forms and guidance: SC Judicial Branch – Self-Help Center.
- Property tax relief: South Carolina’s Homestead Exemption generally exempts the first $50,000 of the fair market value of your legal residence for those age 65+, totally and permanently disabled, or legally blind. Apply through your county auditor. See official overview: SC Department of Revenue – Homestead Exemption.
Reality check: Many housing waitlists are closed or long. Apply to more than one property, keep your contact info updated, and check your mail for time-limited responses.
Homelessness prevention and shelters
- Coordinated Entry (local housing help hubs) vary by region. Start with:
- SC 211 for local shelter and rental help.
- SC Interagency Council on Homelessness for Continuum of Care contacts and reports.
- Veterans: see “Veteran seniors” below.
Safety, protection, and elder rights
- Adult abuse/neglect/exploitation: Report to SC DSS Adult Protective Services.
- Nursing home and assisted living concerns: SCDOA – Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
- Medicare fraud and scams: SCDOA – Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP).
- Consumer complaints/scam alerts: SC Department of Consumer Affairs.
- Identity theft recovery: FTC – IdentityTheft.gov.
Reality check: If you need to stop or change automatic bill payments after fraud, call your bank right away. Ask your AAA or SMP for help reporting scams.
Transportation
- Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have Healthy Connections Medicaid and qualify, you can arrange rides to Medicaid-covered appointments. Learn how to schedule at SC DHHS – Transportation.
- Aging and Disability Resource Centers: Many AAAs coordinate senior transportation or connect you to local transit. Start at GetCareSC.
- Veterans: See VA transportation options via your VA medical center or Veterans Transportation Service (VTS).
Tip: Book rides as early as allowed and have your Medicaid ID, appointment date/time, and clinic address handy.
Inclusive help for diverse seniors
Veteran seniors
- SC Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA): Connects you to benefits, claims help, and local Veteran Service Officers (VSOs). Start here: SCDVA.
- VA health care and crisis support:
- VA medical centers: Columbia (Dorn VA), Charleston (Ralph H. Johnson VA). Use the locator: VA Facility Locator.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then press 1, or visit Veterans Crisis Line.
- Housing and homelessness (including rapid rehousing): VA Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) and HUD-VASH.
- Aid & Attendance (long-term care help with pension): VA Aid and Attendance.
Reality check: Bring DD-214 and any VA letters to appointments. For faster help, contact your county VSO via SCDVA.
LGBTQ+ seniors
- Medicare/Medicaid and aging services are for everyone regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. If you face discrimination, report it to your AAA and to the appropriate civil rights office of the program involved.
- National, trusted resources:
- SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-5428 and info at SAGE – Hotline.
- Education and provider directory: National Resource Center on LGBT Aging.
- Local support (well-established community centers):
- Columbia: Harriet Hancock Center.
Tip: When searching for care, ask providers if they have staff training on LGBTQ+ aging. Your AAA can help you find welcoming services: GetCareSC.
Tribal members (Catawba Indian Nation)
- The Catawba Indian Nation is federally recognized and based near Rock Hill. Tribal elders should contact tribal administration for elder services and benefits coordination: Catawba Indian Nation.
- Title VI Native American aging programs (meals, caregiver support) and contacts: ACL – Older Indians (Title VI).
- Health services for tribal members may be coordinated through the IHS Nashville Area: Indian Health Service – Nashville Area.
Tip: Ask about Title VI meals and transport options and how they coordinate with your county AAA.
Rural seniors and families
- Rural health and community clinics: SC Office of Rural Health lists rural providers and programs.
- Telehealth: Ask your clinic if telehealth is available; Lifeline may help with broadband costs. See Lifeline Support.
- Disaster readiness: Rural roads can flood and power can be out longer. Keep a battery radio, paper phone list, and a small cash reserve. Follow county alerts via SCEMD.
Legal help and money management
- Free civil legal help (evictions, benefits appeals, consumer issues, elder law): South Carolina Legal Services.
- Lawyer referral: SC Bar – Get Legal Help.
- Benefits applications and forms assistance: SC Thrive.
- Guardianship and other court forms: SC Judicial Branch – Self-Help Center.
- Avoiding fraud: SC Department of Consumer Affairs and SCDOA – Senior Medicare Patrol.
Planning for storms, floods, and heat
- Evacuation zones and routes: SCEMD – Know Your Zone. Practice your route.
- Hurricane Guide and statewide publications: SCEMD – Publications.
- Special medical needs shelters: SC DHEC – Medical Needs Shelters.
- Stay informed:
- County emergency alerts: Links via SCEMD – County Emergency Management.
- NOAA weather radios and local TV/radio.
- Extreme heat: Hydrate, check on neighbors, and ask your AAA or 2-1-1 about cooling centers. General guidance: CDC – Extreme Heat.
Reality check: FEMA aid is not guaranteed and may not cover all losses. Keep receipts and take photos of damage. Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov as soon as possible after a federal declaration.
Program details and application tips
Food and cash help (summary)
| Program | What it serves | Key points | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Food budget | Apply online or at DSS; ask about expedited processing for very low income | SC DSS – SNAP |
| Senior meals | Meals at home or center | May have waitlists; call your AAA early | GetCareSC |
| CSFP | Monthly “Senior Box” | Age 60+ and income limits; local food banks administer | USDA FNS – CSFP Contacts |
| SFMNP | Produce vouchers | Seasonal sign-ups; limited quantities | SC Dept. of Agriculture – SFMNP |
Application tips:
- Bring ID, proof of address, income info (award letters), and medical expense receipts (can help with SNAP deductions).
- If traveling is hard, ask about phone or online interviews and reasonable accommodations.
Health coverage and Medicare help (summary)
| Program | What it serves | Key points | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Connections Medicaid | Health coverage | Includes some rides; long-term care via CLTC waivers | SC DHHS – Medicaid |
| CLTC (Waivers) | In-home care | Nursing-home level of care required; waitlists may apply | SC DHHS – CLTC |
| Extra Help | Part D costs | Apply through SSA; can be granted year-round | SSA – Extra Help |
| MSPs (QMB, SLMB, QI) | Medicare premiums/costs | Apply through SC DHHS; income/resource limits apply | SC DHHS – MSPs |
| I-CARE (SHIP) | Medicare counseling | Free, unbiased plan comparisons and appeals help | I-CARE – SCDOA |
Housing, utilities, and safety (summary)
| Program | What it serves | Key points | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP | Power bills | Crisis help possible; apply with your local Community Action Agency | SC OEO – LIHEAP |
| Weatherization | Energy-saving home work | Improves comfort and safety; may coordinate with LIHEAP | SC OEO – Weatherization |
| Homestead Exemption | Property taxes | Exempts first $50,000 of fair market value for 65+ (and certain others) | SC DOR – Homestead Exemption |
| Affordable rentals | Lower rent options | Search and apply widely; waitlists common | SC Housing – Find Housing |
| Legal help | Evictions/benefits | Free civil legal help for eligible seniors | SC Legal Services |
Resources by region (Area Agencies on Aging – AAAs)
South Carolina’s AAAs are your front door for senior services (meals, transportation connections, caregiver support, I-CARE/SHIP, and more). Use GetCareSC to confirm phone numbers and services near you: GetCareSC. You can also find a statewide list at SCDOA – Area Agencies on Aging.
| Region/AAA | Website |
|---|---|
| Appalachian Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging | ACOG AAA (Appalachian COG) |
| Upper Savannah Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging | Upper Savannah AAA |
| Catawba Regional Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging | Catawba AAA |
| Central Midlands Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging | Central Midlands AAA |
| Lower Savannah Council of Governments – Aging, Disability & Transportation Resource Center | Lower Savannah AAA/ADTRC |
| Santee-Lynches Regional Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging | Santee-Lynches AAA |
| Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments – Aging Services | Waccamaw AAA |
| Pee Dee Regional Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging | Pee Dee AAA |
| Trident Area Agency on Aging (Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester) | Trident AAA |
| Lowcountry Council of Governments – Aging Services | Lowcountry AAA |
If a link changes or a page is unavailable, search the agency name + “AAA” or use GetCareSC to find current contact info.
Real-world scenarios and steps
Scenario 1: Your power bill is overdue and you got a shutoff notice.
- Call your utility right away to ask about a payment plan and note the due date.
- Apply for energy help with your local LIHEAP provider: SC OEO – LIHEAP.
- Ask your AAA if they know of any crisis funds or churches that help in your area: GetCareSC.
- If you use powered medical equipment, tell your utility and doctor. Ask about medical need protections in emergencies.
Scenario 2: You were told to evacuate for a hurricane.
- Check your zone and route: SCEMD – Know Your Zone.
- If you need oxygen, dialysis, or other medical support, contact SC DHEC – Medical Needs Shelters.
- Keep meds, ID, and insurance cards with you; plan for pets (not all shelters accept them—ask SCEMD for pet-friendly shelter info).
- After the storm, document damage and apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
Scenario 3: Your Part D drug costs spiked mid-year.
- Call I-CARE (SHIP) through your local AAA for a plan review: I-CARE – SCDOA.
- Apply for SSA – Extra Help and the SC DHHS – Medicare Savings Programs if you meet income/resource limits.
Scenario 4: You suspect a nursing home is not responding to serious complaints.
- Contact the SCDOA – Long-Term Care Ombudsman for help. Keep dates, names, and what happened in a simple log.
Frequently Asked Questions
I need help fast. Who should South Carolina seniors call first?
Dial 2-1-1 or visit SC 211 to get live referrals for emergency food, rent/utility help, shelter, and more. They route you to local programs by ZIP code.
My power or AC is at risk—where do I get emergency utility help in South Carolina?
Apply through your county’s Community Action Agency for LIHEAP crisis assistance (utility shutoff or heating/cooling emergency). Learn more at the S.C. Office of Economic Opportunity: LIHEAP in South Carolina.
I need food right away—what are my options in South Carolina?
Check food pantries via SC 211 and apply for SNAP at DSS: SNAP in South Carolina. DSS can process expedited SNAP for some emergencies; apply online via the Benefits Portal.
Where can South Carolina seniors get help with rent, eviction, or finding affordable housing?
Start with SC Housing for affordable housing resources and local contacts. For urgent rental help or shelter, call SC 211 for programs in your county.
A hurricane, flood, or storm hit—where do South Carolina seniors find disaster help?
Check the South Carolina Emergency Management Division for shelters, evacuation routes, and updates: SCEMD. Use the official Hurricane Guide/app for alerts and plans during severe weather.
I’m a Medicaid member—can I get a ride to urgent medical appointments?
If you’re enrolled in Healthy Connections Medicaid, you may qualify for Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). See details at SCDHHS and contact the NEMT broker to schedule rides.
Who helps South Carolina seniors find local emergency resources and services?
Your regional Area Agency on Aging (through SCDOA) can connect you to meals, caregiver help, emergency funds, and more. Start at the South Carolina Department on Aging and ask for your local AAA.
Facing eviction, debt collection, or benefits denials—where can seniors get free legal help in South Carolina?
Contact South Carolina Legal Services for civil legal aid (eligibility applies). SC 211 can also refer you to local legal clinics.
How do I apply online for food assistance (SNAP) in South Carolina?
Apply via the DSS Benefits Portal and learn about eligibility here: DSS SNAP. You can apply online, by mail/fax, or in person at a county office.
Common challenges and how to handle them
- Long phone waits: Call early in the morning. Keep notes of who you spoke with, the date, and any case numbers.
- Missing documents: Ask the agency for a list. If you lost papers in a disaster, request replacements from Social Security, your bank, and your insurance company. Your AAA can help you organize paperwork: GetCareSC.
- Transportation barriers: Ask about phone interviews or home visits. For medical rides, see SC DHHS – Transportation.
- Technology issues: Libraries and senior centers often help with online applications. SC Thrive offers application assistance: SC Thrive.
Resource directory (official links)
- Statewide directories and hotlines
- Food and nutrition
- Health and insurance
- Housing and utilities
- Safety and emergencies
- Protection and legal help
- Veterans and tribal resources
- LGBTQ+ seniors
Disclaimer
Program details, eligibility rules, and funding can change. Always confirm the latest information with the relevant agency or program website linked above. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.
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: August 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.