Grants for Seniors in Chesapeake

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Chesapeake, Virginia (2026 Guide)

Last updated: December 21, 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

• Life-threatening emergency: Call 911.
• Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 (24/7) or visit the 988 Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
• Adult abuse/neglect (including self-neglect): Virginia Adult Protective Services Hotline 1-888-832-3858 (24/7). Learn more at Virginia APS.
• Eviction or housing crisis: Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline 1-833-NOEVICT (1-833-663-8428) or visit Eviction Legal Helpline.
• No food, urgent shelter, or bill shutoff risk: Call 2‑1‑1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Virginia for immediate local referrals.
• Veterans in crisis: Dial 988 then press 1, or chat at the Veterans Crisis Line.
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.

Key Takeaways

• Start applications at the statewide portal Virginia CommonHelp and connect with your local Area Agency on Aging, Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (SSSEVA), for meals, transportation, and benefits counseling.
• For healthcare: Enroll in Medicare (65+), then see if you qualify for Virginia Medicaid or Medicare Savings Programs to lower costs. Get unbiased help from VICAP.
• For housing: Apply to Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) through your local PHA (use the HUD PHA directory); look for HUD Section 202 senior apartments via the HUD Resource Locator.
• For home repairs and accessibility: Use Virginia’s EHARP, USDA 504 Repairs, and Weatherization Assistance.
• For utilities: Apply for LIHEAP Energy Assistance and check Dominion Energy EnergyShare. If you use natural gas, contact Virginia Natural Gas for assistance programs.
• For food: Apply for SNAP, ask SSSEVA about Meals on Wheels, and check the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
• Caregivers: Apply for the Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher and explore Dementia Capable Virginia.
• Always expect some waitlists (especially housing and repairs). Apply early, keep copies, and know your appeal rights.

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Where to Start: One-Stop Applications and Local Navigation

These “front doors” help you apply for multiple benefits and get trusted local guidance.

Quick Start Table

Tip: Create a folder with photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency, proof of income and assets, current bills, lease/mortgage, and all insurance cards. Most programs ask for these.

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Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Medicare (65+ or qualifying disability)

Medicare covers hospital and medical care, with options for drug coverage and Medicare Advantage. Review and compare plans at Medicare.gov. For free, unbiased help choosing Part D or Medicare Advantage plans and checking for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy), contact VICAP or call 804‑662‑9333.

Virginia Medicaid for Older Adults

Medicaid can help with doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, nursing home care, and in‑home supports through waivers. Check eligibility and apply via CommonHelp. Learn more at Cover Virginia and the Virginia DMAS site: CCC Plus program.

Reality check: If your income/assets are close to the limit, ask about Medicaid “Medically Needy/Spenddown,” and Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) that can pay Medicare premiums and cost sharing. VICAP and your AAA can help you screen.

Long‑Term Care Ombudsman

If you have concerns about care or rights in a nursing home or assisted living facility, contact the Virginia Long‑Term Care Ombudsman for free, confidential help: Virginia Ombudsman Program.

Medical Transportation

• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have Medicaid, you can get rides to covered medical appointments. Learn how at Virginia NEMT.
• Public transit and paratransit (see Transportation section below).

Healthcare at a Glance

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Income, Cash, and Tax Relief

• Social Security, SSI, and SSDI: Apply/manage benefits at Social Security. SSI can help very low‑income adults 65+. Details at SSI program.
• Auxiliary Grants (AG): If you are older, blind, or disabled and live in an assisted living facility or adult foster care, Virginia’s AG can help pay. Learn more at Virginia Auxiliary Grants.
• General Relief: Limited and local. Availability varies by locality. Basics at Virginia General Relief. Call 2‑1‑1 Virginia to see if Chesapeake offers it now.
• Property Tax Relief (local): Many Virginia localities offer property tax relief or deferrals for older adults with limited income. Contact the City of Chesapeake Commissioner of the Revenue via the city’s website: City of Chesapeake (official site) and ask for “Real Estate Tax Relief for the Elderly or Disabled.”
• State income tax: Virginia’s age deduction may reduce your state income tax if you meet income rules. Details at the Virginia Department of Taxation Age Deduction.
• Free tax help: AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides free tax prep for most seniors: AARP Tax‑Aide.

Tip: Keep notices, decisions, and appeal deadlines. If you’re denied, ask right away about reconsiderations or hearings.

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Housing, Rent, and Homelessness Prevention

Housing help in Hampton Roads is competitive. Apply early, add your name to multiple lists, and keep contact info current.

Rent Help and Affordable Housing

• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Helps pay rent in private apartments that meet program standards. You typically pay ~30% of income; the voucher pays the rest. Find your local public housing agency (PHA) and open waitlists via the HUD PHA Directory. Also see Virginia Housing HCV info.
• HUD Section 202 Senior Housing: Affordable apartments for older adults, often with on‑site supports. Search for “Elderly/Disabled” housing via the HUD Resource Locator.
• HUD‑Approved Housing Counseling: Help with renting, fair housing rights, foreclosure prevention, and reverse mortgages through HUD Counseling in Virginia.

Homelessness and Eviction Prevention

• State programs and local Continuum of Care (CoC): Start at the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Homeless and Special Needs Housing. Call 2‑1‑1 Virginia for the Chesapeake/Hampton Roads CoC entry point near you.
• Eviction Legal Help: Call 1-833-NOEVICT or visit the Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline.

Reality check: The statewide pandemic-era Rent Relief Program ended. Today, aid is local and limited. Apply as soon as you get a pay‑or‑quit notice, and ask your landlord for a written payment plan.

Housing & Home Repair Quick View

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Home Repair, Weatherization, and Accessibility

• Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program (EHARP): Health/safety repairs and accessibility changes (ramps, roofing, electrical, plumbing) for qualified low-income households. Administered by DHCD through local partners: Virginia EHARP.
• USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): For homeowners age 62+ with very low income. Grants up to $10,000forhealth/safetyrepairs(recaptureifyousellwithin3years);loansupto$40,000 at low interest may be available. Virginia info: USDA 504 Repairs (VA).
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy-saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing, HVAC safety checks) for eligible households. Learn more at Virginia WAP.
• Nonprofits: Habitat for Humanity offers critical repairs and accessibility in some areas: Find Habitat. Rebuilding Together provides free safety-focused home repairs through local affiliates: Find Rebuilding Together.

Reality check: These programs often have waitlists. Ask SSSEVA to help document hazards (e.g., falls, unsafe wiring) and request priority where allowed.

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Utility and Energy Bill Help (Electric, Gas, Water)

State and Utility Programs

• Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Covers heating (Fuel Assistance), emergencies (Crisis), and summer cooling. Eligibility includes income and energy need. Program windows and details: Virginia LIHEAP.
• Dominion Energy EnergyShare: Bill-pay help and weatherization for eligible customers; funds are limited and may reopen throughout the year. Learn more: Dominion Energy EnergyShare.
• Natural Gas: If you use Virginia Natural Gas, ask about assistance, budget billing, and payment plans. Start here: Virginia Natural Gas (official site).
• Water/Sewer: Contact City of Chesapeake Public Utilities (see the City of Chesapeake official site) about payment plans or local aid, and call 2‑1‑1 Virginia for charities that help with water bills.

Energy & Utilities Comparison

Tip: Ask your utility about budget billing, medical necessity protections, and arrearage forgiveness. Get every agreement in writing.

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Food and Nutrition

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors with high medical costs may get a higher deduction. Learn/apply at VDSS SNAP or via CommonHelp.
• Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals: Home-delivered meals and meals at senior centers are coordinated locally by Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia. Contact SSSEVA for eligibility and to apply.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (Farm Market Fresh): Checks for fresh produce from participating farmers. Info at Virginia SFMNP.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly box of USDA staple foods for eligible older adults; administered locally by food banks. For Chesapeake and nearby, contact the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
• Food pantries: Use 2‑1‑1 Virginia or the Foodbank’s Find Help to locate pantries.

Food Programs at a Glance

Reality check: Meal delivery routes can have waitlists. Ask SSSEVA about emergency food options or temporary substitutes while you wait.

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Transportation (Chesapeake and Hampton Roads)

• Public Transit: Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) serves the area with bus routes and light rail in nearby Norfolk. See routes, schedules, and senior discounts at Hampton Roads Transit.
• ADA Paratransit: If you cannot use fixed-route buses due to disability, HRT’s paratransit service (HRT Access) provides door-to-door rides within coverage areas. Learn more and apply at HRT Paratransit (Access).
• AAA Rides: SSSEVA may coordinate volunteer driver programs, ride vouchers, or scheduled trips to medical appointments. Contact SSSEVA.
• Medicaid NEMT: If you have Medicaid, request rides to covered medical appointments through Virginia NEMT.

Tip: Ask about reduced-fare ID cards, travel training, and companion ride policies.

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Caregivers and Dementia Support

• Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher: Reimburses eligible family caregivers (often up to $400) for short breaks from caregiving. Availability varies; join interest lists. Details at Respite Services in Virginia.
• Dementia Capable Virginia: Care planning tools, safety checklists, and training for families and providers: Dementia Capable VA.
• Alzheimer’s Association: 24/7 Helpline 1‑800‑272‑3900, local support groups, and care consultation: Alzheimer’s Association Helpline & Resources.

Reality check: Respite funds open and close as money allows. Ask SSSEVA about backup options like adult day health, Medicaid personal care under CCC Plus, or short-term in‑home aides.

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Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): Free comprehensive dental care for eligible older adults with disabilities or fragile health. Waitlists are common. Learn more at Virginia Dental Lifeline Network.
• VDAF Mission of Mercy (MOM): Free large-scale dental clinics held around Virginia. Check the schedule at VDA Foundation (MOM).
• Reduced‑Fee Dental Schools: Virginia Commonwealth University provides reduced‑fee services at VCU School of Dentistry clinics.
• Vision & Hearing: Lions Clubs in Virginia may help with eyeglasses or hearing aids; availability varies by club: Lions of Virginia. For telecommunications equipment for hearing/speech disabilities, see the Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TEDP).

Tip: Check your city/county public health department and free clinics for occasional low‑cost dental days and hygiene clinics.

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Internet and Phone Discounts

• Lifeline: Federal program providing discounted phone or internet service for eligible low-income households. Learn more and apply at the FCC Lifeline Consumer Page.
• Virginia Relay: Services for individuals with hearing or speech disabilities, including captioned telephone services. Details at Virginia Relay.

Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended new funding in 2024. Ask your internet provider about their own low‑income plans.

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Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Fraud

• Legal aid (civil issues like housing, benefits, consumer): Find your local office and apply at the statewide portal: Virginia Legal Aid.
• Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Learn to spot and report Medicare fraud, billing errors, and scams: Virginia SMP.
• Virginia Attorney General Consumer Protection: File complaints and learn about scams: VA OAG Consumer Protection.

Warning: Real government programs do not charge application fees. Be cautious of anyone guaranteeing approvals for a fee.

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Inclusive Resources

Veterans and Military Families

• VA Health Care, pensions, and Aid & Attendance (extra funds for in‑home care or assisted living): VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound.
• Find VA medical centers and clinics near you: Find VA Locations.
• Housing assistance for veterans (adaptations, loans): VA Housing Assistance.

Tip: Ask about VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide services to get help at home a few hours a week.

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (peer support and resources): 1‑877‑360‑LGBT. Learn more at SAGE Hotline.
• Equality Virginia (statewide advocacy and resources): Equality Virginia.
• Ask SSSEVA and VICAP for LGBTQ+‑affirming providers and inclusive Medicare Advantage plans.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS): Services and supports for older adults with disabilities: DARS.
• Centers for Independent Living (CILs): Skills training, peer support, and advocacy: Find a CIL in Virginia.
• Medicaid waivers and CCC Plus for in‑home support: CCC Plus.

Tribal and Native Elders

• Title VI Native American Aging Programs (nutrition and supportive services): ACL Title VI Programs.
• Indian Health Service (eligibility and care options): IHS.
• Learn about Virginia’s federally recognized tribes and contacts via the Commonwealth: Virginia Tribes (state info).

Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas

Parts of southern Chesapeake are rural. Transportation and broadband can be limited.

• Use 2‑1‑1 Virginia to find the closest pantry, clinic, or ride service.
• Ask SSSEVA about volunteer driver programs, grocery delivery options, and telephone reassurance.
• Consider mail‑order prescription delivery via your Part D or Medicare Advantage plan (ask VICAP for help comparing).

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Resources by Region (Hampton Roads / Chesapeake)

• Area Agency on Aging: Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (SSSEVA).
• Food Bank: Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
• Public Transit/Paratransit: Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) and HRT Access Paratransit.
• Statewide portals and help: Virginia CommonHelp, 2‑1‑1 Virginia, No Wrong Door Virginia.
• City government hub: City of Chesapeake (official website) — use site search for “Human Services,” “Tax Relief for the Elderly/Disabled,” and “Public Utilities.”

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Step‑by‑Step: How to Get the Most Help Fast

1. Call SSSEVA and ask for an options counseling appointment. Bring your documents.
2. Apply on CommonHelp for SNAP, Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP).
3. Contact your electric and gas utilities about hardship funds, budget billing, and medical protections.
4. If housing is unstable, add your name to HUD Section 202 senior housing and your local Housing Choice Voucher waitlists via the HUD directory. Call 2‑1‑1 for your CoC entry point.
5. For home safety hazards, apply to EHARP, USDA 504, and Weatherization.
6. If you have Medicare, call VICAP to review your drug plan and check eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help.
7. Caregivers: Apply for the Respite Voucher and ask SSSEVA about adult day programs and in‑home aide options.

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Program Realities, Tips, and Warnings

• Expect waitlists for housing and repairs. Apply to multiple programs and keep phone numbers updated with each agency.
• Keep copies of everything you submit. If denied, ask for the appeal process and deadlines immediately.
• Report changes (income, address, hospital stays) to SNAP/Medicaid and other programs right away to avoid overpayments.
• Use only official websites (.gov, .org). Be careful with “application helpers” charging fees.
• For Medicare and Medicaid billing issues, contact Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I apply for multiple benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP) in one place?
A: Use Virginia CommonHelp. If you need help with the application, ask SSSEVA or call 2‑1‑1 Virginia.

Q: I’m on Medicare—can I still get help with premiums and copays?
A: Possibly. Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) can pay Part B premiums and sometimes copays if you qualify. Ask VICAP to screen you and help with enrollment.

Q: My power may be shut off. What can I do today?
A: Call your utility right now to ask for a payment plan and any medical protections. Apply for LIHEAP Crisis at Virginia LIHEAP. If you’re a Dominion customer, check EnergyShare. Also call 2‑1‑1 Virginia.

Q: Are there programs to help with prescription drug costs?
A: Review your Part D plan with VICAP and ask about Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy). Your pharmacy may also know local discount options, but verify they work with your plan.

Q: I want to stay at home and avoid a nursing home. Where should I look?
A: Ask about the Medicaid CCC Plus program for in‑home services, and contact SSSEVA about personal care, home‑delivered meals, and caregiver support.

Q: Can I get help with property taxes in Chesapeake?
A: Many Virginia localities, including Chesapeake, offer property tax relief for older adults with limited income. Contact the City of Chesapeake’s Commissioner of the Revenue via the City of Chesapeake website and ask for “Real Estate Tax Relief for the Elderly or Disabled.”

Q: Where can I find senior apartments near me?
A: Use the HUD Resource Locator and filter for “Elderly/Disabled.” Also check statewide listings at VirginiaHousingSearch.com.

Q: What if I need a wheelchair ramp or bathroom grab bars?
A: Apply to EHARP and USDA 504 Repairs. Ask SSSEVA about local nonprofits like Habitat or Rebuilding Together.

Q: Who can help me with legal questions about an eviction or benefits denial?
A: Start with Virginia Legal Aid or the Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline at 1‑833‑NOEVICT.

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Helpful Tables Round‑Up

Application “Front Doors”

Healthcare at a Glance

Housing & Home Repair

Energy & Utilities

Food Programs

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Disclaimer

Program rules, funding, and eligibility change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program before you apply. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical 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: 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.