Grants for Seniors in Georgia
Help for Seniors in Georgia – 24 Assistance Programs
Georgia has hot humid summers and cold winters. This state was listed as the third best state in terms of living expenses, tax issues, and social life by the Kiplinger Magazine in 2018. On the other hand, it has been ranked as the best place to live in America by the Money Magazine in 2020. It means that living conditions for seniors are getting better each year in this state. Although it has quite affordable housing options, elder citizens may need financial, housing, rent, or utility assistance. There are several the federal government, state, and local community programs and organizations.
State Resources for Seniors
The Division of Aging Services, a branch of the Georgia Department of Human Services is in charge of the affairs of seniors in the state. The Division works to make elderly residents live in a safe and self-sufficient manner as much as possible. To do this, some programs have been put in place to assist seniors who are in need. In the absence of government programs, links are provided to relevant private programs and organizations that may be of help. Seniors can visit the website of the Division of Aging services at https://aging.georgia.gov/.
Financial Assistance
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that pays benefits to eligible seniors with low-income. Seniors over the age of 65 may qualify for these benefits, if they meet financial requirements. Seniors who benefit from the SSI program receive monthly payments to be used to support their basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. The amount varies depending on the income level, asset value and cost of living in the area when the senior resides. More details are available at https://dph.georgia.gov/sites/dph.georgia.gov/files/CMS%20P2P%20Social%20Security%20sheet%20Revised%209.18.13.pdf.
For seniors who are 55 or older and able to work, the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provides training to help them develop useful skills that can serve them. Beneficiaries train in community service positions and get some remuneration, with the ultimate goal of being transitioned to sustainable unsubsidized employment. Career counseling services are also offered to help them get jobs. For additional information, visit https://aging.georgia.gov/programs-and-services/senior-community-service-employment-program-scsep.
Housing and Rent Assistance
The HouseProud Program is a local community service that assists home repairment for low-income seniors, veterans, and disabled landlords in Georgia. The aim of this program is to provide safe, warm, and dry homes for people in need. Some of their services include caulking doors and windows, solving the mechanical problems related to heating and cooling units, replacing electrical outlets and fixtures, redecorating houses for wheelchair ramps, installing roof vents or drip edges, and so on. Seniors who are 55 years of age or older, veterans, and disabled homeowners are qualified for the HouseProud Program. To get help, please visit https://www.houseproudatlanta.org/get-help or by phone at 404 464 5950.
Catholic Charities Georgia presents various programs based on the needs of people. It has Veterans Support Services that are intended to end homelessness in Georgia since some veterans are facing homelessness when returning from the military. Apart from emergency shelters, this charity organization presents financial training and mental health counseling. To find out more, go to https://catholiccharitiesatlanta.org/veterans/ or call 770 790 3119.
The Salvation Army Georgia is a non-profit establishment that offers housing and homeless services, food services, emergency financial support, adult rehabilitation, and emergency disaster services for seniors in financial hardship. Seniors who can benefit from these services can make contact with the nearest local office. The link to their official website is as follows https://salvationarmygeorgia.org/ or dial 770 441 6200.
Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants in Georgia is also recognized as Section 504 Home Repair Program. It offers home repairing services for low-income seniors. This program aims to make sure that older residents live in healthy conditions at their homes. To be eligible for this program, you must be a landlord and 62 years of age and older. This program also provides advances and grants for seniors ranging from $7,500 to $20,000. Qualified applicants can both get loans and grants up to $27,500. For additional questions, click on the following link https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/g. For additional resources to help with home improvements and repairs, read Home Repair Grants For Seniors.
Healthcare Assistance
Seniors in Georgia over the age of 65 may qualify for Medicaid assistance. The Medicaid program is a federal initiative that provides healthcare for low-income residents. Low-cost health insurance is provided with plans that cover a variety of medical services and procedures, as well as doctors visits. Medicaid is offered to seniors who qualify as having low or very low income, as determined by outlined income guidelines. The program may be able to assist with the payment of past due medical bills within the previous three months. Seniors who wish to apply would need to bring along certain documents like birth certificates, photo ID cards, paycheck stubs, recent bank statements, social security numbers, etc. Medicaid also has waiver programs that help seniors continue to live in their homes and get the care they need. Seniors can find more information on the program at https://medicaid.georgia.gov/programs/elderly.
The Georgia Cares Program is one of the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP). This program is managed by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Division of Aging Services (DAS). Seniors or their caregivers who do not know how to be informed about different health issues or drugs can get in touch with this program. For further information, please follow the link https://www.gacares.org or by phone at 1 866 552 4464.
Georgia Relay is a local telecommunication country that supports senior residents. It is a free community service that is also supported by the state of Georgia. People who are having difficulties hearing other people, deaf, or troubling speech are qualified for this benefit. Accepted candidates receive free telecommunication materials that are compatible with their disabilities. To access the application form, click on https://georgiarelay.org/ or contact 1 866 694 5824.
The Community Care Services Program (CCSP) was created and has been managed by the Georgia Department of Community Health. This is a home Medicaid program for older residents. It may offer different services depending on the applicant’s health and financial condition. Some of their services are as follows
- Adult Day Health: This service follows the health condition of seniors day by day.
- Alternative Living Services: It provides emergency personnel care to nursing homes in case of need. These homes are open 24 hours to serve people.
- Emergency Response Services: This is a special telecommunication service that provides two-way communication.
- Home Delivered Meals: These food delivery services are provided to the seniors’ homes.
- Home Delivered Services: Seniors who need nursing or therapy services at their homes can benefit from these services.
- Personal Support Services: These benefits are personalized based on the applicant’s case. It may offer personal care, food preparation, housekeeping, and grocery shopping.
To read more about these services, go to https://medicaid.georgia.gov/sites/medicaid.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/17CCSP.pdf.
Apart from government assistance, there are charitable clinics that provide free or discounted healthcare for seniors who require assistance. These organizations operate under Georgia’s Charitable Care Network. The clinics serve uninsured residents and attend to low-income Georgia residents. Services in these charitable clinics are provided by volunteers and include dental, vision, mental health and other care options. Some clinics are free, while other charge a small fee or request for a voluntary donation from patients. Seniors who wish to visit these charitable clinics can visit http://charitablecarenetwork.com/find-a-clinic/ for the address of the nearest location.
Dental Grants and Benefits
Seniors in Georgia can get dental services at low or no cost through the Donated Dental Services (GDS) program. The Georgia Dental Association (GDA)partners with DDS to provide free, comprehensive dental treatments to seniors and medically challenged persons. Services are provided by a network of volunteer dentists, and overall funding is provided by the state. Seniors can also apply for grants and receive treatment form specialist dentists across the state. The services provided include cleaning, crowns, extractions, fillings, etc. In some cases, a little payment may be required if the senior can afford it. Seniors can apply online for assistance at https://dentallifeline.org/donated-dental-services-dds-application/.
There are also several clinics in the state that provide low-cost or free dental care for Georgia residents. The Georgia Dental Association provides a directory of these clinics at https://www.gadental.org/docs/librariesprovider16/default-document-library/dental-clinic-list-spreadsheet—oct-2019.pdf?sfvrsn=599afe8a_0.
Oral health is deteriorating on a daily basis. Oral health, like overall health, should not be overlooked, even if the senior is on a fixed income or unable to pay. Learn how seniors can get dental grants in Georgia by visiting Dental Grants in Georgia.
Food Assistance
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a government program set up to help residents who are unable to afford food. Seniors in Georgia can however take advantage of the Georgia Senior SNAP program which is a simplified application process. The aim of Senior SNAP is to make it easier for elderly residents to apply for, and receive SNAP benefits. Seniors from the age of 60 and above may qualify for this expedited application process. SNAP recipients get an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card which they can use to purchase approved food items from authorized grocery locations. Under this program, seniors may be able to receive additional benefits if their medical expenses exceed $35 per month. Seniors can find more information on the Georgia Senior SNAP program, visit https://dfcs.georgia.gov/snap-food-stamps/senior-snap.
Seniors can also apply for meal assistance to receive Congregate Meals, which are delivered in a group setting, or Home-delivered Meals. In both cases, the food prepared is approved by a dietician so that it meets the nutritional requirements of the seniors. Details on the programs are available at https://aging.georgia.gov/food-access.
The Georgia Gateway Program is also recognized as the Compass Program assists nutritious and healthy meals for seniors. It is run by the state government. Adult residents who cannot cook or in financial hardship are eligible for this program. To see details, please visit https://georgia.gov. Aside from the state government, there are numerous programs and benefits available to seniors in need of food assistance. Continue reading to find a list of Food Programs for Seniors.
Help with Utility Bills
Financially challenged seniors in Georgia can apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This federal program is administered by the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) and helps seniors get access to funding for their home energy bills. LIHEAP assistance helps out with paying the heating costs of seniors during the cold winter months, ensuring that they continue to live in decent conditions. LIHEAP applications for seniors aged 65 and older begins in the month of November (one month earlier than regular applications). Seniors can also take advantage of the LIHEAP Cooling Program to get assistance with energy bills during the hot summer months. Seniors who wish to apply for LIHEAP can visit https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap for more information.
Similar to LIHEAP, the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps seniors pay for their utility bills, this time focusing on water and sewer bills. Help is rendered to challenged seniors, helping them with current and past due water bills. Assistance is only possible if the water vendor for the house participates in the program as payments are made directly to the beneficiary’s account with the vendor. Seniors interested in LIHWAP can visit https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap.
Senior citizens in Georgia may also be eligible to receive assistance in form of a senior citizen discount. This discount applies to electric and natural gas bills, shaving off a portion of their cost. Eligibility is usually determined by income; however, all applicants must be at least 65 years old. More information on senior discounts can be found at https://psc.ga.gov/about-the-psc/consumer-corner/consumer-advisories/senior-citizens-discounts/.
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For phone service subsidization, seniors can apply for the Lifeline Link-Up Assistance Program. The program gives discounted service for qualified seniors, cutting down their voice and broadband bills. Seniors who are interested in applying for Lifeline assistance can visit https://psc.ga.gov/about-the-psc/consumer-corner/telephone/consumer-advisories/lifeline-link-up-assistance-georgia-programs/.
Atlanta Gas Light is a local electric company that helps low or moderate-income seniors with their utility expenses. It provides various discounts based on the applicant’s financial condition each month. For more information, please visit https://www.atlantagaslight.com/residential/ways-to-save/energy-assistance-programs.html or dial 1 800 869 1150.
Carroll Electric Membership Corporation is a local firm that assists discounts for older customers using their service. Seniors facing financial difficulties in paying their utility bills may contact this company. Residents who are 62 years of age or older are qualified. To apply, https://carrollemc.com/content/senior-citizen-discount or call 1 877 850 6200.
Transportation Assistance
Lifespan is an organization that provides medical transportation assistance to seniors through a program known as Medical Escort Transportation (MET). This program relies on volunteer drivers to provide non-emergency medical transportation to seniors as required. The services are door-to-door, providing maximum relief for the elderly residents who require this assistance. Interested seniors can visit https://lifespanatlanta.org/what-is-met/.
Residents of Bartow County can take advantage of the Bartow County Transit system. This program provides transportation assistance, with fare prices starting from $1. The services provided are non-emergency services, however, the drivers are trained to perform CPR and can attend to some basic health concerns that seniors may face while in transit. For more information, visit https://www.bartowcountyga.gov/departments/transit/index.php.
Other transportation assistance programs available in the state can be found listed at https://ada.georgia.gov/helpful-resources/mobility-and-accommodations/transportation.
Charities and Organizations
The Salvation Army in Georgia helps seniors in several ways. One of the most sought-after forms of assistance is shelter. Seniors who are homeless or on the verge of homelessness can turn to the Salvation Army for assistance. Shelters and affordable housing are available, and financial assistance may be given to pay for rent, depending on the availability of funds. Free meals are also provided in a group setting through soup kitchens. This arrangement allows seniors get much needed nutrition to stay healthy. Information of the full list of services offered by the Salvation Army can be found at https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/georgia/.
The Wesley Woods Foundation is another charity that cares for seniors. Several living communities are provided, to help seniors who need assisted living or who desire to stay in a welcoming community of similar people. Additional details can be found at https://www.wesleywoods.org/about/.
Employment Assistance
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is subsidized by the Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services. Low-income seniors seeking a part-time job and 55 years of age or older can apply for this program. The purpose of this program is to encourage seniors to participate in work and social environments. For additional questions, please get in touch with 404 657 5332 or go to https://aging.georgia.gov/programs-and-services/senior-community-service-employment-program-scsep. Find out which part-time employment are most suitable for your needs once you retire. Here we listed the Best Part-Time Jobs For Seniors.
Many of these support programs base financial eligibility on the federal poverty level. Use the Federal Poverty Level Calculator to determine your poverty level.
Assistance for Senior Veterans
The Catholic Charities of Atlanta runs a Veteran Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) program. Through this program, eligible veterans can receive up to $700 to help them pay their rent and utility bills. The organization also helps veterans get access to their state benefits by educating them and assisting them with applications. Veterans can visit https://catholiccharitiesatlanta.org/services/veterans-services/ for the program flyer which contains further details on other forms of assistance rendered.
State War Veterans Homes are also available for eligible veterans. These homes provide a community environment where veterans can receive the care they need. A residency fee is charged for staying in the facilities, but this can be paid off by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). For more information, visit https://veterans.georgia.gov/state-war-veterans-homes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What financial assistance programs are available to seniors in Georgia? Seniors in Georgia can benefit from the Georgia Senior SNAP program for nutritional support, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help with energy bills, and the Elderly Legal Assistance Program for free legal advice on financial matters.
2. How do seniors in Georgia apply for Medicaid? Medicaid applications in Georgia can be submitted online through the Georgia Gateway portal or by visiting a local Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) office. Seniors need to provide documentation of income, assets, residency, and identity.
3. Are there housing assistance programs for seniors in Georgia? The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) offers the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) to help low-income seniors afford safe housing. Additionally, the DCA provides information on senior-specific housing developments and subsidized housing opportunities.
4. Can seniors receive assistance with utility bills in Georgia? Yes, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial assistance to eligible senior households to help manage the cost of heating and cooling their homes.
5. How can seniors get help with prescription medication costs in Georgia? The GeorgiaCares program offers free counseling to seniors on Medicare, including assistance with understanding Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) and finding programs to help reduce medication costs.
6. What property tax exemptions are available for seniors in Georgia? Many counties in Georgia offer property tax exemptions or deferrals for seniors based on age and income criteria. Seniors should check with their local county tax assessor’s office for specific eligibility requirements and application procedures.
7. What in-home care services are available for Georgia seniors? The Georgia Division of Aging Services administers the Community Care Services Program (CCSP), which provides eligible seniors with services such as personal care, meal delivery, and emergency response systems, allowing them to remain in their homes.
8. How can seniors access transportation services in Georgia? The Georgia Department of Human Services offers transportation services for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential activities through the Coordinated Transportation System, available to seniors in many counties.
9. What nutritional programs are offered to seniors in Georgia? The Senior Nutrition Program, funded by the Older Americans Act, offers congregate meals at local senior centers and home-delivered meals for homebound seniors, aiming to improve nutrition and reduce isolation.
10. How can seniors in Georgia receive legal assistance? The Georgia Legal Services Program (GLSP) provides free legal assistance to low-income seniors on issues such as housing, healthcare, and public benefits, helping to protect their rights and access needed resources.