Grants for Seniors in Nashville

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Nashville, Tennessee (2026 Guide)

Last updated: December 22, 2025

This guide brings together the most useful, current programs that help older adults in Nashville (Davidson County) with health care, housing, food, utilities, transportation, caregiving, and legal protections. Links go to official government or well‑established organizations.

Key takeaways

• Start with your Area Agency on Aging & Disability for a single, no‑cost entry point to many services (in‑home help, meals, transportation). Use the state directory to reach the Greater Nashville office.
• Blend Medicare with TennCare programs to reduce costs. SHIP counselors provide free, unbiased help and screen you for savings like Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help.
• For housing, look at MDHA (Nashville’s housing authority) for Section 8 vouchers and public housing, THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly, weatherization, and state property tax relief/freeze.
• Find food support through SNAP, Meals on Wheels, congregate meal sites, Second Harvest, CSFP senior food boxes, and seasonal Senior Farmers’ Market vouchers.
• Energy help runs through LIHEAP (in Davidson County, via the local administering agency) and Weatherization (THDA). Ask your utility about hardship funds.
• Expect paperwork and waitlists for some programs. Keep copies of everything and use free helpers like SHIP and the AAAD to avoid delays and scams.

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If you need emergency help

• Life‑threatening emergencies: Call 911
• Mental health or emotional crisis: Dial 988 or visit the 988 Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org
• Suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation (Tennessee Adult Protective Services): Report using the state’s options:
  https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/adults/adult-protective-services.html
• Immediate local help (food, shelter, utilities, transportation): Dial 2‑1‑1 or search United Way 211 Tennessee:
  https://www.211.org/local/tennessee
• Domestic violence and sexual assault support (statewide resources via the Tennessee Coalition):
  https://www.tncoalition.org/get-help
• Veterans in crisis: Call 988 and press 1 or visit the Veterans Crisis Line:
  https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Emergency quick reference

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How to use this guide

• Start with your Area Agency on Aging & Disability (AAAD). They screen for multiple programs and can help you apply.
• Use SHIP counselors for Medicare choices and to find cost‑saving programs.
• Gather documents first (ID, proof of TN residency, income/asset info, medical bills, housing/utility papers). This speeds up applications.
• Reality check: Some programs have waitlists or limited funds. Apply early. You have appeal rights if denied.

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Start here: Your Area Agency on Aging & Disability (Greater Nashville region)

Your AAAD is the front door to many aging services, including in‑home support, meals, caregiver help, transportation options, and health promotion classes. Nashville is served by the Greater Nashville region’s AAAD.

• Find the AAAD that serves Nashville (Davidson County) using the Tennessee AAAD directory:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html

What they can connect you to:

• Information & Assistance: Personalized help to find local services and benefits:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging.html
• Home and Community‑Based Services (OPTIONS and Title III‑B): Help with personal care, homemaker services, and home‑delivered meals if you’re not eligible for TennCare:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html
• Family Caregiver Support (NFCSP) and Lifespan Respite: Training, counseling, and respite care so caregivers can take breaks:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/caregiving.html
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Advocacy for residents in nursing homes and assisted living:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/long-term-care-ombudsman.html

Tip: Write down your medications, doctors, and daily living needs (bathing, dressing, cooking) before you call. It helps staff match you to services faster.

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Medicare, TennCare, and lowering your health costs

Free, unbiased advice:

• Get Medicare counseling through Tennessee’s SHIP program:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html
• Compare plans and check coverage on Medicare’s official site:
  https://www.medicare.gov

Programs that can cut your costs:

• Medicare Savings Programs (administered by TennCare): May pay your Part B premium and reduce other Medicare costs if your income and resources fit the limits:
  https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/medicare-savings-programs.html
• Extra Help (Part D Low‑Income Subsidy): Lowers prescription drug premiums and copays:
  https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help
• TennCare CHOICES (Long‑Term Services & Supports): In‑home support or nursing facility care for those who meet medical and financial rules:
  https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html
• Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): Bundles Medicare and Medicaid services to help eligible seniors remain in the community. Availability is limited; ask if it operates in your county:
  Medicare PACE overview: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/pace
  TennCare contact: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare.html

Prescription help:

• Ask SHIP to review your Part D or Medicare Advantage plan for better drug pricing.
• Many drugmakers offer patient assistance programs. A national starting point is the HealthWell Foundation:
  https://www.healthwellfoundation.org/

Hearing, vision, and dental:

• Dental Lifeline Network’s Donated Dental Services (Tennessee) for seniors with disabilities or fragile health:
  https://dentallifeline.org/tennessee/
• Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry (Nashville) low‑cost dental clinics:
  https://home.mmc.edu/academics/sod/clinical-services/
• EyeCare America (American Academy of Ophthalmology) for eligible seniors:
  https://www.aao.org/eyecare-america

Local safety‑net and community clinics:

• Nashville General Hospital financial assistance:
  https://www.nashvillegeneral.org/patients/financial-assistance
• Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center (FQHC, sliding scale):
  https://www.mwchc.org
• Neighborhood Health (FQHC, multiple Nashville locations):
  https://www.neighborhoodhealthtn.org

Health coverage and savings at a glance

Reality check: Applications for CHOICES and Medicare Savings Programs can take time and require documentation and assessments. If you’re denied, you can appeal—ask SHIP or legal aid for help.

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Housing, home repairs, and utilities in Nashville

Renters (Nashville/Davidson County)

• Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) and Public Housing are run locally by the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA). Vouchers and public housing often have waitlists.
  Learn about MDHA programs and openings:
  https://www.nashville-mdha.org
• Find other Tennessee public housing agencies (for nearby counties or cities):
  https://www.hud.gov/states/tennessee/renting/hawebsites

Homeowners

• THDA Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (ERP): Safety‑critical repairs for homeowners age 60+ with low income. Administered through local partners:
  https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (grants and loans): For rural homeowners age 62+ to fix health/safety issues (grants) and other repairs (loans). Useful for seniors in surrounding rural counties:
  https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy‑saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing):
  https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap

Property taxes

• Property Tax Relief (state reimbursement of part of your property tax if you meet age, income, and other rules):
  https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html
• Property Tax Freeze (some local governments freeze your tax at the current amount if you qualify; check if Davidson County participates):
  https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-freeze.html
• Tip: Contact the Davidson County Trustee’s office to ask about local application steps and deadlines (use the Comptroller pages above to confirm current rules).

Utilities and energy bills (Davidson County)

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating and cooling bills. In Davidson County, LIHEAP is administered by the local agency. Start with THDA’s LIHEAP page and follow the local instructions:
  https://thda.org/renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
• Weatherization (WAP): See THDA program information and ask for the Davidson County provider:
  https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• Local utility hardship funds: Call your electric, gas, and water utilities to ask about hardship programs or payment plans. You can also dial 2‑1‑1 for community programs in Nashville:
  https://www.211.org/local/tennessee

Homelessness prevention and shelter

• Coordinated entry and shelter referrals are handled locally. In Nashville, start by calling 2‑1‑1 for the latest shelter and prevention options:
  https://www.211.org/local/tennessee
• HUD’s Tennessee homelessness program contacts (for broader assistance and provider lists):
  https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/

Housing programs at a glance

Reality check: Repair programs prioritize urgent hazards (heat, roof, accessibility), not cosmetic fixes. Expect an inspection and contractor timelines. Keep all award letters and invoices.

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Food and nutrition in Nashville

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors can deduct medical expenses, which can increase the benefit amount. Apply through Tennessee DHS:
  https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/dhs-programs/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.html
• Meals on Wheels (home‑delivered): For homebound older adults; includes a wellness check by drivers. In Nashville, local nonprofits deliver meals. Start with the AAAD or check the state’s aging nutrition program:
  Home‑delivered meals info (statewide):
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/aging-nutrition-program/home-delivered-meals.html
  Local provider example (FiftyForward):
  https://fiftyforward.org
• Congregate Meals at Senior Centers: Hot meals with social time, usually on weekdays. Find Tennessee meal sites:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/aging-nutrition-program/meal-sites.html
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee: Food distributions, senior food boxes (CSFP) through partners:
  https://www.secondharvestmidtn.org
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly box of staple foods for eligible older adults. Find Tennessee contacts and sites:
  https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/state-contact-list
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce vouchers for use at approved markets:
  https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/state-directory

Tip: For SNAP, list all out‑of‑pocket medical costs (premiums, copays, prescriptions, supplies). These deductions can raise your monthly benefit.

Food programs at a glance

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Transportation in Nashville

• WeGo Public Transit (Nashville’s transit system): Reduced fares for seniors and paratransit (AccessRide) for riders who cannot use fixed routes. Check eligibility and how to apply:
  https://www.wegotransit.com
• AccessRide (paratransit): Door‑to‑door service for eligible riders within the service area. Apply through WeGo’s paratransit program:
  https://www.wegotransit.com
• Senior Ride Nashville: Volunteer rides (door‑through‑door) for adults 60+ in Davidson County for appointments, shopping, and more (membership and small ride fees may apply):
  https://seniorridenashville.org
• MyRide Tennessee: Volunteer transportation program available in many counties (check availability for your county):
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/transportation-assistance/myride-tn.html
• TennCare Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation: If you have TennCare and no other ride to covered medical care:
  https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/transportation.html
• Veteran transportation: Check options through your VA Medical Center or county veterans office:
  https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Transportation options at a glance

Reality check: Volunteer programs may fill up early. Book rides several days ahead. For medical rides, have your appointment details ready (address, time, provider).

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Money help (cash, bills, taxes)

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Families First): Primarily for families with children; can include multigenerational households with a senior caregiver:
  https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/families-first-tanf.html
• Property Tax Relief (state reimbursement) and Property Tax Freeze (local option): See state program pages, then contact the Davidson County Trustee to apply locally:
  Tax Relief: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html
  Tax Freeze: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-freeze.html
• LIHEAP and Weatherization: Energy help and home efficiency upgrades through THDA:
  LIHEAP: https://thda.org/renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
  WAP: https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• Phone and internet discount (Lifeline): Monthly discount for eligible low‑income households:
  https://www.lifelinesupport.org
• Local emergency help:
  • United Way of Greater Nashville/2‑1‑1: https://www.unitedwaygn.org and https://www.211.org/local/tennessee
  • Catholic Charities of Tennessee (services vary by location): https://cctenn.org/causes/emergency-assistance/
  • Salvation Army (Nashville area): https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/
  • NeedLink Nashville (utility/rent help for Davidson County residents, when funds are available): https://www.needlink.org

Tip: Most agencies need a photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and proof of income or hardship (shutoff or eviction notice, medical bills). Bring recent bank statements if assets are counted.

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Caregivers and aging safely at home

• National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) and Lifespan Respite: Training, counseling, short‑term respite, and limited supplies:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/caregiving.html
• Home and Community‑Based Services (OPTIONS/Title III‑B): Personal care, homemaker services, and more if you do not qualify for TennCare:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help with concerns in nursing homes and assisted living:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/long-term-care-ombudsman.html
• Senior centers and wellness: FiftyForward operates several Nashville senior centers with social activities, classes, and services:
  https://fiftyforward.org

Tip: Ask for a falls‑risk review. Simple changes (grab bars, better lighting, removing loose rugs) can prevent injuries and help you stay at home longer.

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Legal help and protection from scams

• Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands (civil legal help for eligible seniors):
  https://www.las.org
• Help4TN (statewide legal information and referral):
  https://www.help4tn.org
• Consumer protection and scam reporting (Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs):
  https://www.tn.gov/commerce/consumer-affairs.html
• Do Not Call Registry:
  https://www.donotcall.gov

Reality check: Government agencies will not demand payment by gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency, and they won’t threaten arrest on a phone call. If you’re unsure, hang up and call the agency using a number from its official website.

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Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ older adults

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (friendly support and resources):
  https://www.sageusa.org/hotline
• SHIP can help you compare Medicare plans with inclusive provider networks:
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html
• Bring a health care proxy/advance directive to appointments. Tennessee information and forms:
  https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/advance-directives.html

Veterans and military families (Nashville area)

• Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (statewide claims assistance and accredited VSOs):
  https://www.tn.gov/veteran
• Operation Stand Down Tennessee (Nashville‑based nonprofit for veterans: benefits navigation, housing, employment, and more):
  https://osdtn.org
• VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound benefits (may increase pension if you have care needs):
  https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes (skilled nursing for eligible veterans):
  https://tsvh.org

Tip: Use an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). TDVS and OSDTN offer free help with applications and appeals.

Seniors with disabilities

• TennCare CHOICES (home‑based supports and nursing facility coverage if eligible):
  https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html
• Accessibility and safety upgrades: Ask your AAAD about OPTIONS/Title III‑B resources; also check THDA’s Emergency Repair Program and Weatherization:
  ERP: https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program
  WAP: https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• Transportation and paratransit: Apply for WeGo AccessRide if you cannot use fixed routes:
  https://www.wegotransit.com

American Indian and Alaska Native elders

• Tennessee has no federally recognized tribes in‑state, but many AI/AN elders live in Nashville.
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area) information, including Purchased/Referred Care via your Tribe:
  https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/
• Native American Indian Association of Tennessee (cultural and community services; referrals):
  https://naiatn.org
• SHIP, TennCare, SNAP, and other benefits are available to eligible AI/AN elders. Some programs treat certain Tribal income/resources differently—ask SHIP or legal aid to review your situation.

Rural seniors (nearby Middle Tennessee counties)

• USDA Section 504 Home Repair grants/loans (key resource for rural home safety fixes):
  https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn
• MyRide Tennessee volunteer transportation (check county availability):
  https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/transportation-assistance/myride-tn.html
• Telehealth can reduce travel; ask your providers and Medicare plan about covered virtual visits.
• Internet discounts: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended; Lifeline still offers phone/internet discounts:
  https://www.lifelinesupport.org

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Nashville key contacts at a glance

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Applying: documents and tips

Bring or gather:

• Photo ID and proof of Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, or official letter).
• Social Security number (or a document explaining why you don’t have one).
• Income and assets: recent bank statements, pension/SSA award letters, pay stubs if any.
• Medical costs: insurance statements, receipts, pharmacy printouts (important for SNAP deductions).
• Housing/utility: lease, rent receipt, eviction or shut‑off notices, mortgage, property tax bill.

Tips to avoid delays:

• Keep copies of every form, letter, and receipt.
• Use a single point of contact (AAAD, SHIP, or a caseworker) to coordinate multiple applications.
• Ask about appeal rights and deadlines if you’re denied.
• Beware of fees: Legitimate state services like SHIP and AAAD are free.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: I’m overwhelmed. Where should I start in Nashville?
A: Call your Area Agency on Aging & Disability for the Greater Nashville region via the state directory. They can screen you for multiple programs and help with applications:
https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html

Q: Can I get help at home without moving to a nursing facility?
A: Yes. Ask about TennCare CHOICES (if you meet medical and financial rules) and non‑Medicaid OPTIONS/Title III services through the AAAD:
CHOICES: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html
OPTIONS/Title III‑B: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html

Q: I can’t afford my Medicare premiums. What can help?
A: Tennessee’s Medicare Savings Programs may pay your Part B premium and reduce other costs if you qualify:
https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/medicare-savings-programs.html
SHIP can check your eligibility: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html

Q: Are there programs to lower my energy bills in Nashville?
A: Yes. LIHEAP provides help with heating and cooling bills, and Weatherization can cut energy use with free home upgrades. Start at THDA:
LIHEAP: https://thda.org/renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
Weatherization: https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap

Q: How can I get home repairs or a wheelchair ramp?
A: THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly focuses on safety‑critical fixes; AAAD programs may fund small modifications; USDA 504 helps in rural areas around Nashville:
ERP: https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program
USDA 504: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn

Q: Is there help with property taxes in Davidson County?
A: Tennessee’s Property Tax Relief may reimburse part of your property tax. Some places also offer a Property Tax Freeze. See the Comptroller’s pages and contact the Davidson County Trustee to apply locally:
Tax Relief: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html
Tax Freeze: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-freeze.html

Q: Besides SNAP, what food programs exist in Nashville?
A: Meals on Wheels, congregate meals at senior centers, CSFP senior food boxes via Second Harvest partners, and seasonal Senior Farmers’ Market vouchers. See:
Meals and congregate sites: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/aging-nutrition-program
Second Harvest: https://www.secondharvestmidtn.org
SFMNP: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/state-directory

Q: Who can help me pick the right Medicare plan?
A: SHIP counselors provide free, unbiased help across Tennessee:
https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html

Q: Is Affordable Connectivity (internet discount) still available?
A: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended due to lack of funding. The Lifeline program still offers a monthly discount on phone/internet for eligible households:
https://www.lifelinesupport.org

Q: I’m a veteran in Nashville—where can I get local help?
A: Contact the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services for accredited claims help and Operation Stand Down Tennessee for local veteran services:
TDVS: https://www.tn.gov/veteran
OSDTN: https://osdtn.org

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Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or organization before applying. Links are provided for convenience and were current at the time of publication.

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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.