Grants for Seniors in New Jersey

Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Rachel

Key Senior Statistics in New Jersey (60 and over)

Senior Population: 2,244,217 (24.2%)

Male: 45.1%

Female: 54.9%

Median Age: 70

Disability: 26%

With Social Security Income: 71%

With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 9%

Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 10%

Data Source:

Data is taken from American Community Survey 2022. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics in New Jersey for more data and information.

Help for Seniors in New Jersey – 30 Assistance Programs

New Jersey has been chosen the fourth-best state to live in by the WalletHub in 2019 considering its educational opportunities, better living conditions, and secure neighborhoods. It holds the lowest crime rate in the Mid-Atlantic region. Although it was a very attention-grabbing state in the past couple of years by the elderly, it may be hard to live in this state economically. Since it gets people’s attention, the population density is high and sometimes living conditions can be difficult to afford considering the high demand and low supply. There is a whole range of programs and services that are offered by the State of New Jersey, the federal government, and local social organizations for seniors.

State Resources for Seniors

New Jersey’s State Unit on Aging, itself a part of the Department of Human Services, administers several programs for seniors through the Division of Aging Services (DoAS). DoAS is in charge or running programs funded by the state and federal governments to help the elderly residents live independently for as long as possible. The Division of Aging Services provides additional funding to supplement programs provided by the federal government, expanding the reach and coverage to accommodate as many seniors as possible. Links to other assistance programs for the elderly are provided, along with valuable information on special programs offered for seniors. These can all be accessed at https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/home/.

Financial Assistance

The New Jersey Emergency Financial Assistance Program was created by the Department of Human Services to provide various services including financial assistance for people in need. The monetary aid can be used only for housing needs such as clothing, groceries, and furniture, utility payments, and rental needs. The amount of help is determined by the economic conditions of the applicant and it can last for up to 12 months. Sometimes this duration can be longer under certain circumstances. To see more information, please click here https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dfd/programs/emergency/.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is available for seniors over the age of 65. This program is managed by the Social Security Administration and provides financial aid to eligible seniors who have little or no income. Monthly payments are issued to beneficiaries to help them meet their basic needs of food, clothing and shelter. SSI eligibility is usually determined by the income of the applicant and the total value of the assets possessed. For SSI, seniors need to have assets with less than $2,000 total value. In computing the value of assets, essential things like the residential home and a vehicle for getting around are excluded. This ensures that more elders are carried along by the program. Seniors can find full details on SSI at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/.

Housing and Rent Assistance

New Jersey Adult Family Care is a local Medicaid Waiver Program that is offered to help seniors with their housing problems. Older citizens who are having housing issues or cannot live independently any longer because of health conditions are eligible for this program. This benefit offers private individual living units which have 24-hour personalized care. Some of the services in these houses are getting help with toileting, bathing, dressing, housekeeping, laundry, preparing meals, and so on. For more information, please go to http://scucs.org/adult-family-care-program-faqs/ or make a phone call at 856 456 1121.

New Jersey Assisted Living Residences (ALR) has been managed by the New Jersey Department of Health for the elderly. These residences are designed particularly for the needs of seniors. It offers rooms, flat, or apartment-style housing which includes necessary furniture and decorations. Seniors who need a temporary place to live are encouraged to apply for these residences. There is a 24-hour service and health care. To learn more, please follow the link https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/resources/nursing/.

The New Jersey Division of Aging Services was created and has been run by the Department of Human Services for senior citizens who are having difficulties in terms of receiving services. This state division offers a great deal of housing options for low and moderate-income older residents who need housing support. These housing programs are Accessory Departments, Adult Retirement Communities, Affordable/Subsidized Housing, Boarding Homes, Comprehensive Personal Care Homes, Congregate Apartment Housing, Continuing-Care Retirement Communities, Elder Cottage Housing Opportunities (Echo Units), Home Sharing, Mobile Home Parks, Multi- https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/provider/nursing-facilities/ Level Facilities, Nursing Homes, Shared Living Residences, and last Subsidized Apartment For the Elderly. All these programs were established to provide housing services for senior citizens. Examine each one of these programs through https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/assistance/county-offices/ or dial the toll-free telephone number 877 222 3737.

Home Repair Grants

The Section 504 Home Repair Program offers assistance to seniors who need to carry out repairs on their homes. This program provides loans and grants to eligible seniors to help them fix structural issues or get rid of conditions that threaten their health and safety in the home. The money provided can also be used to make modifications to enhance accessibility to the home. The repairs covered include plumbing, electrical, carpentry work, repair of heating systems, etc. Seniors who are not yet up to the age of 62 may qualify for loans of up to $40,000 for their home rehabilitation needs. These loans are provided at a 1% interest rate and are repayable over a period of 20 years. For elderly residents above the age of 62, grants may be awarded. The grants have a maximum lifetime value of $10,000 and do not need to be repaid. However, seniors who receive grants must continue to live in the home for at least 3 years as selling the home sooner than that would mandate them to repay the full grant amount. Further details on this program can be found at https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/nj.

Habitat for Humanity is an organization made up of a network of volunteers that provide housing solutions to low-income seniors. The organization offers low-cost housing options for the elderly by building homes for them without a profit motive. Repairs are also available for seniors who live in their own homes but cannot afford the cost of home repairs. Repair services are carried out by volunteers using materials donated to the Habitat storehouse. These repairs often come at no cost to the beneficiaries. Details on the activities of Habitat for Humanity can be found at https://www.habitatscnj.org/.

Healthcare Assistance

The Alzheimer’s Adult Day Services Program was planned to help individuals who have Alzheimer’s disease or connected dementia. This program has been funded by the state authorities to help eligible applicants with their daycare needs. Eligible candidates receive adult daycare five days a week and some of them may be qualified for financial assistance based on their economic status. Find out more information at https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/a-k/aads/ or contact 877 222 3737.

New Jersey Adult Day Care is designed to offer health support for low and moderate-income citizens by the State of New Jersey. There are three types of services on this program which are Adult Day Health Services, Alzheimer’s Adult Day Services, and Social Adult Day Care. These programs provide caregivers for a long or short term based on the applicants’ case. For further information, please follow the link https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/a-k/aads/.

HealthEASE was formed by the local people to help older citizens with their health problems. The main aim of this program is to make sure that every senior citizen can live independently at their own homes by receiving health and housing support. Especially seniors who are suffering from a chronic disease or having a physical health issue are urged to apply to this organization. HealthEASE presents other programs which are A Matter of Balance, Project Healthy Bones, and Take Control of Your Health. You can examine these programs in detail by following the link https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/a-k/healthease/ or call 609 943 3498.

Cherry Hill Free Clinic is a nonprofit medical organization that provides free health care services for seniors who reside in New Jersey. The clinic offers a wide range of services which include physical exams, preventative care, specialty care, primary care, etc. All services provided by the clinic are completely free, including services rendered by partner organizations. Cherry Hill supports senior welfare by offering these services at absolutely no cost as there is no billing system in place for services rendered. This arrangement greatly helps elderly residents who are uninsured. Visit https://www.cherryhillfreeclinic.org/care-services/ for details of the care services available.

Seniors who have no form of health insurance can visit Coastal Volunteers in Medicine. This is a charity organization that provides comprehensive healthcare and testing for uninsured New Jersey residents. The organization is staffed by volunteers and offers free treatment for eligible seniors. While treatment is free, patients who have some form of income are encouraged to make donations where possible. Eligibility for treatment by Coastal Volunteers in Medicine is determined by income level, with services provided to seniors whose incomes fall below 300% of the federal poverty level. To get services, visit https://coastalvim.org/.

Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative is another medical organization offers free healthcare services in New Jersey. Treatment is provided to seniors with several medical conditions, helping them restore good health and make life better. Full physical examinations are carried out on seniors so that the best treatment can be given to them to resolve all their health challenges. Seniors interested in the services of Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative can find more information at https://www.bvmi.org/.

Help with Dental Care

Virtua Dental Center is a clinic located in the Camden area of New Jersey that offers affordable dental care. Seniors can come to the clinic to get professional dental treatment at low prices meant to be affordable for all. The services available at the clinic include dentures, implants, tooth extractions, fillings, crowns, sealants, bridges, etc. Emergency dental care and oral cancer screenings are also available at Virtua Dental Center. The clinic is open from 8am to 4:30pm on Mondays to Fridays. For information on how to get help from Virtua Dental Center, visit https://www.virtua.org/locations/dental-center.

Zufall Health Center is another clinic that provides low-cost dental care to seniors in New Jersey. Preventive, prosthetic and restorative dental services are offered at the clinic, including things like dental exams, x-rays, fillings, crowns, dentures, etc. Treatment is provide to seniors regardless of their insurance status. For seniors without health insurance, treatment is provided and they are charged on a sliding fee scale, according to their ability to pay. A mobile dental clinic is also available for treatment. This is a special van fitted with equipment to help dentists deliver services on the go. Seniors can receive treatment in the mobile clinic when the van visits their area. Further details on these programs can be found at https://www.zufallhealth.org/.

New Jersey Dental Centers offers top-quality dental care for seniors, whether or not they are insured. Dentists use state-of-the-art technologies to deliver the best possible dental remedies. Consideration is given to those who are unable to pay for the cost of treatment is in many cases, financing options are provided by the organization. To get more details, visit https://www.njdentalcenters.com/.

The Dental Lifeline Network’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program is available to seniors in New Jersey. This program provides comprehensive dental treatment for New Jersey seniors by connecting them with volunteer dental professionals. Services are available to seniors who are 65 or older, and free treatment is provided for DDS recipients. This covers laboratory testing, x-rays, cleanings, fillings, etc. Visit https://dentallifeline.org/new-jersey/ for more information on DDS.

For more information on how seniors can get dental assistance in New Jersey, read Dental Grants in New Jersey.

Utility Bills Assistance

New Jersey offers several programs to help seniors pay for current and outstanding utility bills.

The Universal Service Fund provides monthly credits to seniors for the payment of electric and gas bills. The program is open to seniors who at least $60 on their past utility bills. Through the Fresh Start component of the programs, eligible applicants get debt forgiveness, cancelling the outstanding utility bills. Afterwards, money is paid every month to the utility company on their behalf. Seniors can apply for the Universal Service Fund online at https://njdca-housing.dynamics365portals.us/en-US/dcaid-services/.

The Home Energy Assistance program (HEAP) is an initiative put in place to help residents pay for their heating expenses, especially during the cold winter months. Seniors whose rent and utility bills are paid together can also apply for HEAP assistance. In certain cases, the program also helps pay for the cooling costs, especially when it is medically necessary. Applications for HEAP are submitted along with the Universal Service Fund program.

NJ SHARES is another way that seniors can get assistance with their utility bills. NJ SHARES is a nonprofit organization that offers help to pay for telephone, internet, water and energy bills. Eligibility for assistance is usually determined by income. For more information, visit http://www.njshares.org/.

Seniors can get support paying for internet expenses through the Affordable Connectivity Program. This program provides discounts of up to $30 per month for internet services. One-time discounts of $100 are also available to pay for devices like laptops and tablets. To submit an application, visit https://affordableconnectivity.gov/.

Seniors who are ineligible for the Universal Service Fund may apply for the Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric (PAGE) Program. PAGE provides financial aid to seniors with arrears of more than $100 on their utilities. The program considers the value of liquid assets to decide on eligibility of applicants. Seniors applying for PAGE should not have more than $15,000 in liquid assets. Online applications can be submitted at http://www.njpoweron.org/.

New Jersey Lifeline Utility Assistance is a special service particularly to assist seniors who are struggling to pay their utilities. There are three utility bill programs related to this service. The Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled Program offers a $225 yearly monetary aid for the ones who already receive Supplemental Security Income. Some of the participants may receive rent assistance based on their economic condition. Lifeline Utility Assistance Program offers different amounts of discount depending on the applicant’s financial situation. This program was created by the federal government and has been run by the Division of Aging Services Home. Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled is another service that provides essential equipment for the ones who are having difficulties hearing someone. Applicants must be 65 years of age or older and the resident of New Jersey to be qualified for this program. The link to their official website is as follows https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/l-p/lifeline-utility/ or call the toll-free hotline number at 800 792 9745. For seniors with low and moderate incomes, there are programs and services in addition to New Jersey Lifeline Utility Assistance that can help seniors pay their bills.

Other programs available for utility assistance in New Jersey can be found listed at https://www.state.nj.us/bpu/assistance/programs/.

Food Assistance

New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is also known as the Food Stamp Program. Low and moderate-income seniors are prioritized by this program. Seniors who cannot cook for themselves or afford nutritious food are encouraged to apply for this food assistance. Eligible candidates will be receiving an EBT Card that can be used in most grocery stores throughout the state. The program loads monthly money based on the total income and the size of the household. The location of the home also is determinant. For more information, please go to https://www.benefitscheckup.org/fact-sheets/factsheet_nutrition_nj_snap_program/#/ or contact the State Hotline at 800 675 9512. Aside than New Jersey SNAP, more Food Programs for Seniors are formed around the country to satisfy the nutritional needs of the low-income senior residents.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance to low-income seniors in New Jersey. This program pays monthly benefits which can be used to purchases food items needed by the seniors. Recipients of SNAP are given an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card with which they can access their benefits. This can then be used to buy food at grocery stories or online shops. Seniors receive varying SNAP benefits, depending on their needs and income levels. SNAP provides the major part of the feeding budget of some eligible seniors. Eligibility is determined by the income level of seniors. For more information on the operation of SNAP in New Jersey, visit https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/.

Seniors over the age of 60 can apply for support from the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). This program provides highly nutritious food items to supplement the diets of elderly people and promote healthy living. The food items are delivered in food boxes containing things like milk, cheese, fruits, cereal, rice, peanut butter, etc. These boxes come prepacked in proportions designed provide optimum nutrition. CSFP does not aim to fulfill the monthly feeding needs of seniors, but rather to support the nutrition needs. Details can be found at https://www.nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/senior-nutrition/commodity-supplementa/.

Various counties also offer additional programs to support the nutrition of seniors. These come in the form of Congregate meals and Home Delivered meals. Congregate meals are served in a group setting, allowing seniors come together and interact in the process. In addition to this, the meals served are hot and nutritious. A dietician is usually employed to draw up meal plans and ensure optimum nourishment. Home Delivered meals serve seniors who are home bound and unable to access group meal sites. Food arrangement is provided similarly. Information on the programs in each county can be found on the county websites.

Many of these assistance programs use the federal poverty level to determine applicants’ financial eligibility. To determine your poverty level, use the Federal Poverty Level Calculator.

Transportation Assistance

New Jersey Transit provides transportation services through bus and rail routes across the state. Seniors over the age of 62 can benefit from the NJ Transit Reduced Fair Program. This program offers discounted transit fares for eligible seniors and may provide free transportation for a personal care assistant. Those over the age of 65 only need to show their Reduced Fare ID, while seniors aged 62-64 need to present a valid identification that indicates their date of birth. Special buses are also available to meet the transportation demands of seniors with reduced mobility, allowing accessibility for wheelchair users.

Non-emergency medical transportation services are available for seniors who receive Medicaid assistance. This arrangement is put in place to help them get to medical appointments and senior centers.

The state maintains a comprehensive repository of transport assistance providers and options at https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dds/hottopics/transportation/.

Charities and Organizations

The Catholic Charities in New Jersey is an nonprofit organization that offers assistance to seniors experiencing hardship. Catholic Charities has several initiative that help low-income residents, with some of them set up specifically for the older residents. Food pantries meet the food demand of low-income seniors, while those who are homebound get food delivered to them through the Meals on Wheels initiative. Financial aid is provided to seniors who need funding for urgent needs like rent and utility bills. Seniors may also receive items of clothing from Catholic Charities. Program details can be found at https://www.ccpaterson.org/.

Salvation Army is another charity that concerns itself with the welfare of the elderly. Through a variety of programs, the charity reaches out to low-income seniors, helping them meet various needs that arise. Shelter is available for seniors who have lost their homes, helping them stay in a safe place while alternate housing arrangements are made. Soup kitchens which provide hot nutritious meals are run by the Salvation Army to get rid of hunger among seniors. Financial assistance may also be provided to those in need of funds for electric bills and rent payment. For more information, visit https://easternusa.salvationarmy.org/new-jersey/.

Assistance for Senior Veterans

Free transportation is available to New Jersey veterans through programs sponsored by the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). The free transportation is provided to help veterans get to VA medical centers, pharmacies, clinics, and other community services in the state. Housing assistance is also provided for veterans at risk of homelessness or utility shutoff. Funds are made available to cover expenses like rent, utility bills, utility reconnection fees, security deposits, etc. These payments are made directly to vendor or landlord to ensure continued access to housing and utility services. Information on these programs is available at https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/benefits-resources/.

New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars (NJVFW) runs an assistance program for veterans who have financial needs. This program is offered alongside the Post Relief fund and provides resources for veterans to meet urgent needs like home repairs, vehicle repairs, food purchases, security deposits for housing, etc. The amount provided may be up to $599 per year. For details, visit https://vfwnj.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=53022.

The Solid Start program is offered as an all-inclusive program by the Department of Veteran Affairs. Solid Start makes several resources available to senior veterans, depending on their specific needs. More details on the VA Solid State program can be found at https://www.benefits.va.gov/transition/solid-start.asp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What financial assistance programs are available for seniors in New Jersey? Seniors in New Jersey can access the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) program for prescription drug cost assistance, the Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement) Program for property tax relief, and the Universal Service Fund (USF) to help with utility bills.

2. How can seniors apply for Medicaid in New Jersey? Seniors can apply for Medicaid in New Jersey online through the NJ FamilyCare website, by mail, or in person at County Welfare Agencies (CWA). Essential documents include proof of age, income, New Jersey residency, and assets.

3. What housing assistance is available for seniors in New Jersey? The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) offers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program for rental assistance and provides information on affordable senior housing developments across the state.

4. Can seniors receive help with utility bills in New Jersey? Yes, programs like the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Universal Service Fund (USF) offer financial assistance to seniors struggling with their heating and utility expenses.

5. How do seniors get help with prescription medications in New Jersey? The Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) program helps eligible seniors cover the costs of prescription medications, working alongside Medicare Part D.

6. Are there property tax relief programs for seniors in New Jersey? The Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement) Program provides reimbursement to eligible seniors for property tax increases on their homes. Additionally, the Homestead Benefit Program offers property tax relief to homeowners 65 and older.

7. What in-home care services can seniors access in New Jersey? New Jersey’s Division of Aging Services administers the Jersey Assistance for Community Caregiving (JACC) program and the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), offering a range of in-home care services to support seniors living independently.

8. How can seniors access transportation services in New Jersey? NJ TRANSIT offers reduced fares for seniors on buses, trains, and light rail services. Additionally, many counties provide specialized transportation services for seniors, including rides to medical appointments and grocery shopping.

9. What nutritional programs support seniors in New Jersey? The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides vouchers for fresh produce at farmers’ markets, and local Area Agencies on Aging offer congregate meal programs and Meals on Wheels for homebound seniors.

10. How can seniors in New Jersey receive legal assistance? Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ) provides free legal aid to low-income seniors on issues including healthcare, housing, consumer rights, and elder abuse, ensuring their rights are protected.