Grants for Seniors in North Dakota

Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Rachel

Key Senior Statistics in North Dakota (60 and over)
Senior Population: 177,613 (22.8%) Senior Population: 177,613 (22.8%)
Male: 47.8% Male: 47.8%
Female: 52.2% Female: 52.2%
Median Age: 70 Median Age: 70
Disability: 27% Disability: 27%
With Social Security Income: 74% With Social Security Income: 74%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 6% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 6%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 10% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 10%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2022. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics in North Dakota for more data and information.

Help for Seniors in North Dakota – 27 Assistance Programs

Most of the statistics that have been done in recent years indicate that North Dakota is one of the best states to settle and live in considering its lively social life and increasing happiness rates. Also known as the Peace Garden State, North Dakota is one of the dream states for the elderly. The cost of living in this state is lower than the national average but the winter season can be very cold regarding its border to Canada. Seniors may need assistance to afford their expenses. Thereby, the federal government, the State of North Dakota, and the local social organizations present a good number of programs and benefits for senior residents.


State Resources for Seniors

North Dakota’s Human Services Department administers several programs to support seniors struggling with their expenses. The Department collaborates with the North Dakota Division of Aging and Elder Services to help seniors thrive in their own homes and communities. They also work towards protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of older adults in long-term care facilities. The Department offers Assisted Living Services through Facilities that work to fulfill the needs of the older adults and help them live independent lives. North Dakota Human Services Department and Health Department are both licensed entity offering assisted living services to seniors. Find the list of the North Dakota Assisted Living Facilities here. Services and programs administered by the Human Services Department include:

Family Caregiver Support Program: This is a federally-funded program under the Older Americans Act and is designed to provide support to caregivers of older adults. The goal of this program is to ensure a beautiful caregiving experience. Through the program, vacationers will have access to assistance from their givers in assessing their needs and obtaining resources to support older adults.

Lifespan Respite Care Grant Service: Typically meant to offer funding to support respite services of the elderly by offering funding and resources to caregivers. The elderly can need respite services when the caregiver falls sick, has medical appointments, is hospitalized or dead has a loved one suffering from an illness, or attends a funeral.

Eligibility Requirements for Emergency Respite Care

  • Must meet the definition of a caregiver
  • Must demonstrate the need for respite care and inability to access public funding
  • Must be living with the elderly under their care, or at least making frequent on-site visits to ensure the older adult is healthy and safety is maintained.

Apply for respite care grant service here.

Home And Community-Based Care Services: There are several programs providing home and community-based services. Each of the programs meets the different needs of elderly persons.

Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled (SPED) Program: The purpose of SPED is to offer services to older adults facing challenges to complete their daily tasks. In other words, the services are designed to support the elderly finding it difficult to live independently in their homes. Learn more about the program at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/services/adultsaging/homecare1.html.

Expanded Service Payments for The Elderly (EX-SPED) Program: EX-PED funds in-home care services for seniors who would be receiving care in a licensed basic care facility. Find more information at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/services/adultsaging/homecare2.html.

Medicaid Waiver for Home and Community-Based Services: Coming from the federal government, this program allows the State of North Dakota to use the Medicaid funds to support eligible older adults to remain in their homes and communities, instead of staying in a nursing home. More information is available at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/adults-and-aging/homecare.

Older Americans Act Services: This program is geared towards enabling the elderly to live independently in their homes and communities. The program provides health, home-delivered meal-, and transportation services. The program may also offer any other support service the older adults may need to maintain their independence at home. Find more at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/adults-and-aging/services.

Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): PACE is designed to support seniors aged 55+. The program offers health care and in-home support services to maintain the seniors’ health and independence for a long time. Find more at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/DHS%20Legacy/fact-sheet-pace.pdf.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: This program is comprised of members (the ombudsmen) who act as advocates for the elderly living in assisted living facilities or nursing homes. The ombudsmen listen to the complaints and work on the appropriate resolutions to ensure the satisfaction of seniors living in those institutions. They also provide the seniors with the necessary information and resources. The ombudsman basically works to ensure the elderly receive quality care services and that their rights are safeguarded. Read more about the program at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/adults-and-aging/human-services/adults-and-aging/long-term-care-ombudsman-program.

Financial Assistance

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) prioritizes poor older adults when offering cash support to the low-income group in North Dakota. The goal is to reduce independence and help them transition from public assistance to achieving self-sufficiency. Seniors can apply for TANF at https://www.nd.gov/dhs/info/pubs/application.html. Or reach out to their local Human Service Zone Office to apply for financial support.

North Dakota Emergency Solutions Grant was designed and has been subsidized by the federal authorities for families in financial need. Particularly low-income seniors who are about to lose their homes or need monetary support to afford their rent are eligible for this grant. The total amount of the cash assistance is determined by examining the current financial situation of the applicants’. Read more information at https://www.communityservices.nd.gov/communitydevelopment/Programs/EmergencySolutionsGrantsESG/ or contact 701 328 5300.

The Salvation Army of North Dakota is very efficient in the region since it presents a good deal of services for low and middle-income individuals. Senior citizens who are looking for help with their utilities, rent, clothing, transportation, home repair, health struggles, and more are urged to make a connection with this organization in their county. Apart from these benefits, it offers cash assistance for eligible individuals by going through their economic condition. The link to their official website is as follows https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/northern/western-north-dakota-service-extension/ or call the Service Representative at 701 204 1616. More nonprofit groups are springing up around the country. These are a few of the most reliable 10 Organizations that Help the Seniors.

Housing and Rent Assistance

North Dakota Housing Choice Voucher Program-Section 8 is a rent assistance program that was formed and has been sponsored by the federal government for low or middle-income families. Seniors who are in economic hardship and looking for rental support are qualified for this program. Eligible seniors will be deciding on the place that they want to live and the place should be compatible with the rules of the program. Once this is settled, 70 percent of the rent will be covered by this benefit. The length of this benefit can change depending on the applicant’s financial situation. For further information, please go to https://www.hud.gov/states/north_dakota/renting or dial the toll-free 800 955 2232.

North Dakota National Housing Trust Fund is a special federal government program that reserves additional grants for extremely low-income residents. The amount of grant can differ each year and the State of North Dakota allocates this monetary aid among citizens. Older people who are in urgent need to pay their rent are encouraged to apply to this fund. Find out more information at https://www.ndhfa.org/index.php/tag/national-housing-trust-fund/ or make a phone call at 800 292 8621.

North Dakota Homeless Grant (NDHG) was formed and has been run by the Division of Community Services to prevent homelessness across the state. People who are facing foreclosure or who are already homeless are qualified for this grant. Homeless seniors or seniors who are at the risk of losing their homes are one of the priority groups for this monetary aid. Although this grant is mainly designed to avoid homelessness, eligible candidates can get extra financial help to afford their utility bills, medical expenses, transportation, laundry, furniture, and so on. Further information can be accessed by clicking on the following link https://www.communityservices.nd.gov/communitydevelopment/Programs/NorthDakotaHomelessGrantNDHG/ or get in touch with 701 328 5300.

North Dakota Public Housing: North Dakota Public Housing provides housing assistance to seniors through subsidized and low-rent apartments, designed to offer safe, decent, and affordable rental assistance to seniors with low income. The Public Housing Program is administered by Public Housing Agencies that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Check the availability of subsidized and low-rent apartments here.

The government also offers free housing counseling services, including rental housing workshops, counseling, home improvement and rehabilitation pre-purchase counseling, financial budget, default resolution counseling, homebuyer education workshops, and more. Contact a HUD-approved Housing Counseling Agency in North Dakota for any services at https://apps.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm?&webListAction=search&searchstate=ND.

Home Repair Grants

In addition to reducing homelessness in North Dakota, there are home repair funds available to keep older citizens’ homes maintained and comfortable.

Habitat for Humanity helps homeless seniors or those in need of support with emergency repairs that could pose health or safety threats to older adults and their loved ones. See more at http://www.rrvhabitat.org/.

North Dakota Weatherization Program assists seniors in need of upgrading their homes to improve their energy efficiency. The program could help seniors with the necessary upgrades to their heating and insulation systems. See more at https://www.communityservices.nd.gov/lowincomeprograms/weatherizationassistance/.

Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants offers grants to senior citizens to help them deal with health and safety threats in their homes.

Healthcare Assistance

North Dakota Medicaid is a very comprehensive service that is offered by the State of North Dakota for senior citizens looking for medical assistance. Individuals who are 65 years of age or older and need health assistance are eligible for the North Dakota Medicaid. This service covers the expenses of hospitals, nursing facilities, clinics, physicians, prescription drugs, dental, podiatry, and more. For more information, please go to the link http://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/medicalserv/medicaid/apply.html or dial the Medicaid Services Division at 701 328 7068.

North Dakota Medicare Assistance For The Elderly: Medicare is designed to provide healthcare support to seniors aged 65+, and there are several options to choose from. It is important to choose a Medicare plan that suits one’s lifestyle and healthcare needs. Seniors with more comprehensive insurance needs should opt for North Dakota’s Medicare Advantage program. Medicare plans are providing additional prescription drug add-ons or supplementary coverages.

Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled (SPED) Program is a state-funded health program and has been managed by the Department of Human Services for seniors in need. The program covers the expenses of the various health centers and services in the name of receivers of this program. These services are Adult Family Foster Care, Case Management, Chore Service, Family Home Care, Personal Care, and Respite Care. To learn more about the details of these benefits, please click the link https://www.hhs.nd.gov/adults-and-aging/services/basic-care-assistance-program-bcap or get in touch with the toll-free number 800 472 2622.

North Dakota Senior Medicare Patrols (SMPs): The purpose of SMPs is to empower and support senior Medicare beneficiaries, their loved ones, and caregivers for undergoing healthcare fraud. SMPs use community outreach, education, and counseling to achieve their mission. Visit https://ndcpd.org/smp/ to learn more.

North Dakota Insurance Department and Medicare Support: North Dakota Insurance Department plays a crucial role in supporting Medicaid applicants and beneficiaries. Through its program, State Health Insurance Counseling (SHIC) program, the Department offers counseling services and helps seniors opt for the right Medicare plan. They also help answer Medicare questions that may arise and guide older adults in achieving their healthcare goals through the Medicare program. The program work with certified counselors who provide support in all Medicare insurance areas, including Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Part D, Original Medicare, and long-term care. SHIC program provides services to the elderly in North Dakota free of charge and ensures their interests are put first in the whole process. More information is available at https://www.insurance.nd.gov/consumers/medicare-assistance.

Senior Health insurance Program (SHIP): SHIP offers free counseling services to seniors in need of clarifications about Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid programs. Each Area Agency has information about SHIP and some provide counselors to offer group presentations about the frequently asked questions. Find your Area Agency on Aging Office at http://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/adultsaging/.

For information on free and discounted dental services for the elderly, see Dental Grants in North Dakota.

Utility Bills Assistance

North Dakota Energy Share is a utility assistance program that was constituted and has been supported by the Dakota Valley Electric Cooperative which is a local electricity company. Low and moderate-income families who cannot pay their utility expenses are qualified for this benefit. Older people are prioritized by this program and they may receive substantial discounts on their bills. Find out more information at https://www.dakotavalley.com/nd-energy-share or make a call at 1 701 252 1821.

North Dakota Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program was created by the federal government and has been led by the ND Department of Human Services to provide energy assistance for people in need. Low-income older residents and persons with disabilities are the primary beneficiaries. The main criteria are the total income and the size of the household. Eligible households receive a monthly discount on their electricity bills depending on their economic condition. To apply, please go to the link https://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/financialhelp/energyassist.html or call the toll-free number 800 755 2716. Many services are available to help elderly people with their utility expenses. More choices might be found at Help with Bills.

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP): The purpose of this program is to provide financial assistance to low-income older persons to help them settle their water and wastewater bills. It is important to note that the program does not offer direct grants to seniors in need of help. The eligible seniors will receive support through organizations participating in the program. Remember, LIHWAP does not charge fee to provide assistance. Visit https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/lihwap for more information.

Food Assistance

The North Dakota Commodity Supplemental Food Program was particularly planned by the United States Department of Agriculture for adult people who are 60 years of age or older. Those seniors who are not able to cook at their homes or cannot afford to purchase nutritious and healthy food according to their diet are encouraged to apply for this food support. It provides a monthly box full of healthy food. This program aims to improve the well-being and health of older citizens. To learn more, please click on the link https://www.nd.gov/dpi/districtsschools/child-nutrition-and-food-distribution/commodity-supplemental-food-program or give a call at 701 328 2260.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP is designed to help older adults with low income to meet their nutritional needs. Seniors who qualify for SNAP benefits receive them on EBT cards which only work at groceries, farmers’ markets, and vendors approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The elderly can either apply for SNAP online or locally by downloading, filling out, and mailing or sending it personally to the nearest Human Service Zone Office.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): This is a federal food program designed to supplement older adults’ diets by offering food and nutrition support free of charge. How does the program work? USDA buys USDA food items and leaves them in the hands of State Distributing Agencies, who then distribute them to the local agencies. The local agencies then distribute the food to the local organizations that serve the elderly persons. Each state receives food, depending on the level of need, with unemployment and poverty levels as the major determining factors. North Dakota receives some funds to help support the storage and distribution of USDA foods. Read more here.

For seniors in need of food assistance, there are various other programs and benefits besides The North Dakota Commodity Supplemental Food Program. Continue reading to uncover a list of Senior Food Programs.

Transportation Assistance

Bis-Man Transit: Located in Bismarck, North Dakota, Bis-Man Transit offers door-to-door transportation services to elderly persons aged 70 and above. Rides are scheduled a day before traveling between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. To schedule a ride, seniors should contact the organization at 223-9001. Find out more at https://carechoice.nd.assistguide.net/AGISModules/ProviderSearch/ProviderDetails.aspx?OrgID=547607.

The North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD): Founded over 40 years ago, NDAD offers transportation services to seniors with mobility issues who cannot make it on the regular fixed-route city buses. Their paratransit service offers doo-to-door transport services and they have vehicles specifically designed for elderly persons who use wheelchairs and other mobility-support devices. Sometimes seniors may have to share rides with other passengers, thus making several stops along the way.

Assistance by Charities and Nonprofits

Many nonprofits and charities provide a range of services to senior citizens throughout North Dakota. These organizations receive some of their funding directly from the state government. They also generate their funding from local sources.

The Legal Services of North Dakota: This is a nonprofit organization offering legal services to elderly persons. The organization does not charge any fee for its services. Read more at http://www.legalassist.org/.

Kenmare Wheels & Meals: A nonprofit organization providing meal and in-home care services to enable seniors to remain independent in their homes and enjoy spending time with families and friends within their communities. The organization’s service areas include Burke, Renville, and Ward Counties in North Central North Dakota. Find out more at http://www.wheelsandmeals.org/.

Minot Commission on Aging (MCA): MCA provides the elderly with services that are geared toward helping them remain in their homes and maintain healthy and productive lives. The organization works through programs and services, including Meals on Wheels, Congregate Meals, and Health Services, among others. Learn more about the nonprofit at https://minotcoa.com/.

Souris Basin Transportation: Offer transportation to the older adults living in Minot and the Counties of Renville, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Ward, Burke, and Bottineau. Seniors living in the cities of Minot, Rugby, and Bottineau can have access to the organization’s local services. Read more at http://www.sourisbasintransit.com/.

Williston Council of Aging: Working with the North Dakota Aging Services, this Department provides services and programs that empower seniors and encourage them to remain as independent as possible in their homes and communities. Find out more at https://www.willistonseniors.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What financial assistance programs are available for seniors in North Dakota? Seniors in North Dakota can access financial assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for utility bill aid, the Senior Citizens Property Tax Credit for property tax relief, and the Prescription Drug Assistance Program to help with medication costs.

2. How can seniors apply for Medicaid in North Dakota? Medicaid applications for seniors in North Dakota can be submitted online via the North Dakota Department of Human Services website, by mail, or in person at county social service offices. Applicants need to provide proof of income, residency, age, and assets.

3. What housing assistance is available for seniors in North Dakota? The North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) provides the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) for rental assistance and offers resources on affordable senior housing options. Additionally, the agency supports home modification programs for accessibility.

4. Can seniors receive help with utility bills in North Dakota? Yes, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to seniors facing difficulties with heating and cooling expenses, ensuring they can maintain a comfortable living environment.

5. How do seniors get help with prescription medications in North Dakota? The North Dakota Prescription Drug Assistance Program offers support to seniors for managing the costs of necessary medications, working alongside Medicare Part D coverage.

6. Are there property tax relief programs for seniors in North Dakota? The Senior Citizens Property Tax Credit offers property tax relief to eligible seniors based on income and residency criteria, helping to reduce the financial burden of property taxes.

7. What in-home care services can seniors access in North Dakota? The Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled (SPED) program and the Expanded SPED program offer various in-home services, including personal care and homemaking, to help seniors maintain independence in their own homes.

8. How can seniors access transportation services in North Dakota? Transportation services for seniors are available through local transit programs and Area Agencies on Aging, providing essential rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and senior centers.

9. What nutritional programs support seniors in North Dakota? The North Dakota Department of Human Services funds the Nutrition Services Program, offering congregate meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals through the Meals on Wheels program, ensuring seniors have access to nutritious food.

10. How can seniors in North Dakota receive legal assistance? Legal Services of North Dakota provides free legal aid to seniors, covering issues such as healthcare, housing, consumer rights, and estate planning, ensuring their legal rights are protected.