Grants for Seniors in Richmond

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

Last updated: December 19, 2025

Richmond seniors can get real help with healthcare costs, housing and rent, food, utilities, transportation, caregiving, and legal issues. This guide pulls together the most useful programs with direct links to official sources, plus practical tips to make applications easier.

If You Need Emergency Help

• Life-threatening emergency: Call 911.
• Mental health crisis: Dial or text 988 or visit the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org/.
• Veterans in crisis: Dial 988, then press 1, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
• Adult abuse, neglect, or self-neglect: Call Virginia Adult Protective Services at 1-888-832-3858 (24/7). Program info: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/family/aps.cgi
• Eviction or housing crisis: Call the Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline at 1‑833‑NOEVICT (1‑833‑663‑8428) or visit https://www.evictionhelpline.org/
• No heat, electric shutoff, or no food: Call 2‑1‑1 or search https://www.211virginia.org/ for immediate local referrals.
• Poison Control: Call 1‑800‑222‑1222.

Key Takeaways

• Use Virginia’s CommonHelp to apply for SNAP (food), Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, is the main hub for local senior services in Richmond: https://seniorconnections-va.org/
• For rent help, look at Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (vouchers, public housing) and HUD Section 202 senior housing. Expect waitlists: https://www.rrha.com/ and https://resources.hud.gov/
• For home repairs and safety fixes, apply to Virginia’s EHARP, USDA 504 grants/loans, Weatherization, and local nonprofits like project:HOMES and Rebuilding Together Richmond.
• Utility help comes from Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) plus company programs like Dominion Energy’s EnergyShare.
• Meals on Wheels in Central Virginia is run by Feed More; SNAP and the Senior Farmers’ Market program can lower grocery costs.
• Caregivers can seek Virginia’s Respite Voucher (when open) and dementia resources through Dementia Capable Virginia.
• Be ready for paperwork. Keep copies of ID, proof of Virginia residency, Social Security number, income, assets, lease/mortgage, and current bills.

---

Where to Start: Three Fast “Front Doors”

These programs connect you to multiple benefits and referrals.

Tip: If websites are hard to use, call Senior Connections and ask for “options counseling” or benefits help. They can help complete forms and gather documents.

---

Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

• Medicare (age 65+ or disability): Learn benefits and compare plans at Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Free Medicare counseling (VICAP): Unbiased help with plan choices, billing issues, and drug costs. State info: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm. Senior Connections hosts local counseling: https://seniorconnections-va.org/ (ask for VICAP).
• Virginia Medicaid for older adults: Covers medical care, prescriptions, nursing homes, and in-home services for those who qualify. Start with CoverVA: https://www.coverva.org/ and apply via CommonHelp: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• CCC Plus (Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus): For seniors who need long-term services and supports at home or in a facility. Program info: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Free and confidential help if you have concerns about a nursing home or assisted living facility. https://www.elderrightsva.org/
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (Medicaid): Rides to covered medical appointments if you have Medicaid: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/
• Richmond City Health District (public health clinics and services): https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/richmond-city/

Reality check: Medicaid rules are strict and paperwork-heavy. If you’re just over the income limit, ask about “Medically Needy/Spenddown.” If you have Medicare and low income, ask about Medicare Savings Programs to pay Part B premiums.

Healthcare at a glance

---

Income, Cash, and Taxes

• Social Security/SSI/SSDI: Apply or manage benefits at Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/ and SSI info: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
• Auxiliary Grants (assisted living/adult foster care): If you’re older, blind, or disabled and living in eligible facilities, Virginia’s Auxiliary Grant can help with costs: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ag/
• General Relief (local, limited): Short‑term aid may be available in some localities; check availability: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/gr/
• Property Tax Relief (City of Richmond): Real estate tax relief for qualifying older adults and people with disabilities. City details: https://www.rva.gov/finance/real-estate-tax-relief
• Virginia Age Deduction (state income tax): Seniors may qualify for an age-based deduction. Rules and limits: https://www.tax.virginia.gov/age-deduction
• Free tax preparation: AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide (during tax season): https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/

Reality check: Local relief programs have deadlines and documentation requirements. Don’t wait—apply early, and keep copies of everything.

---

Housing, Rent, and Homelessness Prevention

• Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA): Vouchers (Housing Choice/Section 8), public housing, and waitlists. https://www.rrha.com/
• HUD Section 202 Senior Housing: Affordable apartments for older adults. Search HUD properties (filter “Elderly/Disabled”): https://resources.hud.gov/
• Housing Choice Voucher (statewide info): https://www.virginiahousing.com/partners/housing-choice-vouchers and find local PHA contacts via HUD: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
• HUD‑Approved Housing Counseling: Help with renting, avoiding eviction/foreclosure, and reverse mortgage counseling. Virginia list: https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/homeownership/seniors
• Homeless services and eviction prevention: Virginia DHCD homeless programs: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/homelessness. For local entry points, call 2‑1‑1 Virginia or connect with the Richmond region’s coordinated entry via Homeward (regional lead): https://homewardva.org/

Reality check: Expect waitlists for vouchers and senior apartments. Apply to multiple lists and keep your contact info updated so you don’t miss your turn.

Housing and home repair programs (quick view)

---

Home Repair, Weatherization, and Accessibility

• Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program (EHARP): Health and safety repairs (ramps, plumbing, electrical, roofing). State info: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/eharp
• USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): Grants up to $10,000forverylow‑incomehomeownersage62+;low‑interestloansupto$40,000 may be available. VA page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/va
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy-saving work like insulation and HVAC safety checks. State page: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• project:HOMES (Richmond): Critical repairs, accessibility, energy conservation, and weatherization in Central Virginia: https://www.projecthomes.org/
• Rebuilding Together Richmond: Free critical home repairs for eligible homeowners: https://rebuildingtogetherrichmond.org/
• Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity: Critical home repair and accessibility (programs vary): https://www.richmondhabitat.org/

Reality check: Many repair programs have long waitlists and prioritize health/safety hazards. If you have no heat, unsafe wiring, or a fall risk, say so clearly on your application and ask your doctor or AAA to provide a note.

---

Utility and Energy Bill Help

• Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Fuel Assistance (heating), Crisis Assistance (no heat/cutoff), and Cooling Assistance (summer electricity/AC). Program windows and details: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
• Dominion Energy EnergyShare: Bill-pay assistance and weatherization, year-round as funds allow: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare
• Appalachian Power assistance: If you live in the service area (parts of Greater Richmond may not), help is through Dollar Energy Fund: https://www.dollarenergy.org/need-help/virginia/ and utility info: https://www.appalachianpower.com/
• Columbia Gas of Virginia: Bill assistance, budget plans, and program info: https://www.columbiagasva.com/billing-payments/assistance-programs
• City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities: Water, wastewater, gas, and electric (municipal) customer resources, payment options, and assistance links: https://www.rva.gov/public-utilities

Tip: Ask your utility about budget billing, medical necessity protections, and any hardship funds. If you get a cutoff notice, call the utility the same day and then apply for Crisis Assistance.

Energy and utilities quick comparison

---

Food and Nutrition

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Monthly EBT benefits for groceries. Medical costs can increase deductions for seniors. Learn/apply: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi or https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (Farm Market Fresh): Checks for fresh produce from participating markets: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/sfmnp.htm
• Meals on Wheels (Central Virginia): Feed More’s Meals on Wheels serves Richmond-area seniors with home-delivered meals; referrals often come through Senior Connections: https://feedmore.org/how-we-help/meals-on-wheels/
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly USDA “Senior Food Box” for eligible adults 60+. USDA overview: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/commodity-supplemental-food-program. Local provider (Feed More): https://feedmore.org/

Reality check: Programs can have waiting lists or limited delivery areas. If you’re on a waitlist, ask about temporary pantry deliveries and congregate meals at senior centers.

Food programs at a glance

---

Transportation

• GRTC Transit (Richmond metro): Bus routes, reduced fares for seniors, and CARE specialized paratransit service for eligible riders. GRTC info: https://ridegrtc.com/. CARE service details: https://ridegrtc.com/services/specialized-transportation/care/
• Elderly & Disabled Transportation (through local partners/AAAs): Overview and AAA map: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/drivingtransport.htm and https://www.vda.virginia.gov/aaamap.htm
• Medicaid NEMT: If you have Medicaid, schedule rides to covered appointments: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/
• State transit directory (find local services): https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/locate-transit

Tip: Ask about reduced fare ID cards, travel training, and volunteer driver programs through Senior Connections.

---

Caregivers and Dementia Support

• Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher Program: Reimburses family caregivers for short breaks (often up to $400 when available). Check status and apply when open: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/respiteservices.htm
• Dementia Capable Virginia: Tools for families and providers: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/dementiacapableva.htm
• Alzheimer’s Association: Support groups and 24/7 Helpline (1‑800‑272‑3900): https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline
• Senior Connections Caregiver Support: Local education, respite options, and counseling: https://seniorconnections-va.org/ (see Caregiver Support)

Reality check: Respite funds are limited and open in cycles. Get on interest lists, and ask about adult day health, in‑home aides via Medicaid (CCC Plus), and short-term respite through local nonprofits.

---

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Virginia Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): Free comprehensive care for eligible seniors with disabilities or fragile health; expect a waitlist. https://dentallifeline.org/virginia/
• VCU School of Dentistry: Reduced‑fee student clinics in Richmond. https://dentistry.vcu.edu/patients/
• Virginia Dental Association Foundation – Mission of Mercy (MOM): Free dental clinic events statewide. Schedule: https://www.vdaf.org/
• Lions Clubs of Virginia: Vision/hearing assistance varies by club. Find clubs: https://www.lionsofva.org/
• Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (equipment distribution and relay services): Equipment: https://www.vddhh.org/tedp/ and Relay: https://www.vddhh.org/relay-services/

Tip: Also check the Richmond City Health District and free clinics like CrossOver Healthcare Ministry (https://www.crossoverministry.org/) and Daily Planet Health Services (https://www.dailyplanetva.org/) for low‑cost dental or vision days.

---

Internet and Phone Discounts

• Lifeline (FCC): Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible low‑income households. How to qualify and apply: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
• Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended new funding in 2024. Ask your internet provider about their low‑income plans.

---

Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Fraud

• Central Virginia Legal Aid Society (Richmond): Free civil legal help for eligible clients. https://cvlas.org/
• Statewide legal aid finder: https://www.valegalaid.org/
• Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Help stop Medicare fraud and billing errors. https://www.virginiasmp.org/
• Virginia Attorney General – Consumer Protection: Report scams and get help. https://www.oag.state.va.us/consumer-protection

Warning: Government programs do not charge application fees. Avoid “grant helpers” who ask for money.

---

Inclusive Resources

Veterans and Military Families

• VA Health Care and Pensions; Aid & Attendance (extra help for in‑home care or assisted living): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Find VA medical centers and clinics (search “Richmond”): https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• VA housing assistance and home adaptations: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/

Tip: Bring your DD‑214 and income details when applying for pensions or Aid & Attendance.

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (1‑877‑360‑LGBT): https://www.sageusa.org/
• Equality Virginia (statewide resources and referrals): https://equalityvirginia.org/
• Ask Senior Connections for LGBTQ+‑affirming providers; VICAP can help compare inclusive Medicare Advantage plans.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Virginia DARS (aging and rehabilitative services): https://www.dars.virginia.gov/
• Centers for Independent Living (state directory): https://www.vasilc.org/cils/
• Richmond-area CIL (Resources for Independent Living): https://www.ril-va.org/
• Medicaid waivers and CCC Plus for in‑home support: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/

Tribal and Native Elders

• Title VI Native American Aging Programs: https://acl.gov/programs/american-indian-alaska-native-and-native-hawaiian-programs/title-vi-grants
• Indian Health Service: https://www.ihs.gov/
• Virginia tribal information (contacts via Commonwealth): https://www.virginia.gov/agencies/secretary-of-the-commonwealth/ (search “Virginia Indian”)

Rural Seniors (in Greater Richmond counties)

• Some Richmond-area seniors live in rural parts of Goochland, Powhatan, New Kent, and Charles City. Senior Connections serves the region; call for transportation and meal options: https://seniorconnections-va.org/
• State transit directory for rural services: https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/locate-transit
• USDA Rural Development (housing repair/affordable rentals): https://www.rd.usda.gov/va

Reality check: Rural programs may have fewer ride options and longer waitlists. Lean on your AAA, churches, and 2‑1‑1 while applications are in process.

---

Transportation and Local Mobility (Richmond specifics)

• GRTC reduced fare and IDs: Seniors can qualify for reduced fares—check how to apply: https://ridegrtc.com/
• CARE paratransit eligibility and scheduling: https://ridegrtc.com/services/specialized-transportation/care/
• Elderly & Disabled Transportation funds (via AAA): https://www.vda.virginia.gov/drivingtransport.htm

Tip: Ask Senior Connections if volunteer driver programs or taxi vouchers are available for medical visits.

---

Step‑by‑Step: Getting the Most Help Fast

1. Call Senior Connections and request an “options counseling” appointment. Bring your ID, Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency, income/assets, medical insurance cards, lease/mortgage, and recent bills.
2. Apply on CommonHelp for SNAP, Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
3. If your power or heat is at risk, call your utility today to set a payment plan, then apply for LIHEAP Crisis Assistance and ask about EnergyShare.
4. If rent is a problem, add your name to RRHA waitlists and HUD Section 202 senior properties; call 2‑1‑1 for eviction prevention and legal help.
5. For unsafe home conditions, apply to EHARP, USDA 504, and Weatherization; contact project:HOMES and Rebuilding Together Richmond.
6. On Medicare? Call VICAP for a plan review and ask about Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help for drug costs.
7. Caregivers: apply for the Respite Voucher when open; ask about adult day services and in‑home aides through CCC Plus.

---

Program Realities, Tips, and Warnings

• Expect waitlists for housing and repairs. Apply to more than one program and keep phone numbers and emails current.
• Keep copies of every document you submit. If you’re denied, ask about the appeal process and deadlines.
• Report changes (income, address, hospitalization) promptly to avoid overpayments or benefit interruptions.
• Use official websites (.gov, .org). Avoid sites that charge application fees.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where can I apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and energy help in one place?
A: Use Virginia’s CommonHelp: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/. For hands‑on help, contact Senior Connections: https://seniorconnections-va.org/

Q: I have Medicare. Can I also get Medicaid?
A: Yes, if your income and assets are within limits. Medicaid can help with Medicare premiums and long‑term services. Start at CoverVA: https://www.coverva.org/, or ask VICAP for guidance: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm

Q: My power might be cut off. What should I do today?
A: Call your utility to ask for a payment plan and medical protections. Apply for LIHEAP Crisis Assistance: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/. If you’re a Dominion customer, ask about EnergyShare: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare. Also call 2‑1‑1.

Q: Is there help to stay in my home and avoid a nursing home?
A: Ask about Virginia’s CCC Plus program for in‑home services: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/. Senior Connections can also connect you to personal care, home‑delivered meals, and caregiver support.

Q: How do I find senior apartments near me?
A: Use HUD’s resource locator and filter for elderly housing: https://resources.hud.gov/. Also check RRHA for local options: https://www.rrha.com/

Q: Can I get help with property taxes in Richmond?
A: Yes. The City of Richmond offers real estate tax relief for eligible older adults: https://www.rva.gov/finance/real-estate-tax-relief

Q: What about prescription drug costs?
A: Ask VICAP to review your Part D or Medicare Advantage plan: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm. If your income is limited, apply for Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/

Q: I can’t afford a dentist. What are my options?
A: Try Donated Dental Services: https://dentallifeline.org/virginia/, Mission of Mercy clinics: https://www.vdaf.org/, and VCU School of Dentistry clinics: https://dentistry.vcu.edu/patients/

Q: Who can help if I’m being evicted?
A: Call the Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline at 1‑833‑NOEVICT (1‑833‑663‑8428) or visit https://www.evictionhelpline.org/. Also contact 2‑1‑1 and HUD‑approved housing counselors: https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/homeownership/seniors

Q: How do I get rides to the doctor?
A: If you have Medicaid, use NEMT: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/. Otherwise, check GRTC reduced fares and CARE paratransit: https://ridegrtc.com/, and ask Senior Connections about ride programs.

---

Resources by Region (Richmond Area)

• Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging (AAA): https://seniorconnections-va.org/
• Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA): https://www.rrha.com/
• City of Richmond – Real Estate Tax Relief: https://www.rva.gov/finance/real-estate-tax-relief
• City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (billing and assistance info): https://www.rva.gov/public-utilities
• Richmond City Health District (public health): https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/richmond-city/
• GRTC Transit System (bus/CARE paratransit): https://ridegrtc.com/
• Feed More (Meals on Wheels and food distribution): https://feedmore.org/
• project:HOMES (home repair/weatherization): https://www.projecthomes.org/
• Rebuilding Together Richmond (home repair): https://rebuildingtogetherrichmond.org/
• Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity: https://www.richmondhabitat.org/
• Central Virginia Legal Aid Society: https://cvlas.org/
• Homeward (regional homelessness coordination): https://homewardva.org/
• Statewide “front doors”: CommonHelp (https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/), 2‑1‑1 Virginia (https://www.211virginia.org/), No Wrong Door (https://nowrongdoorvirginia.org/), VICAP (https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm)

---

Helpful Tables (Quick Reference)

Application “front doors”

Healthcare at a glance

Housing and repairs

Energy and utilities

Food programs

---

Disclaimer

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

---

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: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 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.