Grants for Seniors in South Dakota

Last Updated on February 3, 2024 by Rachel

Key Senior Statistics in South Dakota (60 and over)
Senior Population: 229,647 (25.2%) Senior Population: 229,647 (25.2%)
Male: 47.4% Male: 47.4%
Female: 52.6% Female: 52.6%
Median Age: 70 Median Age: 70
Disability: 28% Disability: 28%
With Social Security Income: 73% With Social Security Income: 73%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 6% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 6%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 11% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 11%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2022. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics in South Dakota for more data and information.

Help for Seniors in South Dakota

South Dakota shines with its nature, friendly residents, and low cost of living conditions. This state was chosen fourth best state to retire by CNBC and the second best state in terms of happiness and well-being. It is indeed an affordable state when it comes to transportation, utilities, housing, and health expenses. South Dakota was also chosen as the best state to retire by Bankrate.com in 2018. Although it is one of the most senior-friendly states, some seniors may need help. There is a whole range of programs and services for seniors that are offered by the federal government, local society organizations, and the State of South Dakota.


Housing and Rent Assistance

South Dakota Housing Choice Voucher Program-Section 8 is a well-known rent assistance program that was formed by the federal government with the aim of helping low and moderate-income residents. Seniors who are looking for rental assistance because of their economic hardship are prioritized by this program. Eligible seniors will be choosing their home, apartment, or flat based on their wishes. Roughly 70 percent of the rent will be covered by this benefit but it may differ depending on the total household income. For more information, please visit https://www.hud.gov/states/south_dakota/renting or call 605 886 2867.

Salvation Army of South Dakota is one of the most influential non-governmental establishments in the state. It presents many services and benefits for all residents who need help. It assists people with meal assistance, financial support, empowering youth, and legal support. Besides, it has a Homeless Prevention Program that provides housing support for those who are at risk of losing their homes or who are about to be evicted. Seniors who need housing assistance are qualified for this program. To learn more, please go to https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/siouxfalls/partner-with-adults/ contact 605 332 2331. In addition to the Salvation Army, there are additional charitable organizations that provide assistance to senior citizens.

South Dakota Cares Housing Assistance Program was created both by the State of South Dakota and South Dakota Housing Development Authority to provide affordable, decent, and nice housing options for people in economically disadvantaged positions. Older citizens who need a house for the long or short term are qualified for this program. To see eligibility criteria, please follow the link https://www.sdhda.org/social-programs/cares-act-housing-assistance-program or make a phone call at 605 773 3181.

Furthermore, there are Home Repair Grants available to seniors that help to ensure their homes are safe and properly maintained.

Financial Assistance

Catholic Charities South Dakota is a non-profit establishment that offers numerous programs and services for residents in need. There are grants available for seniors who require financial support. The size and total income of the household are the main criteria for this benefit. Amount of cash assistance changes based on the applicant’s case. Receivers can get monetary aid for housing needs, rent, or utilities. Find out more information at https://ccfesd.org/grants/ or give a call at 605 988 3788. Many other churches offer services and programs aimed at aiding the elderly population. It is recommended to reach out to nearby churches to learn about the services and programs they offer.

Health Assistance

South Dakota Medicaid was formed and has been sponsored by the Department of Social Services Division of Economic Assistance specifically for seniors. Elder citizens who are 60 years of age or older and who have a disability or illness are encouraged to apply for this benefit. This benefit covers hospital stays, prescription bills assistance, nursing home care expenses, doctor appointments, and other health-related expenses. The link to their official website is as follows https://dss.sd.gov/contactus/default.aspx or dial 605 773 5013. In most states, including South Dakota, Medicaid for seniors also covers dental services, vision care and hearing aids for eligible seniors.

South Dakota Caregiver Support Program was created and has been operated by the South Dakota Department of Human Services for senior citizens who need personal care at their homes. People who are 60 years of age or older are eligible to benefit from this service. Some seniors may want to have a caregiver instead of moving into a nursing home. Some of the duties of caregivers are assisting the applicant at home, helping with bathing, dressing, cleaning, and housekeeping. Further information can be accessed by clicking on the following link https://dhs.sd.gov/en/get-help-for-older-adult or make a phone call at 1 833 663 9673.

Oral health is essential especially for seniors. Poor oral health can lead to many health problems including gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss. Fortunately, there are dental grants in South Dakota to help seniors maintain their oral health.

Utility Bills Assistance

South Dakota Low Income Energy Assistance was created by the federal authorities and has been managed by the State of South Dakota for persons who are having hardship in paying their utility bills. Senior residents are prioritized by this benefit and the amount of monthly help can differ based on the total size of the household. To see the application process, please click the link https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/lowincome.aspx or make contact with 605 773 3766 or 800 233 8503.

South Dakota Weatherization Assistance was constituted and has been run by the South Dakota Department of Social Services to increase energy efficiency throughout the state. Older citizens who are interested in saving their income and energy are urged to apply for this assistance. Some of the services are repair of heating systems, insulating walls, attics, and under floors, weather-stripping windows and doors, and more. Find out more information at https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/weatherization.aspx or call 1 800 604 5099.

In addition to these programs, many other utility bills assistance programs are available nationwide to help those struggling to pay their bills.

Food Assistance

South Dakota Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps, has been managed by the South Dakota Department of Social Services for people who are having difficulties in purchasing healthy and nutritious food. Senior citizens and their families are priority groups for this food assistance. The total size, income, and allowable expenses are the main requirements for the evaluation process. The food boxes are prepared based on the applicants’ diet. For further information and to apply, go to https://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/snap/ or get in touch with 605 773 3653 or 877 999 5612.

South Dakota Commodity Supplemental Food Program has been sponsored by the federal authorities and led by the State of South Dakota for low and middle-income elderly people who are 60 years old or above. Some senior residents may not afford to purchase healthy and nutritious food because of economic reasons. Some of them may not cook at their homes due to health issues. These people are qualified for this food program. Eligible candidates will be receiving food packages based on their health condition. Read more at https://doe.sd.gov/cans/csfp.aspx or call 605 773 3134.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What financial assistance programs are available for seniors in South Dakota? Seniors in South Dakota can access the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) for help with heating bills, the South Dakota Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program for fresh produce, and the Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) program to assist with Medicare-related expenses.

2. How can seniors apply for Medicaid in South Dakota? Medicaid applications for seniors in South Dakota can be submitted online through the DSS website, by mail, or in person at local Department of Social Services offices. Essential documentation includes proof of income, assets, South Dakota residency, and age.

3. What housing assistance is available for seniors in South Dakota? The South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) offers the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) for rental assistance and provides resources on affordable housing options for seniors, including home repair and rehabilitation programs for homeowners.

4. Can seniors receive assistance with utility bills in South Dakota? Yes, the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) provides financial aid to eligible seniors to help cover heating costs during the winter months, ensuring they stay warm and safe.

5. How do seniors get help with prescription medications in South Dakota? The South Dakota Prescription Drug Assistance Program provides financial assistance to qualifying seniors to help cover the costs of prescription medications, complementing Medicare Part D coverage.

6. Are there property tax relief programs for seniors in South Dakota? The South Dakota Property Tax Reduction Program from Municipal Taxes offers property tax relief to seniors based on income criteria, helping to reduce the financial burden of property taxes on their primary residence.

7. What in-home care services can seniors access in South Dakota? The South Dakota Department of Human Services offers in-home services through the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, including personal care, homemaking, and respite care, to support seniors living independently.

8. How can seniors access transportation services in South Dakota? Transportation services for seniors are available through local Area Agencies on Aging, providing essential rides to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social activities, often at reduced rates or for free.

9. What nutritional programs support seniors in South Dakota? The Elderly Nutrition Program offers congregate meals at local senior centers and home-delivered meals through programs like Meals on Wheels, ensuring seniors have access to nutritious meals and social engagement opportunities.

10. How can seniors in South Dakota receive legal assistance? Legal assistance for seniors in South Dakota is available through South Dakota Legal Services, offering free legal advice and representation on issues such as healthcare, housing, consumer protection, and elder rights.