Tennessee Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Tennessee

Last updated: August 2025

Key takeaways

• Start with your local Area Agency on Aging and Disability to find and apply for multiple programs with one call. Use the state’s locator to find your office and options for in‑home help, meals, transportation, and caregiver support.
• Health coverage for low- and middle‑income seniors typically blends Medicare with TennCare programs such as CHOICES (for long‑term services and supports) and Medicare Savings Programs that can pay Medicare premiums and reduce costs.
• Tennessee offers strong housing and home safety help for older homeowners and renters, including Section 8 vouchers, the Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly, weatherization, and property tax relief or freeze programs.
• Food and utility support is available statewide through SNAP, Meals on Wheels, congregate meal sites, LIHEAP energy assistance, and weatherization.
• Application steps take time and documents. Be prepared with ID, proof of Tennessee residency, income and asset information, medical bills, and housing or utility statements. Use free counselors (SHIP) to avoid costly mistakes and scams.

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If you need emergency help

• Call 911 for life‑threatening emergencies.
• Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for mental health or emotional distress.
• Adult Protective Services (suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation): Use the state’s reporting options at the Tennessee Department of Human Services Adult Protective Services page: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/adults/adult-protective-services.html
• Find immediate local help (food, shelter, utilities, transportation): Call 2‑1‑1 or visit United Way 211 Tennessee: https://www.211.org/local/tennessee
• Domestic violence and sexual assault help: Tennessee resources via the TN Coalition: https://www.tncoalition.org/get-help
• Veterans in crisis: Call 988 and press 1, or use VA’s Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Quick reference

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How to use this guide

This is a plain‑language, step‑by‑step summary of Tennessee programs that can lower your costs for health care, housing, food, utilities, transportation, and caregiving. Each section tells you what the program does, who usually qualifies, practical tips, and where to apply. When possible, we link directly to official Tennessee and federal pages.

Reality check: Some programs have waitlists or county‑by‑county differences. Income and asset rules matter. Don’t be discouraged—free counselors can help you find the best fit and avoid delays.

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Start here: Your Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAAD)

Your AAAD is the best first stop. They screen you for multiple programs and help with applications for in‑home care, meals, transportation, caregiver breaks, and more.

• Find your local AAAD: Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging 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 guidance to 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 for older adults who don’t qualify for Medicaid. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html
• Family caregiver support (NFCSP) and Lifespan Respite: training, counseling, and respite care for family caregivers. 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
• Health promotion: evidence‑based classes for chronic disease self‑management and fall prevention—ask your AAAD about available workshops near you.

Tip: Write down your medications, doctors, and daily living needs (bathing, dressing, preparing food) before your call. This helps the AAAD match you to the right services faster.

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Health coverage and cost‑savings

Medicare help (all seniors 65+ and some with disabilities)

• Get free, unbiased counseling: Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can compare Medicare plans, check drug costs, and screen you for cost‑saving programs. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html
• Check Medicare rights, costs, and coverage: https://www.medicare.gov

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)

MSPs can pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes other costs if your income and resources are within limits. In Tennessee these are administered through TennCare.

• Learn about MSPs in Tennessee and how to apply: TennCare Medicare Savings Programs page: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/medicare-savings-programs.html
• Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) for Part D drug costs: Apply through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help

Tennessee CHOICES in Long‑Term Services & Supports (LTSS)

If you need help with daily activities at home or in a nursing facility, CHOICES can provide in‑home care, community‑based services, or nursing facility services for eligible adults.

• Program details, eligibility, and how to apply: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html

Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

PACE is a team‑based model that bundles Medicare and Medicaid services to help eligible older adults remain in their community instead of moving to a nursing home. Availability is limited to certain areas.

• Learn about PACE: Medicare PACE overview: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/pace
• Ask TennCare or your AAAD if PACE operates in your county: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare.html

Medicaid/TennCare for seniors and people with disabilities

TennCare covers low‑income adults with medical and long‑term care needs. Income, assets, and level‑of‑care tests apply.

• Eligibility and application (online, phone, or in person): https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/eligibility/tenncare-medicaid.html

Prescription assistance

• SHIP can review Part D and Medicare Advantage drug coverage and look for patient assistance programs.
• National co‑pay foundations (disease‑specific) may help. Start with the widely used HealthWell Foundation: https://www.healthwellfoundation.org/ and ask SHIP to screen you for others. Note: these are national charities with limited funds and waitlists.

Hearing, vision, and dental

• Dental: Donated Dental Services for eligible seniors with disabilities or fragile health (Dental Lifeline Network Tennessee): https://dentallifeline.org/tennessee/
• Low‑cost dental schools: University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry clinics: https://www.uthsc.edu/dentistry/patient-care/index.php
• Vision: Check EyeCare America for exams for eligible seniors: https://www.aao.org/eyecare-america
• Hearing: Medicare rarely covers hearing aids. Compare discounts and check benefits via SHIP; also ask about local Lions Clubs assistance.

Health coverage options at a glance

Reality check: Expect paperwork and possible assessments for CHOICES and MSPs. If denied, you have appeal rights—ask SHIP or legal aid for help.

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Money help (cash and bills)

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Families First)

While TANF is mainly for families with children, some multigenerational households with a senior caregiver may qualify for short‑term cash help.

• Program info and how to apply: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/families-first-tanf.html

Property Tax Relief and Property Tax Freeze

• Property Tax Relief: State program that provides a reimbursement on part of your property tax if you meet age (65+), income, and other rules.
  • Details and how to apply through your county trustee: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html
• Property Tax Freeze: Some cities/counties freeze taxes at current amounts for qualifying elderly homeowners.
  • Check local participation and eligibility: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-freeze.html

Utility bills and home energy

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating and cooling bills. Administered by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) through local agencies. https://thda.org/renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
• WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program): Free home energy upgrades to lower bills (insulation, air sealing, minor repairs). https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• Lifeline phone and broadband discount: Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible low‑income households. https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
• Local utility hardship funds: Ask your electric, gas, and water providers and dial 2‑1‑1 for community programs.

Charitable emergency help

• Catholic Charities of Tennessee (short‑term emergency aid varies by location): https://cctenn.org/causes/emergency-assistance/
• Operation Homefront (veteran and military families): https://operationhomefront.org/critical-financial-assistance/
• Salvation Army (rent, utilities, food; varies by county): find your local unit: https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/

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

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Housing, home repairs, and safety modifications

Renters

• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Helps pay rent in the private market. THDA administers vouchers in many Tennessee counties; large cities run their own programs. Vouchers often have waitlists.
  • THDA voucher information and application status: https://thda.org/renters/housing-choice-voucher-program
  • Find local public housing agencies: HUD Tennessee directory: https://www.hud.gov/states/tennessee/renting/hawebsites
• Public Housing: Income‑based apartments managed by local housing authorities. Apply directly to your city/county housing authority (use the HUD directory above).

Homeowners

• Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (ERP): Essential repairs to make your home safe and livable (e.g., heating, roofing, accessibility). For homeowners age 60+ with low income. Administered by THDA through local partners. https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants and Loans): Rural seniors 62+ may qualify for grants to remove health/safety hazards and loans for other repairs. https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Energy‑saving upgrades at no cost. https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• Home modifications (ramps, grab bars): Ask your AAAD about Title III‑B and OPTIONS funding or referrals; also check VA for veteran home modification grants.

Homelessness prevention and shelter

• Coordinated entry and shelter referrals are handled locally. Start with 2‑1‑1 or your nearest Continuum of Care. HUD’s list of Tennessee homeless program contacts: https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/

Housing and repair programs at a glance

Reality check: Repair programs prioritize urgent hazards, not cosmetic fixes. Expect inspections and contractor timelines. Keep all award letters and invoices.

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Food and nutrition

SNAP (Food Stamps)

• Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors have special deductions for medical expenses that can increase benefits.
• How to apply and eligibility: Tennessee Department of Human Services SNAP: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/dhs-programs/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.html

Meals for older adults

• Home‑Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels): For homebound older adults; includes wellness checks by drivers. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/aging-nutrition-program/home-delivered-meals.html
• Congregate Meals at Senior Centers: Hot meals with social activities; typically weekdays. Find meal sites: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/aging-nutrition-program/meal-sites.html

Farmers’ market support

• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal vouchers to buy fruits and vegetables from approved markets. Check Tennessee availability and local sign‑ups via USDA state contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/state-directory

USDA Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

• Monthly box of staple foods for eligible older adults through local agencies.
• Find Tennessee state contact and local providers: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/state-contact-list

Food programs at a glance

Tip: For SNAP, list all out‑of‑pocket medical costs (premiums, co‑pays, supplies). These can raise your benefit.

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Transportation

• MyRide Tennessee: Volunteer driver program for rides to appointments and shopping (weekdays). https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/transportation-assistance/myride-tn.html
• Public transit senior fares: Most systems offer reduced fares or paratransit for riders who cannot use fixed routes. Check your local transit agency.
• TennCare Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation: If you have TennCare and no ride to covered medical care, you can request a ride. https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/transportation.html
• Veteran transportation: Ask your county VA office or local VA Medical Center about DAV or VA shuttle options: https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Transportation options at a glance

Reality check: Book rides early. Volunteer programs may fill up days in advance. For medical rides, have your appointment details ready.

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Caregivers and staying at home safely

• National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP): Training, counseling, respite care, and limited supplies for caregivers of adults 60+ or people with dementia. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/caregiving.html
• Lifespan Respite: Short‑term relief for unpaid caregivers of people of any age with special needs; helps fund respite breaks. Access via your AAAD. 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 for older adults not eligible for Medicaid. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help with grievances in nursing homes or assisted living. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/long-term-care-ombudsman.html

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

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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
• West Tennessee Legal Services: https://www.wtls.org
• Memphis Area Legal Services: https://www.malsi.org
• Statewide legal information and referral (Help4TN): https://www.help4tn.org or call 1‑844‑HELP4TN (check site for current number and hours).
• Consumer protection and scam reporting: Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs (Dept. of Commerce & Insurance): https://www.tn.gov/commerce/consumer-affairs.html
• Do Not Call Registry: https://www.donotcall.gov

Reality check: Government agencies will not call and demand payment by gift cards or threaten arrest. If unsure, hang up and call the agency using the number on its official website.

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Special sections

LGBTQ+ older adults

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (support and resources): https://www.sageusa.org/hotline
• Pride centers and community organizations in cities like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga often host senior socials, support groups, and resource referrals. Check your city’s LGBTQ+ center websites.
• Health care rights and protections are evolving; bring a health care proxy/advance directive to appointments. Tennessee Advance Directive forms and guidance: https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/advance-directives.html
• SHIP counselors can help select plans with inclusive provider networks. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html

Veterans and military families

• Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS): Statewide claims assistance for VA benefits, discharge upgrades, education, and more. https://www.tn.gov/veteran
• VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits: May increase monthly pension for qualifying veterans/survivors with care needs. https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes (skilled nursing for eligible veterans): https://tsvh.org
• Property Tax Relief for disabled veterans: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html
• Operation Homefront emergency assistance (for eligible military/veteran families): https://operationhomefront.org/critical-financial-assistance/

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

Seniors with disabilities

• TennCare CHOICES and home‑based supports: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html
• Assistive technology and home modifications: Ask your AAAD about local programs; check WAP and ERP for safety upgrades. https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap and https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program
• Transportation and paratransit certifications: Your transit agency can evaluate eligibility for door‑to‑door paratransit.
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI: Apply or manage benefits via Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov

American Indian and Alaska Native elders

Tennessee does not have federally recognized tribes within the state, but many AI/AN elders live here and remain citizens of Tribes recognized elsewhere.

• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area): Information for eligible AI/AN individuals, including Purchased/Referred Care through your Tribe: https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/
• Urban and community support: The Native American Indian Association of Tennessee offers cultural and community services; contact them for referrals to health and social services. https://naiatn.org
• Medicare, 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 and limited‑access areas

• USDA rural repair grants and loans (Section 504) can be a lifeline for home safety fixes: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn
• Telehealth may save travel time; ask your providers and Medicare plan about covered virtual visits.
• Transportation: MyRide TN, public paratransit, and TennCare medical rides can help reach distant clinics. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/transportation-assistance/myride-tn.html
• Internet discounts: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program has ended funding; the Lifeline program still offers phone/internet discounts for eligible households. https://www.lifelinesupport.org

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Resources by region

Middle Tennessee (Nashville and surrounding counties)

• Area Agency on Aging & Disability (Greater Nashville): Use the state AAAD directory to reach the Middle TN office: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html
• Council on Aging of Middle Tennessee (resources, classes, caregiver help): https://www.coamidtn.org
• United Way of Greater Nashville (local assistance and 211 referrals): https://www.unitedwaygn.org

East Tennessee (Knoxville and surrounding counties)

• Knoxville‑Knox County CAC Office on Aging (senior services, transportation, meals): https://www.knoxseniors.org
• United Way of Greater Knoxville (funding partner and referrals): https://www.uwgk.org
• AAAD contact via state directory: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html

Southeast Tennessee (Chattanooga area)

• Southeast Tennessee AAAD (caregiver, nutrition, transportation): Use the state AAAD directory: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html
• United Way of Greater Chattanooga: https://www.unitedwaycha.org

West Tennessee (Memphis area)

• Memphis Area Legal Services (civil legal help for eligible seniors): https://www.malsi.org
• MIFA (Meals on Wheels, emergency assistance for seniors): https://www.mifa.org
• AAAD through the state directory (Aging Commission of the Mid‑South): https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html

Upper East Tennessee (Tri‑Cities and rural counties)

• First Tennessee AAAD (nutrition, in‑home services, caregiver help): find via state directory: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html
• United Way of East Tennessee Highlands: https://www.uwetnh.org

Statewide

• Statewide AAAD locator: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html
• SHIP Medicare counseling: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html
• 2‑1‑1 Tennessee: https://www.211.org/local/tennessee

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Applying: documents and tips

Bring or gather:

• Photo ID and proof of Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, or letter).
• Social Security number (or 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 bills, receipts, pharmacy printouts (helpful 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 caseworker) to coordinate multiple applications.
• Ask about appeal rights and deadlines if you are denied.
• Beware of fees: Legitimate state services like SHIP and AAAD are free.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Where should I start if I’m overwhelmed?

• Call your local Area Agency on Aging and Disability. They can screen you for multiple services and help with applications. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html

2. Can I get help at home without moving to a nursing facility?

• Yes. Ask about TennCare CHOICES (if you meet medical and financial rules) and non‑Medicaid OPTIONS/Title III services through the AAAD. https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html and https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html

3. I can’t afford my Medicare premiums. What can help?

• 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

4. Are there programs to lower my energy bills?

• Yes. LIHEAP provides help with heating and cooling bills, and Weatherization (WAP) can reduce energy use with home upgrades. https://thda.org/renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap and https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap

5. How can I get home repairs or a wheelchair ramp?

• THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly focuses on safety‑critical repairs; AAAD programs may fund small modifications; USDA 504 can help in rural areas. https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program and https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn

6. Is there help with property taxes?

• Tennessee’s Property Tax Relief program may reimburse part of your property tax. Some areas also offer a Property Tax Freeze. Check the Comptroller’s pages and your county trustee. https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html and https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-freeze.html

7. Are there food programs besides SNAP?

• Yes. Meals on Wheels, congregate meals at senior centers, Commodity Supplemental Food Program, and seasonal Senior Farmers’ Market vouchers. See resources above.

8. What if I’m a grandparent raising grandchildren?

• Ask about Families First (TANF) and the Relative Caregiver Program through the Department of Children’s Services, which offers services and support to kinship caregivers. https://www.tn.gov/dcs/program-areas/foster-care-and-adoption/rcp.html

9. How do I report elder abuse or exploitation?

• Contact Adult Protective Services. You can report online or by phone using the information at: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/adults/adult-protective-services.html

10. I’m a veteran—where can I get help applying for benefits?

• Contact the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services or your county VSO for free, accredited help. https://www.tn.gov/veteran

11. Is Affordable Connectivity (internet discount) still available?

• The Affordable Connectivity Program ended due to lack of funding. The Lifeline program remains for eligible households. https://www.lifelinesupport.org

12. Where can I get unbiased help for Medicare plan choices?

• SHIP counselors provide free, unbiased assistance statewide. https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html

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Source links and official references

• Area Agencies on Aging & Disability, programs and services: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging
• AAAD directory: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/area-agencies-on-aging-and-disability.html
• Caregiving and respite programs (NFCSP; Lifespan Respite): https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/caregiving.html
• Home and Community‑Based Services (OPTIONS, Title III‑B): https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/hcbs.html
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/long-term-care-ombudsman.html
• SHIP (Medicare counseling): https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html
• TennCare Medicaid eligibility: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/eligibility/tenncare-medicaid.html
• CHOICES LTSS: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/long-term-services-supports/choices-in-ltss.html
• TennCare MSPs: https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/medicare-savings-programs.html
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov
• Extra Help (Part D): https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help
• SNAP in Tennessee: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/dhs-programs/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.html
• Home‑Delivered and Congregate Meals: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/aging-nutrition-program
• SFMNP state directory: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/state-directory
• CSFP state contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/state-contact-list
• LIHEAP (THDA): https://thda.org/renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
• Weatherization (THDA): https://thda.org/programs/weatherization-assistance-program-wap
• Section 8 HCV (THDA): https://thda.org/renters/housing-choice-voucher-program
• HUD Tennessee housing authorities: https://www.hud.gov/states/tennessee/renting/hawebsites
• Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (THDA): https://thda.org/homeowners/repair-and-rehabilitation-programs/emergency-repair-program
• USDA 504 Home Repair (Tennessee): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tn
• Property Tax Relief: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-relief.html
• Property Tax Freeze: https://comptroller.tn.gov/office-functions/pa/tennessee-property-tax-programs/tax-freeze.html
• Adult Protective Services: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/adults/adult-protective-services.html
• 2‑1‑1 Tennessee: https://www.211.org/local/tennessee
• Legal Aid Society of Middle TN & the Cumberlands: https://www.las.org
• West Tennessee Legal Services: https://www.wtls.org
• Memphis Area Legal Services: https://www.malsi.org
• Help4TN statewide legal info: https://www.help4tn.org
• Consumer Affairs (TN Commerce & Insurance): https://www.tn.gov/commerce/consumer-affairs.html
• SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: https://www.sageusa.org/hotline
• Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes: https://tsvh.org
• Tennessee Department of Veterans Services: https://www.tn.gov/veteran
• VA Aid & Attendance/Housebound: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area): https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/
• Native American Indian Association of Tennessee: https://naiatn.org
• Lifeline phone/internet: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
• SHIP (duplicate intentional for emphasis): https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/tn-ship.html

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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: 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.