Grants for Seniors in North Carolina

Last Updated on April 18, 2024 by Rachel

Key Senior Statistics in North Carolina (60 and over)

Senior Population: 2,565,100 (24.0%)

Male: 45.1%

Female: 54.9%

Median Age: 70

Disability: 30%

With Social Security Income: 76%

With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 12%

Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 11%

Data Source:

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

Help for Seniors in North Carolina – 27 Assistance Programs

North Carolina has been one of the most favored states with respect to its successful education system, financial opportunities, employment options, and technological developments. As one of the safest states, North Carolina is also very appealing for senior citizens. In addition to its glorious beaches and outdoor activities, taxes are very low and the State of North Carolina does not receive taxes for Social Security retirement services. Since the state gets a huge amount of attention from people, it might be difficult to afford living expenses considering increasing demand. Thus, the state officials, the federal government agencies, and local charity-based establishments assist seniors with various programs and benefits.

State Resources for Seniors

The Department of Health and Human Services provides help to the elderly through the Division of Aging and Adult Services. This Division is charged with operating several programs in the state that offers various forms of assistance to seniors. Some of these programs are directly funded while others a funded at the federal level. The Division of Aging and Adult Services also partners with local nonprofits to administer programs across the state. Such partnerships help ensure that the programs being offered get to cover impact as many seniors are possible. Links to other useful resources for the elderly are also provided at the Division’s website, https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/aging-and-adult-services.

Financial Assistance

The State/County Special Assistance In-Home Program for Adults (SA/IH) is a program that provides financial assistance for low-income seniors. SA/IH offers financial aid to help seniors continue to live independently at home. The money provided is used to cover the costs of care and other living expenses. For details of the program, visit https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/adult-services/state-county-special-assistance-in-home.

The Social Security Administration provides financial aid to seniors through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program. SSI gives funds to eligible seniors over the age of 65 years to help them pay for their basic needs. Eligibility for SSI is determined by the income and assets of the seniors. Funding amounts vary and are calculated based on a combination of factors, including the income and needs of the applicant. More information on SSI can be obtained from https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/.

The Salvation Army in North Carolina offers emergency financial assistance and crisis services for people in need. Economically struggling senior residents are urged to apply to this establishment to benefit from various opportunities. The amount of the monetary aid differs based on the financial condition of the applicant. Besides the cash assistance, the Salvation Army in North Carolina provides rent, utility, food, and clothing assistance. Explore more opportunities through the following link https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/north-south-carolina/ or give a call at 336 881 5400.

Aside from the Salvation Army, each state has a vast group of charitable non-profit organizations. Here are the top 10 charities serving seniors nationwide.

Housing and Rent Assistance

North Carolina Adult Care Homes is a state-funded program that has been administered by the Division of Health Service Regulation for the elderly who cannot take care of themselves at home but do not want to live in a nursing home. Older people may benefit from these adult care homes during the daytime to get help with dressing, eating, bathing, socialization, and more. For further information, please visit https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-services/long-term-care/adult-care-homes or get in touch with 888 245 0179.

North Carolina Section 8-Housing Choice Voucher Program was constituted and has been led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development since 1976. This is a very well-known federal government program that provides rent assistance for people who are not able to afford their rent. Qualified seniors will be choosing the house, flat, or apartment by their wish but also compatible with the regulations of this program. Roughly 70 percent of the rent will be paid by the program. Since there is a waiting list, it is best to apply as soon as possible. For additional questions, please go to https://ncadmin.nc.gov/public/ or call 984 236 0160.

The Support Circle Program has been formed and managed by the Catholic Charities of North Carolina to strengthen the families who are at the risk of losing their homes or are already homeless. This program is beyond housing assistance since it also provides psychological support by creating a support circle. The participants of the program help new applicants to find a nice and affordable home. In many cases, they get in touch with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to spot the available options for applicants. Check out more at https://www.catholiccharitiesraleigh.org/support-circle/ dial 984 900 3426.

Home Repair Grants

If you need funds to fix, improve, or update you may check our post on Home Repair Grants for Seniors.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services offers assistance to help seniors repair and modify their homes. This is done through the Housing and Home Improvement program. The program helps older citizens over the age of 60 with repairing their homes. Seniors can get assistance with minor home repairs, security enhancements, accessibility modifications and basic appliance repair or replacement. The Housing and Home Improvement Program provides assistance worth up to $1,500 to carry home repair services. The funds provided are meant strictly for repairs and do not cover payment of rent or utility bills. Administration of the program is done at the local level through various local service providers. These providers are listed at https://www.ncdhhs.gov/home-improvement-provider-directory/download?attachment. To get more details on the program, visit https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/aging-and-adult-services/housing-and-home-improvement-assistance.

Seniors can also get assistance with home repairs through the Urgent Repair Program. This program is an initiative of the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) and provides assistance to older residents to carry out emergency home repairs. The program serves seniors with income below 50% of the area median income and can help with things like septic system repairs, floor repairs, heating system replacement or repairs, etc. Services are also available for elderly residents who need to carry out home modifications after a serious illness. The assistance is provided in the form of an interest-free, deferred loan which is forgiven at $2,000 per year. More details on the program are available at https://www.nchfa.com/current-homeowners/repairing-your-home/urgent-repair-program.

NCHFA also operates the Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation (ESFR) Program. This program helps seniors with income below 80% of the area median income to carry out major repairs essential to safe living. Assistance is also provided in form of loans, but these are forgiven at a rate of $5,000 per year. Further information can be found at https://www.nchfa.com/current-homeowners/repair-your-home/single-family-rehabilitation-program.

Healthcare Assistance

North Carolina Personal Care Services was created by the State of North Carolina and has been managed by the North Carolina Division of Health Benefits for older citizens who are dealing with health and financial struggles. The services of this program are not limited to the applicant’s house. Qualified candidates can receive personal care services in an adult care home or a living facility. Accepted seniors will be getting help with eating, toileting, mobility, bathing, and dressing. Most importantly the program attached importance to health assistance. For more information, please visit https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-services/long-term-care/personal-care-services or make a phone call at 888 245 0179.

The North Carolina Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly was formed and has been subsidized by the state agencies for seniors who need Medicare and Medicaid. Older adults who are 55 years of age and above and looking for all-inclusive care are eligible for this program. The main benefits of this service include an adult day health program and a primary care clinic. To read more information, please click the link https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-services/long-term-care/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly or contact 919 440 0331.

North Carolina Private Duty Nursing is a special nursing assistance program for people who stay at their homes but whose health condition is fragile. The main aim of this nursing support is to encourage those people at their homes rather than a nursing home. This support lasts according to the medical situation of the participant. Find out more information at https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-and-services/long-term-care/private-duty-nursing-pdn or reach out at 919 855 4380.

Shifa Free Clinic is a free healthcare provider that serves low-income seniors in North Carolina. The clinic attends to elderly residents who are financially challenged and do not have health insurance. Basic services are available at the clinic, like physical examinations, laboratory testing, x-rays, etc. Seniors can also get free medication from the clinic. For more details, visit https://shifafreeclinic.com/.

The Community Free Clinic offers free healthcare services to residents of North Carolina. Seniors can receive primary health services, as well as specialty care when needed. Laboratory testing is also provided to aid diagnosis and choose the best treatment. A pharmacy is available for seniors to pick up their prescribed medication at no cost. Seniors can find details on the operational hours at https://communityfreeclinic.org/hours-location/.

The Asheville Buncombe Community Chrisitan Ministry (ABCCM) offers uninsured seniors access to standard healthcare. Residents can receive comprehensive healthcare services from the Medical Ministry of ABCCM, along with free medication. Urgent care services are also provided to seniors who have emergency situations. For more information, visit https://www.abccm.org/medical-ministry/.

The North Carolina Association of Free and Charitable Clinics maintains a directory of free clinics in the state. This directory can be view at https://ncafcc.org/our-clinic-list/.

Help with Dental Care

Blue Ridge Free Dental Clinic provides dental care services for financially challenged seniors in North Carolina. The clinic is run by volunteer dental professionals who offer several dental services to restore oral health of older citizens. Blue Ridge cares for many seniors in the state and focuses on low-income residents, particularly those without dental insurance. Services are available to uninsured elderly persons whose income does not exceed 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Visits are on an appointment basis and priority is usually given to seniors who have dental emergencies. To get start with receiving free dental care, visit https://www.brfdc.org/.

Agape Dental Ministry is a nonprofit organization that provides free dental care services to low-income persons, including seniors. The clinic offers services such as oral exams, fillings, dental x-rays, tooth extractions, etc. The main goal is to serve low-income residents, especially those without dental insurance coverage. The income limit for patients is 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. However, Agape Dental Ministry also attends to veterans regardless of their income status. More information can be found at https://www.agapedentalministry.org/services.html.

The Dental Lifeline Network offers comprehensive dental care to seniors through its Donated Dental Services (DDS) program. The network is made up of dental professionals who volunteer their services to take care of the oral health of challenged seniors. Services are provided to seniors over the age of 65 who are experiencing financial hardship and are unable to pay for dental care. DDS offers a comprehensive level of care, with services like laboratory testing, tooth extractions, root canals, cleanings, etc. However, due to the potential for long wait times, emergency services are not provided. The services of DDS are generally free, but in some cases, seniors may be encouraged to make a donation if they can afford it. For more information, visit https://dentallifeline.org/north-carolina/.

Seniors’ oral health problems are usually caused by aging. Most seniors stay away from the dentist. Given that there is funding set aside expressly for oral treatment, this shouldn’t be the case. Find out how older citizens can get these services by visiting Dental Grants in North Carolina.

Utility Bills Assistance

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) helps financially challenged seniors with their utility bills. The program assists eligible seniors over the age of 60 who are unable to pay for their home heating costs. LIEAP covers the cost of the utilities, making a payment to the vendor on behalf of the applicant. Eligibility for LIEAP assistance is based on the income and value of assets the senior has. Applications for LIEAP opens one month earlier for seniors, allowing them get priority in receiving assistance. Information on the program can be gotten from https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/energy-assistance/low-income-energy-assistance-lieap.

The Lifeline Program provides discounts on phone bills for eligible low-income elderly residents of North Carolina. Seniors may receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on their phone and internet bills through this program. Elderly residents who live on federally-recognized tribal lands may receive discounts of up to $34.25 every month. Lifeline helps the elderly stay connected to the outside world, which is very important when help is needed. Eligibility for other financial assistance programs is usually enough for a senior to be accepted under the Lifeline program. For more details on the Lifeline program in North Carolina, visit https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/county-staff-information/other-programs/lifeline-and-link-programs.

Central Electric Membership Corporation North Carolina has been formed and supported both by the Department of Social Services and the local neighbors. This corporation is intended to assist low and middle-income persons who are not able to pay their utility costs with financial assistance. Seniors looking for utility support are encouraged to get in touch with this organization. To apply, please visit https://cemcpower.com/ or make a call at 1 800 446 775.

Dominion North Carolina Power Utility Support is a utility assistance program that has been formed and financed by Dominion Energy which is a local electricity company. People who are in economic hardship may apply for this assistance to have a discount on their bills. Older residents are prioritized by this company on receiving discounts. The link to their official website is as follows https://www.dominionenergy.com/north-carolina-electric or dial 1 919 774 4900.

Additional aid efforts backed by the government, religious institutions, and charitable organizations provide cheaper utility bills to seniors. You may check Help with Bills for those options.

Food Assistance

North Carolina Food and Nutrition Services (Food Stamps) was constituted by the federal government and has been run by the Department of Health and Human Services. This program aims to deliver healthy and nutritious meals for low and moderate-income families who are not able to cook at their homes or cannot afford to buy food. Senior residents are one of the priority groups in this program and the eligible seniors will receive Electronic Benefit Transfer Cards also known as EBT cards. The amount of the money depends on the current economic situation of the applicant. To read more and apply, please click the link https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/low-income-services/food-nutrition-services-food-stamps or dial NC EBT Call Center 1 866 719 0141.

Nutrition-Congregate and Home Delivered Meals have been sponsored and led by the Division of Aging and Adult Services specifically for low-income older people. Congregate Nutrition basically offers lunch based on the applicants’ diets. Home Delivered Meals sends cold, hot, or frozen meals to older persons five days a week. To see more information, please follow the link https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/adult-services/nutrition-congregate-home-delivered-meals or make a phone call the hotline 1 800 662 7030.

The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides assistance for seniors to get healthy foods. This program improves the nutrition of low-income seniors by giving coupons which can be used to purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables. The coupons are accepted at farmers’ markets in the state and give seniors a chance to buy fresh nutritious fruits. More details on the SFMNP are available at https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/child-and-family-well-being/food-and-nutrition-services-food-stamps.

Additional support programs aim to promote the health of low-income seniors by supplementing their diets with nutritional requirements. Food Programs for Seniors is where you can find the list.

Transportation Assistance

Seniors aged 60 and above can get assistance with transportation. This is made possible by special services which provide transport arrangements to get the elderly to and from resource centers. Transport assistance may be available to help seniors get to grocery stores, shopping centers, senior centers, hospitals, etc. These services are not directly provided by the state, but are funded through grants for administration by private companies. A list of the transport providers in each county can be found at https://fsp.unc.edu/node/102.

Charities and Organizations

The Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte is a charity organization that provides supportive services to seniors in North Carolina. Shepherd’s Center offers resources to make life easier for the elderly. Transporation services are also provided to help older residents get around safely. These services are provided by volunteers who offer rides at no cost. More information can be found at https://www.shepherdscharlotte.org/services.

The Durham Center for Senior Life operates senior centers across the state that provide care services for the elderly. These senior centers meet needs by providing seniors with access to essential items. The centers serve as sites for congregate meal programs, where food is distributed to seniors for free. Transportation services are provided, as well as a food pantry that gives durable food items to seniors for home preparation. Details can be gotten from https://dcslnc.org/services/.

The Catholic Charities is another charity organization in the state that cares for the elderly. Catholic Charities provides assistance in various forms, offering financial assistance for rent and utilities, pantries for food items, free clothes, transitional assistance, etc.  Seniors can visit https://ccdoc.org/ for details.

Assistance for Senior Veterans

North Carolina Heroes Fund (NCHF) is a special fund set up to provide support to veterans in need. NCHF provides financial assistance to help veterans meet urgent needs and maintain living stability. Assistance is available to help with payment of rent, utility bills, home and vehicle repairs, and other pressing needs. North Carolina veterans who wish to seek help from NCHF can do so at https://www.ncheroes.org/apply-for-assistance/.

The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in the state also renders aid to challenged veterans. This is usually in form of help given to establish housing stability. Several resources are provided to help veterans get access to affordable housing. In some cases, funding may be provided to help secure a decent living arrangement. Apartments are also available for homeless veterans who need to get off the streets as soon as possible. For further information, visit https://www.milvets.nc.gov/services/housing-assistance.

The Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) is another way that veterans can get assistance. SSVF helps veterans find financial stability by providing them with a variety of resources. Usually, the first step is to provide a decent housing arrangement for veterans who do not already have such. Other forms of assistance come in form of money for payment of rent, utility bills, vehicle repairs, etc. Details of the program in the state can be found at https://www.voachesapeake.org/services/veteran-services/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What financial assistance programs are available for seniors in North Carolina? North Carolina seniors can benefit from the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) for assistance with Medicare costs, the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) for help with heating and cooling bills, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food assistance.

2. How can seniors apply for Medicaid in North Carolina? Seniors can apply for Medicaid through the NC FAST portal online, by calling the NC Medicaid Contact Center, or in person at their county Division of Social Services (DSS) office. Essential documents include proof of age, income, residency, and assets.

3. What housing assistance is available for seniors in North Carolina? The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) provides the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program for rental assistance and information on affordable housing for seniors. The Agency also offers home repair and accessibility modification programs for senior homeowners.

4. Can seniors receive help with utility bills in North Carolina? Yes, the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) offers financial support to eligible seniors to assist with heating and cooling expenses, ensuring their home environment remains safe and comfortable.

5. How do seniors get help with prescription medications in North Carolina? The North Carolina Department of Insurance’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides counseling and assistance in finding programs to help manage the costs of prescription medications, including Medicare Part D.

6. Are there property tax relief programs for seniors in North Carolina? The North Carolina Property Tax Homestead Exclusion offers property tax relief to seniors 65 and older or those who are totally and permanently disabled, based on income eligibility, reducing the tax burden on their primary residence.

7. What in-home care services can seniors access in North Carolina? The Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) in North Carolina funds a variety of in-home and community services for seniors, including personal care, meal delivery, and transportation services, to support independent living.

8. How can seniors access transportation services in North Carolina? Many counties in North Carolina offer transportation services for seniors through local Area Agencies on Aging, providing rides to medical appointments, senior centers, and essential errands.

9. What nutritional programs support seniors in North Carolina? The Nutrition Program for the Elderly, funded through the Older Americans Act, offers congregate nutrition services (meals served at community or senior centers) and home-delivered meals for eligible seniors.

10. How can seniors in North Carolina receive legal assistance? Legal Aid of North Carolina provides free legal help to low-income seniors on various issues, including healthcare, housing, consumer protection, and advance directives, ensuring their rights and interests are protected.