Senior benefits in Etowah County, Alabama

The East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (EARPDC) runs the Area Agency on Aging for 10 counties in east Alabama, including Etowah County. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Programs include senior centers and meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, Medicaid Waiver in-home help, SHIP Medicare counseling, SenioRx prescription help, legal help for older adults, the long-term care ombudsman, and senior jobs. Call 256-237-6741 or 1-800-239-6741, or the Alabama Ageline at 1-800-243-5463.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Etowah County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action of Etowah County. Household income must not be more than 150% of the federal poverty level, and the program targets older adults, people with disabilities, and young children. Call 256-546-9271 to ask how to apply or to check on an application. ADECA, the state office, does not take applications. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $280–$1,100 a year

Gadsden Regional Medical Center offers financial assistance to patients who are uninsured, underinsured, not eligible for a government program, or otherwise unable to pay. Its Charity Care Discount is based on multiples of the federal poverty guidelines. Uninsured patients who do not qualify for charity care get an Uninsured Discount, and a Catastrophic Care Discount may apply when a bill is large compared to income. Call the Business Office at 256-494-4513 with questions about your bill or paying for your care.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Etowah County Rural Transportation gives rides you schedule by phone. A one-way trip costs $6.00 and a round trip costs $8.00, paid with exact fare. A personal care assistant rides free. Call the Rural Transportation Office at 256-547-1014, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and tell the scheduler your address, destination, appointment time, and any help you need. Cancel at least one hour before pickup.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year