Senior benefits in Cowley County, Kansas

The South Central Kansas Area Agency on Aging (SCKAAA), based in Arkansas City, serves Cowley County. Its local office is the Cowley County Council on Aging in Winfield, phone 620-221-7020 (toll free 877-491-3984). SCKAAA offers case management, help at home such as personal care, homemaker, respite and chore services, information and referrals, and help for family caregivers and grandparents raising grandchildren. Friendship Meals are served at meal sites or delivered to people who are homebound, for people 60 and older and their spouses; call 24 hours ahead to reserve a meal. Call the county office or SCKAAA toll free at 1-800-362-0264.

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

The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) lists a service center in Winfield at 122 W. 19th Ave., phone 620-221-6400. DCF runs Food Assistance (SNAP), cash assistance and the winter LIEAP energy program. You can apply online at any time through the DCF Self-Service Portal. Paper Food Assistance applications are available at your local DCF Service Center, or call toll free 1-888-369-4777. During the LIEAP application period, you can apply online or ask your local DCF Service Center for a paper application for help with home heating costs.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

William Newton Hospital in Winfield serves all patients, and no one is denied care because they cannot pay. It has a sliding fee discount based on family size and income for people who are uninsured, underinsured or otherwise unable to pay for medically necessary care. If your household income is at or below 120% of the federal poverty guidelines, you may owe nothing on your share of the bill. Between 120% and 200%, the discount ranges from 10% to 99%. Fill out the Financial Assistance Application (English or Spanish) and send the papers it asks for. For help, call the Credit/Collections Department at 620-222-6296 or 620-222-6240.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Cowley County Council on Aging runs a curb-to-curb shuttle bus for all citizens of Cowley and Chautauqua Counties. Rides cost $2.00 per person within city limits and $5.00 outside city limits (Tuesday and Thursday). Trips to Wichita cost $25.00 one way or $35.00 round trip (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday). A $20.00 punch card gives 13 punches. Service runs Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to a last pick-up at 4:30 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to a last pick-up at 1:30 p.m. Call 620-221-7020 or 1-877-491-3984 to schedule, ideally 24 hours ahead. Buses with wheelchair lifts are available.

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