Senior benefits in Pottawatomie County, Kansas

The North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA) serves older Kansans, people living with disabilities, and family caregivers in Pottawatomie County and 17 other counties, with offices in Manhattan, Salina and Emporia. Friendship Meals are served at dining centers or delivered to homebound people age 60 and older, their spouses and disabled dependents, after a Kansas Uniform Assessment; the suggested voluntary contribution is $4.00 a meal. Other help includes long-term home care planning, free Medicare counseling (SHICK), help applying for Extra Help with drug costs, Senior Farmers Market coupons (a one-time $50 a year for people 60 and older who meet income limits), job help for people 55 and older, Section 8 housing vouchers, fall-prevention classes and a monthly caregiver call. Call 785-776-9294 or toll free 800-432-2703.

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

There is no Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) service center in Pottawatomie County. DCF lists Pottawatomie County in its Northeast Region; the nearest Northeast Region service centers are in Hiawatha (Brown County), Marysville (Marshall County) and Topeka (Shawnee County). Kansas DCF handles Food Assistance (SNAP), Cash Assistance, Child Care Assistance and Utilities & Energy Assistance. You can apply online through the DCF self-service portal or call the DCF Benefits Assistance line at 1-888-369-4777.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Wamego Health Center is covered by the Ascension Via Christi financial assistance policy for people who live in Riley, Pottawatomie or Geary County. With household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, you may get 100% charity care on the part of the bill you owe. From 251% to 399%, you may get a 75% to 85% write-off. Large assets can affect eligibility. Apply online or by mail within 240 days of your first bill. For hospital bills and financial assistance, call 800-298-8347.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Pottawatomie County General Public Transportation gives rides across the county for medical visits, groceries, banking, social services and recreation. On scheduled days it also goes to Manhattan and Topeka. Book at least one day ahead by calling 877-728-0433. The suggested donation is $1 for local trips in Wamego and St. Marys and up to $5 for trips to Manhattan or Topeka.

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