Senior benefits in Reno County, Kansas

The South Central Kansas Area Agency on Aging (SCKAAA), based in Arkansas City, serves Reno County. Its local office is the Reno County Department of Aging in Hutchinson, phone 620-694-2910 (toll free 1-888-458-2911). 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 Hutchinson at 1700 E. 11th Ave., phone 620-663-5731. 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

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center (HRMC) in Hutchinson offers financial assistance to patients who cannot pay for emergency and medically necessary care. It is for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. HRMC looks at your income (using Federal Poverty Level guidelines), family size, insurance and the care you need, and may cover part or all of your bill. You must turn in tax returns, bank statements and pay stubs, and also apply for any other help you may qualify for. Get the policy and application at any front desk of the hospital or from the HRMC website, or call Patient Accounts at 620-665-2024, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Reno County Area Transit (RCAT) is open to the general public for any trip purpose. Fixed-route buses in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson cost 50 cents per ride, per bus, exact fare only. Demand-response rides cost $2.00 per ride within Hutchinson and South Hutchinson and $4.00 per ride in the rest of Reno County. Paratransit service is available by application; call the RCAT Customer Service Center at 620-694-2913 to ask about it. Ride tickets are sold at the Transfer Station, 120 W. Ave B, Hutchinson. The office is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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