Senior benefits in Berkshire County, Massachusetts

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is the Area Agency on Aging for Berkshire County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Home care, nutrition programs (Meals on Wheels/congregate), options counseling, money management, housing programs, long-term care ombudsman, behavioral health outreach, community transition liaison program, volunteer programs. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-413-499-0524 to get started.

Estimated service value: $500–$6,000 a year

Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Berkshire County pay home heating bills from November 1 through April 30, with extra protection against winter shut-offs. The Commonwealth funds the program, and Berkshire Community Action Council, Inc. (BCAC) takes applications for this county. Homeowners and renters can qualify, including renters whose heat is included in rent. Call 1-413-445-4503 to apply.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Berkshire County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Berkshire Medical Center for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Page's Financial Assistance Information section: 'If you have medical bills because you did not have insurance, you may qualify for financial assistance... Contact our Advocacy for Access program at 413-445-9480'; the program also helps patients apply for MassHealth, ConnectorCare, and Health Safety Net (formerly Free Care) benefits, including Health Safety Net Medical Hardship. The statewide Health Safety Net is cited separately at the state level. The 2026 BHS Financial Assistance Policy PDF is linked from this page.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA) serves Berkshire County with BRTA is fare-free systemwide through June 30, 2027, including ADA paratransit, non-ADA paratransit, and the Senior Rural Transportation Program (per the 2026-06-01 notice at https://berkshirerta.gov/2026/06/01/brta-fare-free-for-non-ada-and-senior-rural-programs/). When fares are in effect, reduced fares are available to 'People ages 60 and older.' Site moved from berkshirerta.com to berkshirerta.gov. Older adults and people with disabilities can use reduced fares or demand-response rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential trips. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service. Call 1-413-499-2782 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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