Senior benefits in Reynolds County, Missouri

Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Reynolds County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Congregate and home-delivered meals through the Ellington senior center, family caregiver support, in-home services, long-term care ombudsman, Medicare/benefits information and assistance, and coordination of contracted transportation. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-800-392-8771 to get started.

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

Missouri's Energy Assistance and Energy Crisis Intervention programs (LIHEAP) help income-eligible households in Reynolds County pay heating and cooling bills and resolve utility emergencies. The DSS Family Support Division funds the program, and South Central Missouri Community Action Agency (SCMCAA) takes applications for this county. Winter and summer components run on their own seasons while funds last. Call 573-415-3199 to apply.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Reynolds County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Iron County Medical Center, Pilot Knob for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Reynolds County has no operating hospital (Wikipedia's Missouri hospital list still shows a former Reynolds County General Memorial Hospital in Ellington). Iron County Medical Center in Pilot Knob is the nearest hospital to the Centerville/Ellington area; Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center (https://www.pbrmc.com/financial-assistance-program) is the alternative to the south. Nearest-hospital choice is a judgment call, not a cited fact.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS, Inc.) serves Reynolds County with Door-to-door demand-response plus local and long-distance routes; office hours Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Reynolds County has no separate SMTS office on the service-area office list; the county page routes riders to the Poplar Bluff numbers. Older adults and people with disabilities can use these services for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential trips. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service. Call 573-785-2928 or 800-392-0754 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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