Benefits · Missouri

Senior benefits in Stoddard County, Missouri

4

Local programs

16

Missouri programs

25

Federal programs

18

Categories

Local starting point

Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging) — Missouri Area Agency on Aging network (DHSS Senior and Disability Services)

1-800-392-8771

See which of these Stoddard County programs you may qualify for.

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Programs run in Stoddard County

Run by the county, its Area Agency on Aging, or another agency serving Stoddard County. Start here.

Elder Services

Programs here are typically worth $500–$6,000 a year to an eligible household.

Area Agency on Aging (Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging)) — Stoddard

County

Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Stoddard County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Congregate and home-delivered meals through the Dexter, Malden and Puxico senior centers, 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.

$500–$6,000/yr

How to apply →Official source →1-800-392-8771Last verified · August 24, 2026

Energy Assistance

Programs here are typically worth $300–$1,000 a year to an eligible household.

Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) — Stoddard

County

Missouri's Energy Assistance and Energy Crisis Intervention programs (LIHEAP) help income-eligible households in Stoddard County pay heating and cooling bills and resolve utility emergencies. The DSS Family Support Division funds the program, and Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation (DAEOC) takes applications for this county. Winter and summer components run on their own seasons while funds last. Call 1-573-931-8400 to apply.

$300–$1,000/yr

How to apply →Official source →1-573-931-8400Last verified · August 24, 2026

Healthcare

Hospital Financial Assistance (Mercy Hospital Stoddard, Dexter) — Stoddard

County

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Stoddard County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Mercy Hospital Stoddard, Dexter for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital at 1200 N. One Mile Road, Dexter, MO 63841 (formerly Southeast Health Center of Stoddard County). Financial assistance is administered system-wide by Mercy. Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston (https://www.missouridelta.com/patient-resources/financial-assistance) is the nearest alternative.

How to apply →Official source →1-573-755-2302Last verified · August 24, 2026

Transportation

Programs here are typically worth $150–$1,500 a year to an eligible household.

Senior & Disabled Transit (Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS, Inc.)) — Stoddard

County

Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS, Inc.) serves Stoddard County with Door-to-door demand-response plus local and long-distance routes; office hours Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Dexter office at 1010 Wildwood Drive, which covers Stoddard, New Madrid and Pemiscot counties.. 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 1-573-624-8624 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

$150–$1,500/yr

How to apply →Official source →1-573-624-8624Last verified · August 24, 2026

Missouri and federal programs

Open to eligible households in Stoddard County and across the rest of Missouri. Full details are on the Missouri benefits page.

Income Support

Veteran Benefits

← All Missouri counties

Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.