Senior benefits in Wayne County, Missouri

Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Wayne County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Congregate and home-delivered meals through the Williamsville 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.

$500–$6,000/yr

Missouri's Energy Assistance and Energy Crisis Intervention programs (LIHEAP) help income-eligible households in Wayne 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 1-800-325-4633 to apply.

$300–$1,000/yr

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Wayne County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, Poplar Bluff for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Wayne County has no hospital; Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, 3100 Oak Grove Rd, Poplar Bluff, is the nearest. Its FAP page states 'We offer a Charity Care Discount under our Financial Assistance Program to patients who qualify under our policy, based on multiples of the U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines'.

Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS, Inc.) serves Wayne County with Door-to-door demand-response plus local and long-distance routes; office hours Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Dispatched from the Poplar Bluff office (2510 Kanell Blvd.), which covers Butler, Carter and Wayne 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 573-785-2928 or 800-392-0754 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

$150–$1,500/yr