Senior benefits in Harnett County, North Carolina

The Mid-Carolina Area Agency on Aging serves adults age 60 and older and their caregivers in Harnett County. Services include congregate and home-delivered meals, family caregiver support and respite, the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) for Medicare counseling, options counseling for long-term care, the long-term care ombudsman, and links to in-home and adult day services. Call the Area Agency on Aging to find out what is available locally.

Estimated service value: $1,000–$6,000 a year

North Carolina's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) gives a one-time payment toward heating costs, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when a household faces a heating or cooling emergency. Both are run by the Harnett County Department of Social Services. Households with an older adult (60+) or a person with a disability can apply starting December 1; other eligible households apply starting in January, until funds run out. Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, by phone, or at the county DSS office.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,500 a year

Cape Fear Valley Betsy Johnson Hospital in Dunn and Central Harnett Hospital in Lillington, both part of Cape Fear Valley Health, serve Harnett County. Cape Fear Valley Health gives full charity (free) care to patients whose household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, and a sliding-scale discount of 25% to 75% for income between 201% and 500% of the federal poverty guidelines. Ask for a financial assistance application or call the financial assistance office.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Harnett Area Rural Transit System (HARTS) is the county community transportation system serving Harnett County with shared-ride, door-to-door trips for medical, general, and personal needs. The Council on Aging program funds transportation for residents age 60 and older, and the Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP) funds trips for older adults and people with disabilities. Rides must be booked at least two business days in advance. Call HARTS to set up a trip or ask about senior and disability fares.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

In this county: Harnett: HARTS Council on Aging trips serve residents 60+; EDTAP serves older adults and people with disabilities and may require a referral. Book at least two business days ahead.