Senior benefits in Lenoir County, North Carolina

The Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging serves older adults age 60 and older and their caregivers in Lenoir 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 adult protective services coordination. Call the Area Agency on Aging to learn 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 Lenoir 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

UNC Health Lenoir in Kinston is the main hospital serving Lenoir County. Through the UNC Health financial assistance (charity care) policy, North Carolina residents with household income at or below the published threshold can have medically necessary care reduced or forgiven. Patients may apply before their first visit through My UNC Chart, submit documents online, or speak with a financial navigator.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Helps at-risk adults 60 and older in Lenoir County stay housed. The program can assist with rent and rental deposits, utilities and utility deposits, mortgage payments, property taxes, accessibility ramps, basic household furnishings, and minor home repairs. It is an extension of the Housing and Home Improvement Program, intended to reduce and prevent homelessness among older adults. To apply, contact Catholic Charities at (252) 497-3482, or the Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging at (252) 638-3185.

Lenoir County Transit is the county's public transportation system, based in Kinston. Older adults and people with disabilities enrolled in the Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program ride at a reduced fare, about three dollars each way within Lenoir County. Riders must reserve a trip by 1 p.m. at least one business day ahead. Call the transportation department to register and schedule rides.

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

In this county: Lenoir: Elderly and Disabled program riders pay about $3 each way within Lenoir County (more for out-of-county trips); reserve at least one business day ahead.