Senior benefits in Pender County, North Carolina

The Cape Fear Area Agency on Aging serves older adults age 60 and older and their family caregivers in Pender 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 aide and adult protective services. 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 Pender 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 January 1, 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

Pender Memorial Hospital in Burgaw, part of Novant Health, is the hospital serving Pender County. Novant Health offers financial assistance (charity care) for medically necessary services to patients who cannot afford to pay, plus uninsured discounts. Apply through MyChart, by mail, or by calling the financial assistance line at 1-844-266-8268, Option 3.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Pender Adult Services runs PAS-TRAN, the county's community transportation system, with lift-equipped vehicles. The Pender Connector route service is primarily for seniors age 65 and older and people with disabilities, with trips for medical appointments, shopping, and more. Rides are open to Pender County residents age 18 and older; reservations are required at least 48 hours ahead. Call 910-259-9119 to schedule a ride and confirm the fare.

Estimated service value: $200–$1,500 a year

In this county: Pender: PAS-TRAN serves Pender County residents age 18+; the Connector route service is aimed at seniors 65+ and riders with a disability. Fares are $3 one-way in-county and $8 one-way out-of-county.