Senior benefits in Palo Pinto County, Texas

Palo Pinto County's energy bill help (CEAP) is run by Texas Neighborhood Services (TNS) in Weatherford. It helps pay electric, natural gas and propane bills and teaches ways to keep energy costs down. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. Apply through the TNS online Utility Assistance Portal, or send the paper application by email (application@txns.org), by mail, or drop it in the lock box at 522 Palo Pinto Street, Weatherford. Call 817-598-5700 or the TDHCA CEAP line at 800-525-0657.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,600 a year

Palo Pinto County operates a referral-and-coordination emergency aid framework. Emergency needs are addressed through: (1) CEAP subrecipient for utility assistance; (2) NCTCOG AAA for senior services (800-272-3921); (3) Palo Pinto County CIHCP for healthcare (940-659-1200); (4) United Way of Metropolitan Dallas / 211 for general referrals; (5) faith-based partners (Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, local churches).

Estimated bill savings: $200–$2,500 a year

The Palo Pinto County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) is required by Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 61 for low-income residents who don't qualify for other state or federal healthcare programs. Eligibility: Palo Pinto County resident age 18+; household income less than 21% of the Federal Poverty Level (the Texas statutory minimum); not Medicaid-eligible. CIHCP covers physician services, lab/x-ray, three prescriptions per month, and inpatient/outpatient hospital services through participating providers. PRIMARY HOSPITALS: Palo Pinto General Hospital (Mineral Wells). Apply by calling Palo Pinto County at 940-659-1200.

Estimated bill savings: $1,200–$22,000 a year

In this county: Palo Pinto CIHCP. Palo Pinto General Hospital (Mineral Wells).

NCTCOG serves Palo Pinto County seniors age 60+ and their family caregivers. NCTCOG AAA delivers Direct Services (Benefits Counseling, Care Coordination, Long-term Care Ombudsman, Nursing Home Relocation) plus Contract Services (Home-Delivered Meals, Congregate Meals, Transportation, Healthy Living Workshops). The agency does not charge for its services but encourages voluntary contributions. Apply by calling NCTCOG AAA at 800-272-3921. Office: 616 Six Flags Drive (Centerpoint Two), Arlington TX 76011.

Estimated service value: $1,500–$5,000 a year

Public transit serving Palo Pinto County: Cross Timbers Rural Transit District provides demand-response service. Seniors AGE 60+ typically qualify for reduced or free fares depending on the operator. Demand-response service requires advance reservations (typically 24-48 hours). For specific schedule, route, and fare information call 254-893-2222.

Estimated service value: $300–$2,400 a year