Senior benefits in Dinwiddie County, Virginia

Crater District Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Dinwiddie County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Nutrition program (home-delivered meals and senior-center meals), door-to-door senior transportation for an income-based fee, homemaker in-home assistance, case management, VICAP insurance counseling, long-term-care ombudsman, Senior Medicare Patrol, and health education across Planning District 19. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-804-732-7020 to get started.

Estimated service value: $500–$6,000 a year

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Dinwiddie County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Dinwiddie Department of Social Services, online at CommonHelp, or by phone at 1-855-635-4370. Cooling Assistance requires a household member who is 60 or older, has a disability, or is a child under 6. Fuel Assistance applications are taken each fall and Cooling Assistance each summer, while funds last.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Dinwiddie County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Bon Secours Southside Medical Center for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. No in-county hospital; nearest is Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, 200 Medical Park Blvd, Petersburg (adjacent county seat area, ~10-20 miles from most of Dinwiddie). Bon Secours FAP: 100% assistance at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines; discounted rates 201-400% FPG; Southside Medical Center is explicitly listed as covered.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Dinwiddie County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $50,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $150,000 or less. Real-estate tax relief for owners 65+ or permanently and totally disabled. Net-worth limit excludes the residence and five acres. Renewal applications are filed February 1 - April 1; first-time filers may apply anytime through December 31. A separate personal-property relief program uses a $30,000 income / $75,000 net-worth limit. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$3,000 a year

Blackstone Area Bus System (BABS) — Dinwiddie Express serves Dinwiddie County with Fixed route 'Dinwiddie Express' serving Dinwiddie County and the town of McKenney, Monday-Friday 5:50 AM - 6:05 PM, $1.00 fare. No senior reduced fare is published. CDAAA also provides door-to-door senior transportation (https://cdaaa.org/transportation). Older adults and people with disabilities can use reduced fares or demand-response rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential trips. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service. Call 1-434-292-3025 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year