Senior benefits in Galax City, Virginia

District Three Governmental Cooperative (District Three Senior Services) is the Area Agency on Aging for the City of Galax. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to PSA 3 AAA serving Bland, Bristol City, Carroll, Galax City, Grayson, Smyth, Washington, and Wythe. Home-delivered meals and Friendship Cafe congregate meals, homemaker and chore services, care management, respite, medical transportation for seniors via Mountain Lynx Transit, caregiver support, VICAP Medicare insurance counseling, and ombudsman services. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-276-783-8157 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in the City of Galax pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Galax City 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 the City of Galax can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Twin County Regional Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-city hospital at 200 Hospital Drive, Galax. FAP provides free or discounted care for uninsured patients requiring emergency or medically necessary care, measured by gross family income against the Federal Poverty Guidelines; financial counselors at 276-238-2534.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Mountain Lynx Transit (District Three Governmental Cooperative) serves the City of Galax with Galax has Mountain Lynx fixed-route loops plus demand-response routes ('Fixed-route loops and demand-response routes serve Abingdon, Marion, Wytheville, and Galax'). Rides are currently fare-free, so no senior fare tier exists. Galax office toll-free: 866-238-4293. 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 1-276-236-3055 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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