Senior benefits in Henry County, Virginia

Southern Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Henry County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Area Agency on Aging (PSA 12), based in Martinsville. Home-delivered meals and senior cafes, in-home personal care, transportation, respite/caregiver support, insurance counseling, ombudsman. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-276-632-6442 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Henry County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Henry-Martinsville 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 Henry County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Sovah Health - Martinsville for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Hospital is in Martinsville City, which is surrounded by Henry County (effectively in-county access). Charity Care Program: uninsured patients with household income at or below the Federal Poverty Level may receive discounted or free care.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Henry County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $24,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $50,000 or less. For owners 65+ or totally and permanently disabled as of Jan. 1 of the assessing year. Annual reapplication with income and asset documentation; application due May 1 of the assessing year. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Piedmont Area Regional Transit (PART), operated by RADAR serves Henry County with Deviated fixed-route service (North County, Martinsville, South County routes), Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:30pm; base fare $0.50 but fares are currently suspended (fare-free); ADA-compliant buses with route deviations up to 0.75 miles for qualified riders. 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 1-800-964-5707 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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