Senior benefits in Petersburg City, Virginia

Crater District Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for the City of Petersburg. 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. Headquartered in Petersburg (23 Seyler Dr.). 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 the City of Petersburg pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Petersburg 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 Petersburg 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. In-city hospital: 200 Medical Park Blvd, Petersburg, VA 23805 (formerly Southside Regional Medical Center, acquired by Bon Secours). FAP: 100% assistance at or below 200% FPG; discounted rate 201-400% FPG; Southside Medical Center explicitly listed as covered.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) serves the City of Petersburg with City fixed-route bus system plus ADA paratransit. Regular fare $1.75; reduced fare $0.85 for seniors, persons with disabilities, veterans and Medicare card holders (reduced-fare ID for riders 65+); service is currently fare-free system-wide. 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 1-804-324-5658 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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