Senior benefits in Pulaski County, Virginia

New River Valley Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Pulaski County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Care coordination, congregate and home-delivered meals, homemaker services, medical transportation, respite care, legal services, ombudsman, and VICAP Medicare counseling for adults 60+; the agency is headquartered in Pulaski (44 Third St NW). Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-980-7720 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Pulaski County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Pulaski County 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 Pulaski County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at LewisGale Hospital Pulaski for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital: LewisGale Hospital Pulaski, 2400 Lee Hwy, Pulaski, VA 24301. HCA charity policy: 100% discount at 0-200% FPL; expanded assistance 201-400% FPL for balances over $1,500.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Pulaski County offers real estate tax relief for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently and totally disabled. The income and net-worth limits are set by local ordinance and are not published online — call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 540-980-7750 for the current figures and an application. Forms are filed with the Commissioner of the Revenue between January 1 and April 1.

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

Pulaski Area Transit serves Pulaski County with Fixed-route service in the Town of Pulaski ($0.75/one-way; no senior discount published) plus $1.50 demand-response and ADA complementary paratransit. Fare-free CTGo on-demand service also covers county riders 65+ or disabled (nrvcs.org/ctgo, 540-831-4020). 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 1-540-980-5040 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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