Senior benefits in Rockingham County, Virginia

Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is the Area Agency on Aging for Rockingham County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels and VPAS Cafes, senior transportation (60+), caregiver support, Medicare consultation (VICAP), information and assistance, one-time emergency financial help, ombudsman, Senior Cool Care, and Farm Market Fresh vouchers. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-949-7141 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Rockingham County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Dept. 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 Rockingham County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Sentara RMH Medical Center for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital (Harrisonburg, surrounded by Rockingham County); serves both Rockingham County and Harrisonburg City. Free care at or below 300% FPL with under $50,000 in available assets; 80% discount at 300-400% FPL per the facility FAP page.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Rockingham 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 $90,000 or less. Real estate and manufactured home exemption for owners 65+ (or permanently and totally disabled) occupying the property as sole dwelling; the main /296 page states the same $50,000 / $90,000 limits for both the elderly and the disabled programs. No percentage brackets published on the page. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) Senior Transportation serves Rockingham County with Demand-response senior rides (pre-screening application and advance notice required; no formal fee, donations suggested) covering Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. There is no county-wide public transit in rural Rockingham; HDPT (city dept.) fixed routes and HB Access ADA paratransit operate within Harrisonburg city limits, currently fare-free (see Harrisonburg City entry). 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 1-540-383-6855 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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