Senior benefits in Chambers County, Alabama

The East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (EARPDC) runs the Area Agency on Aging for 10 counties in east Alabama, including Chambers County. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Programs include senior centers and meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, Medicaid Waiver in-home help, SHIP Medicare counseling, SenioRx prescription help, legal help for older adults, the long-term care ombudsman, and senior jobs. Call 256-237-6741 or 1-800-239-6741, or the Alabama Ageline at 1-800-243-5463.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Chambers County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Committee of Chambers-Tallapoosa-Coosa. Household income must not be more than 150% of the federal poverty level, and the program targets older adults, people with disabilities, and young children. Call 256-825-4287 to ask how to apply or to check on an application. ADECA, the state office, does not take applications. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $280–$1,100 a year

EAMC-Lanier Rural Emergency Hospital in Valley gives 24-hour emergency and outpatient care to Chambers County. It is part of East Alabama Health, whose financial assistance program can range from charity care to help paying medical bills for patients without insurance or who cannot pay in full. You can also apply for an uninsured discount. Call 334-528-1275 to request an application or talk with a representative, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Chambers County does not have a countywide public transit system. The Chambers County Commission provides rides for senior citizens in Five Points, Huguley, and LaFayette, with wheelchair lifts (call 334-864-2491). The City of Lanett transit bus serves senior citizens in Lanett, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (334-644-4316 or 334-644-4317). The City of Valley Senior Center gives rides to its senior center clients (334-756-5228). Medicaid members can get help with rides to medical visits through Medicaid's Non-Emergency Transportation program (334-502-5468).

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