Senior benefits in Franklin County, Alabama

The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) is the Area Agency on Aging named by the Alabama Department of Senior Services for Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston counties, including Franklin County. It helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center is a single place to start, even if you do not know which program you need. Services include senior centers, meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, the long-term care ombudsman, senior jobs, SenioRx prescription help, SHIP Medicare counseling, and Medicaid Waiver in-home help. Call 256-389-0531 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 Franklin County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, and older adults and households with children get priority. Call 256-764-5142 to make an appointment, or call the Franklin County office at 256-332-7534. Walk-in utility applications are not taken. Help depends on available funds.

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

Russellville Hospital in Russellville has a Financial Assistance and Charity Care Policy for patients who need help paying for hospital care. Fill out the Financial Assistance Form on the hospital's website, or call the financial department at 256-331-4133 to talk about other options.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

NACOLG Dial-a-Ride is shared public transportation open to anyone. It takes riders from their pickup place to their destination in ADA-accessible vehicles. In Franklin County it serves the area within 10 miles of Russellville. Rides in rural parts of the county may be offered at a variable rate when vehicles and drivers are available. Rides run 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Book up to two weeks ahead, and no later than 3:00 p.m. the business day before. One-way fares start at $3; pay the driver with exact change. A personal care attendant may ride free. Call 256-314-0047 or toll-free 833-314-0047.

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