Senior benefits in Santa Cruz County, Arizona

The SEAGO Area Agency on Aging Region VI serves adults age 60 and over and adults with disabilities in Santa Cruz County. Services include home-delivered and congregate meals, case management, in-home support, family caregiver support, Medicare and health insurance counseling, legal help, and the long-term care ombudsman. Call 520-432-2528 to ask what help is available.

Estimated service value: $1,500–$6,000 a year

The Southeastern Arizona Community Action Program (SEACAP) delivers the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for Santa Cruz County. It helps income-eligible households pay heating and cooling bills and can help with a water bill through a related program. Apply through your local Community Action Agency; call 1-800-293-1144 for required documents and to schedule.

Estimated bill savings: $160–$640 a year

Carondelet Holy Cross Hospital in Nogales is the only inpatient hospital in Santa Cruz County. Its financial assistance program offers Charity Care to households with income below 200% of the federal poverty limit, plus uninsured discounts, for patients who cannot afford care. You fill out a confidential Financial Application and the hospital asks for documents to verify your circumstances. Call the Financial Assistance Center at 1-888-233-7868 or ask a patient advocate for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Charity care may be available to households with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, per the hospital's financial assistance program; uninsured discounts also apply. The hospital makes the final determination. Not legal or financial advice.

Nogales Rides is the City of Nogales demand-response transportation service for senior citizens, people with disabilities, and people with special needs. Rides run Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, and only within the Nogales city limits; residents elsewhere in Santa Cruz County are not covered. The two boxcar vehicles are wheelchair accessible and drivers help riders board and secure wheelchairs, walkers, or oxygen; service is offered in English and Spanish. There is no fee, though a $1 donation is encouraged. Call 520-285-5757 at least 24 to 48 hours ahead to schedule a trip.

Estimated service value: about $0 a year

In this county: Nogales Rides is a curb-to-curb service for older adults and riders with disabilities; service is provided within the Nogales city limits only, trips must be reserved ahead and depend on availability. The City makes the final determination. Not legal or financial advice.