Senior benefits in Cheyenne County, Colorado

The East Central Area Agency on Aging, run by the East Central Council of Local Governments (ECCOG), serves older adults in Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson and Lincoln counties, including Cheyenne County. Local Senior Services Coordinators help with outreach, information and referral, long-term care ombudsman help, and links to meals, in-home help and transportation, so older adults can stay in their own homes. Call ECCOG at 719-348-5562.

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

Colorado's Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) helps pay part of winter heating costs. Residents of Cheyenne County can get a LEAP application or help applying from the Cheyenne County Department of Human Services. The state LEAP page says applications are taken November 1 through April 30. Call 719-767-5629, or apply online through Colorado PEAK.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,000 a year

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Cheyenne County can apply for financial assistance at Keefe Memorial Hospital in Cheyenne Wells for emergency and medically necessary care. Under Colorado's Hospital Discounted Care law, patients with household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines can have their hospital bills limited and get an income-based payment plan. Call 719-767-5661 for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Outback Express, run by the East Central Council of Local Governments, is a public dial-a-ride system for Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson and Lincoln counties, including Cheyenne County. Anyone who needs a ride can use it. Wheelchair-accessible vans go to senior meal sites, shopping and errands, and medical appointments — including long trips to Denver or Colorado Springs. Call 719-348-5562; 24 hours' notice is appreciated.

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