Senior benefits in Kent County, Michigan

The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan serves older adults in Kent County. Services include home-delivered and congregate meals, in-home and personal care, caregiver support, Medicare/Medicaid counseling (MMAP), long-term care options counseling, and help applying for the MI Choice waiver. Adults age 60 and over, and adults with disabilities, can call 1-888-456-5664 to ask what help is available.

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

Kent County Community Action helps Kent County residents with gas, electric, water/sewer, and deliverable-fuel bills and shutoff protection whenever funding is available. Apply for state energy help through MI Bridges, dial 211 for local referrals, or call Kent County Community Action at 616-632-7950.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,500 a year

Corewell Health West runs the major hospitals in Kent County, including Butterworth and Blodgett in Grand Rapids. They offer financial assistance for emergency and medically necessary care. Free care is available for Michigan residents with household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, with sliding-scale discounts up to 400%. Ask any financial counselor or call 1-833-261-4563 to apply.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Rapid runs fixed-route buses across Grand Rapids and nearby Kent County cities, plus GO!Bus curb-to-curb paratransit for riders who cannot use the regular bus. Riders age 65 and over, people with disabilities, and Medicare card holders qualify for reduced fares with a Rapid reduced-fare ID. Call 616-456-6141 to apply or to set up GO!Bus rides.

Estimated service value: $200–$1,500 a year

In this county: Reduced fares require a Rapid reduced-fare ID. GO!Bus paratransit requires an eligibility application. Fares and service rules are set by The Rapid and can change. Not legal or financial advice.