Senior benefits in Union County, North Carolina

The Centralina Area Agency on Aging serves adults age 60 and older and their caregivers in Union County. Services include congregate and home-delivered meals, family caregiver support and respite, the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) for Medicare counseling, options counseling for long-term care, the long-term care ombudsman, and links to in-home and adult day services. Call the Area Agency on Aging to find out what is available locally.

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

North Carolina's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) gives a one-time payment toward heating costs, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when a household faces a heating or cooling emergency. Both are run by the Union County Department of Social Services. Households with an older adult (60+) or a person with a disability who receive services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services can apply December 1–31; all other eligible households apply January 1 through March 31, or until funds run out. Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, or by email, fax, mail, or drop-off at the Union County Human Services Agency (2330 Concord Avenue, Monroe).

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,100 a year

Atrium Health Union in Monroe is the main hospital serving Union County. Atrium Health gives free care to patients with household income at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines, and an automatic 50% discount to uninsured patients. Apply by asking for a financial assistance application or calling the billing office.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Helps veterans of any age stay safely at home instead of in a long-term care facility. The veteran gets a monthly budget for long-term services and supports and can hire, schedule and supervise their own caregivers — family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Available to veterans enrolled in VA health care who meet the clinical criteria for long-term services and supports. To get started, talk to your social worker or primary care provider at your VA Medical Center; they confirm eligibility and start enrollment. Centralina Aging: 704-372-2416 or 1-800-508-5777.

Union County Transportation is the county's only public transit. It provides scheduled, curb-to-curb rides for all Union County residents age 16 and older, with special grant funding for seniors age 60 and older, adults with disabilities, Medicaid passengers and veterans. Many trip costs are covered by grant or county funds; riders may pay $2 for a one-way trip inside the county, and agency-sponsored clients ride free. Rides are by reservation, Monday through Friday, and must be booked at least 48 business hours ahead. Vehicles are wheelchair accessible, and the service can adjust its procedures to accommodate a rider's disability. Call to set up service.

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

In this county: Union: Union County Transportation serves residents by reservation at low or no cost; fares depend on the trip and funding source.