Senior benefits in Wilkes County, North Carolina

The High Country Area Agency on Aging, part of the High Country Council of Governments (Region D), serves older adults in Wilkes County. Help includes home-delivered and congregate meals, in-home aide and personal care, family caregiver support and respite, Medicare counseling (SHIIP), options counseling for long-term care, and help applying for services. Adults age 60 and over, and adults with disabilities, can call 828-265-5434 to learn what local help is available.

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

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) gives a one-time yearly payment to help eligible households pay heating bills, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when a household faces a heating or cooling emergency. Both are run by the Wilkes County Department of Social Services. Households with an older adult (60+) or a person with a disability can apply early in the season. Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov or contact the Wilkes County DSS at 336-651-7400.

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

Wilkes Medical Center in North Wilkesboro is part of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. Atrium Health's financial assistance program gives 100% assistance to patients with household income at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines, and partial assistance from 301% to 400%. Patients can apply online, by mail, in person, or by calling 704-512-7171.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Atrium Health states 100% assistance at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines and partial assistance from 301-400%. Eligibility and final amounts are decided by the health system. Not legal or financial advice.

Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission (BROC) Senior Services makes minor repairs and safety improvements to the homes of Wilkes County residents age 60 and older who have no one able and willing to do the work for them. Depending on what the local provider offers, help can include security improvements, minor home repairs, ramps, grab bars and other accessibility changes, and repair or replacement of basic furnishings and appliances. Renters can qualify with written permission from the landlord. Help is limited to $7,000 per person each program year. Call Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission (BROC) Senior Services at 336-667-7174 to apply.

Estimated service value: $0–$7,000 a year

The Wilkes Transportation Authority is the public transit system for Wilkes County, focused on serving older adults, people with disabilities, and people with low income. It runs the in-town shuttle and rural demand-response trips for medical visits, shopping, and errands. Call 336-838-1272 to ask about rides, fares, and discounts for seniors and riders with disabilities.

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

In this county: Fares vary by service and location; senior and disability discounts may be grant-funded and decided case by case. Call WTA to confirm. Not legal or financial advice.