Senior benefits in Clackamas County, Oregon

Clackamas County Social Services helps seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and low-income residents of Clackamas County. Services for older adults include the Aging and Disability Resource Connection, family caregiver support, Oregon Project Independence, money management, Medicare counseling (SHIBA), energy help, and rides. Call the Clackamas Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 503-650-5622.

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

Clackamas County's Utility Support Program helps low-income residents pay for heating (electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, wood, or pellets) and electric cooling. Heating help opens in October for seniors (60+) and households with a disabled or medically fragile member, then for all income-eligible households in December, running to April 15 or as funds allow. Cooling help opens in May for seniors (60+) and disabled or medically fragile households, then in June for everyone, running to September 15 or as funds allow. Call 503-650-5640 or request an application online; the county mails an application with a prepaid return envelope.

Estimated bill savings: $250–$1,750 a year

Patients without health insurance, or with insurance but unable to pay their out-of-pocket costs, can apply for free or low-cost care at Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center in Oregon City. Providence's Oregon policy says patients with family income at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level will generally be eligible for a discount, and help can cover up to 100% of the cost of emergency and medically necessary care. Approval lasts up to 1 year. Call a financial counselor at 1-855-229-6466.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

RideWise teaches people how to ride buses and trains safely and on their own. A trainer can make a trip plan with you and practice the route with you one-on-one, or you can join a guided group trip. Training is free for adults 65 or older, people with disabilities, and English language learners who live in Clackamas, Multnomah, or Washington County, including Clackamas County. Call Ride Connection at 503-226-0700 or email ridewise@rideconnection.org to get started.

Estimated service value: about $0 a year

Transportation Reaching People (TRP) gives free rides to Clackamas County residents who are 65 or older or have a disability and have limited transportation options. Rides go to medical appointments (in the Tri-County area), grocery stores (2-bag limit), and other essential errands. Vehicles are ADA accessible. Riders must be able to get on and off with little help or bring an escort. Call 503-655-8208 and select option 3 to enroll.

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