Senior benefits in Colleton County, South Carolina

The Lowcountry Area Agency on Aging, part of the Lowcountry Council of Governments, serves older adults in Colleton County and the rest of the region (Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties). Its information, referral and assistance specialists help older adults and caregivers find local services and link them to help. Other programs include SHIP insurance counseling, home and community based services, family caregiver support, long-term care ombudsman help and legal assistance. Call toll-free 877-846-8148.

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

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Colleton County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Lowcountry Community Action Agency. Contact the Walterboro office at 1605 North Jefferies Highway at 843-549-5576 to ask how to apply. Bring proof of income and a current energy bill in an adult household member's name. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

HCA Healthcare Colleton Hospital in Walterboro may give financial relief for non-elective care to patients who do not qualify for state or federal help. In most cases, patients with household income from 0 to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level get a 100% charity discount. Patients with balances over $1,500 and income between 201 and 400 percent may get a reduced bill. Call the hospital billing department at 877-782-2620.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Palmetto Breeze runs public buses in Colleton County. Route 429 Walterboro Works circulates in Walterboro, and Route 320 runs from Ruffin and Walterboro to Hilton Head Island for commuters. Riders with disabilities who are certified can use Easy Breeze door-to-door paratransit inside Walterboro city limits. Call the Dispatch Center at 843-757-5782, option 1.

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