Senior benefits in York County, South Carolina

Help for grandparents and other relatives age 55 or older in York County who are raising a child 18 or younger. The child must live with you, and you must be the only one responsible for the child's care and money needs, around the clock. It is part of the Catawba Family Caregiver Support Program, which can help with stress, emotional support, caregiver skills, community resources, supplies, and limited money help when you qualify. Call the Catawba Area Agency on Aging at 803-329-9670 or toll-free 1-800-662-8330.

The Catawba Area Agency on Aging serves Chester, Lancaster, Union and York counties, including York County. It helps adults 60 and over, adults with a physical disability, family members, and anyone looking for in-home services — caregiver support, Medicare counseling, long-term care ombudsman help for nursing home residents, and referrals to local resources. Help is free. Call 803-329-9670 or toll-free 1-800-662-8330.

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

South Carolina's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay heating and cooling bills. In York County, applications are taken by Carolina Community Actions, which serves Chester, Fairfield, Lancaster, Union and York counties. Households with an older or disabled member get priority. Call the York County office in Rock Hill at 803-366-5537, or start an application online; a staff member will contact you for an interview.

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

Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill offers charity care to patients who cannot pay hospital bills and do not qualify for government programs. Patients may qualify if household income is below 200% of the federal poverty level. You will need to fill out a confidential financial application and show proof of your finances. Call the Financial Assistance Center at 888-233-7868, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific time. Uninsured patients may also get an uninsured discount.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

York County Access, run by the York County Council on Aging with York County and the City of Rock Hill, gives rides countywide to the doctor, pharmacy, grocery store, and treatment such as dialysis or chemotherapy. It runs Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fare is $2.50 each way. Schedule at least 48 hours ahead by calling 803-327-6694, extension 2. Clover residents should call 1-866-607-1910.

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