Senior benefits in Fannin County, Texas

Fannin County operates a referral-and-coordination emergency aid framework: (1) TCOG Community Services for CEAP utility, weatherization, and housing (903-893-2161); (2) TCOG AAA for senior services (903-893-2161); (3) Fannin County CIHCP for healthcare (903-583-7459); (4) TCOG Rural Transit for transportation (903-893-2161); (5) Catholic Charities of Texoma; (6) Salvation Army of Sherman. Dial 211 for general referrals.

Estimated bill savings: $100–$1,800 a year

Fannin County's CEAP is delivered directly by TCOG Community Services. TCOG provides utility bill payment assistance for electricity, gas, and propane; energy crisis assistance; weatherization; and energy education. Eligibility at 150% FPL. Apply at tcog.com or by calling TCOG at 903-893-2161, or dial 211.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,600 a year

The Fannin County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) is required by Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 61. Eligibility: Fannin County resident age 18+; household income less than 21% of the Federal Poverty Level; not Medicaid-eligible. PRIMARY HOSPITAL: TMC Bonham Hospital (Texoma Medical Center Bonham campus) and VA North Texas Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center. Wilson N. Jones Regional Medical Center and Texoma Medical Center (both in Grayson County) are the regional tertiary referral hospitals — both have Patient Financial Assistance Programs (typically 200% FPL or broader). Apply by calling Fannin County at 903-583-7459.

Estimated bill savings: $1,000–$18,000 a year

In this county: Fannin CIHCP at 21% FPL — very strict. TMC Bonham Hospital (Texoma Medical Center Bonham campus) and VA North Texas Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center. Wilson N. Jones + Texoma Medical Center (Sherman/Denison) are regional tertiary referrals.

TCOG AAA serves Fannin County seniors age 60+ and their caregivers as part of the 3-county Texoma region. Services include Title III Congregate Meals + Home-Delivered Meals, Benefits Counseling (HICAP/SHIP Medicare), Care Coordination, Caregiver Support, In-Home Support, and Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Apply by calling TCOG AAA at 903-813-3505 or 800-677-8264.

Estimated service value: $1,200–$4,500 a year

TAPS Get-a-Ride gives shared, curb-to-curb rides to the general public in Fannin County and the rest of the 6-county TAPS area. Seniors 60+ and riders with disabilities pay a reduced one-way fare of $1 in town, $1.50 out of town and $2 out of county (general public pays $2, $3 and $4). Book at least 48 business hours ahead, Monday–Friday 7am–3pm, at 844-603-6048.

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