Senior benefits in Kit Carson County, Colorado

The East Central Area Agency on Aging, run by the East Central Council of Local Governments (ECCOG), serves older adults in Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson and Lincoln counties, including Kit Carson County. Local Senior Services Coordinators help with outreach, information and referral, long-term care ombudsman help, and links to meals, in-home help and transportation, so older adults can stay in their own homes. Call ECCOG at 719-348-5562.

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

Colorado's Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) helps pay part of winter heating costs. Residents of Kit Carson County can get a LEAP application or help applying from the Kit Carson County Department of Human Services. The county Human Services page lists Low-Income Energy Assistance (LEAP) among its programs. Call 719-346-7158, or apply online through Colorado PEAK.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,000 a year

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Kit Carson County can apply for financial assistance at Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital in Burlington for emergency and medically necessary care. A financial counselor can explain the Financial Assistance Program and payment plans. Under Colorado's Hospital Discounted Care law, patients with household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines can have their hospital bills limited and get an income-based payment plan. Call 719-346-4790 for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Outback Express, run by the East Central Council of Local Governments, is a public dial-a-ride system for Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson and Lincoln counties, including Kit Carson County. Anyone who needs a ride can use it. Wheelchair-accessible vans go to senior meal sites, shopping and errands, and medical appointments — including long trips to Denver or Colorado Springs. Call 719-348-5562; 24 hours' notice is appreciated.

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