Between the effects of Covid and the constant fear of a recession, many people are finding themselves living under the poverty line. Data from the most recent U.S. Census reported that the number of older adults living below the poverty line has increased from 8.9% in 2020 to 10.3% in 2021. What steps can older adults and caregivers take to get support and stretch their money further?
Food Assistance
- Are you signed up for food assistance? Visit MiCAFE’s website or call 877-664-2233 for help with applying.
- The Senior Project FRESH/Market FRESH program provides eligible older adults with $25 to spend at local farmers markets. The program runs from May to October. Visit the website or contact the health department at (734) 544-3078 for more information.
- Senior Cafes are run by a partnership of the county and senior centers. Enjoy lunch at a subsidized rate (usually $3) and various activities. Visit the website or call your local senior center for more information. You will need to complete a form to participate.
- Food Gatherers has an interactive map on their website that shows nearby food pantries.
- Did you know that CSSW has a food pantry? Click here or call (734) 971-9781 (ext. 8) for more information.
- If you’re unable to leave your home or cook for yourself, Meals on Wheels may be a great help. Subsidized meals are delivered to your home (Schedules vary by program). Click here for a list of providers in Washtenaw County or call your local senior center for more information.
- Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels also offers a host of other programs including assistance with pet food, minor home repair, and case management. Visit the website for more information.
- Visit the Senior Resource Connect Senior Resource Directory to browse food assistance programs in your community.
Prescription Assistance
- We’ve covered various prescription savings tips on the blog.
- Click here to learn about various savings programs through Medicare.
- Click here to browse the National Financial Resource Directory (via Patient Advocate Foundation) for assistance programs.
- Visit the Senior Resource Connect Senior Resource Directory to browse prescription assistance programs.
Medicare/Medicaid
- The Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program allows you to meet with a guide to navigate the application/enrollment process.
- CSSW has MMAP counselors. Visit the website or call (734) 971-9781 (Ext. 8) for more information.
- Visit the Benefits Checkup website (Via the National Council on Aging) to make sure you’re aware of all the programs open to you.
Tax Help
- Visit the Senior Resource Connect Senior Resource Directory to browse tax assistance programs (and keep an eye out on the blog before tax season, as many programs are seasonal)
- Here’s an example of this year’s blog post: https://seniorresourceconnectmi.org/2022-tax-resources-for-seniors/
Not sure what resources you need? Visit the Senior Resource Connect Senior Resource Directory or take our resource quiz.
