Explore the financial assistance options available to seniors and their caregivers in the Sunshine State
Florida has become an increasingly popular location for seniors to reside, with 21.3% of Florida’s population made up of adults over the age of 65 as of 2020. [1]
It’s important that Florida’s seniors are knowledgeable about the financial aid and assistance programs that are available for themselves, their families, and their caregivers.
Continue reading to learn more about the financial assistance options available and which ones you or your loved one may be eligible for.
Florida Emergency Financial Assistance Program (EFAHP)
With eligibility based on income, EFAHP is a federal financial assistance program that prioritizes seniors and families who are faced with eviction or foreclosures by helping them pay their mortgage or rent if they are behind on payments.
The funding for this program is administered by various local nonprofits and charities. Applications for this assistance program are accepted at certain nonprofits and charities, and the funding is distributed by the government.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides free food and groceries to low income seniors. This program aims to improve the health and nutritional well-being of Florida seniors and educate the recipients on how to prepare and eat healthy, nutritious meals.
Through this program, high quality commodity foods are made available from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as well as the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Local pantries and soup kitchens may also provide supplemental support to clients.
In order to be eligible for this assistance program, you must be over the age of 60. Eligible seniors can apply for this program through their local CSFP partner agency.
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Florida’s Section 8 Housing Voucher Program
The Section 8 Housing Voucher Program offers financial assistance to families and individuals in need so they can afford to pay for their housing. This assistance can be used for rent payments or buying a home.
The U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers the federal aid for the Section 8 program and local Public Housing Agencies manage the program to ensure they are accessible to everyone within the state.
Eligibility for this program is based on income. In order to apply, seniors must contact their local Public Housing Agency.
Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI)
The Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative is specifically designed for seniors with Alzheimer’s to meet the needs of those individuals and their families living with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders.
ADI provides respite care to adult caregivers who care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other similar memory disorders. Caregivers of these seniors can also receive training and support services in addition to respite care.
ADI’s respite care services are provided through your local Area Agency on Aging, and you must contact them to learn more about eligibility and to apply for these services.
Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program (EHEAP)
The Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program provides utility bill assistance to households with at least one resident who is over the age of 60, facing a crisis, and meeting the income eligibility requirements.
Through this program, the state of Florida provides cash to pay for cooling, air conditioning, and other utility bills. The exact funding varies by case, but up to $600 can be given to these households. The funds are paid directly to the utility company and not to the recipient.
In certain cases, vouchers may also be provided to pay for fans, portable heaters, and blankets. In order to apply for this program, you must contact your local Area Agency on Aging.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC)
There are 11 Aging and Disability Resource Centers located throughout the state of Florida. ADRCs do not directly provide financial assistance, but they do have up-to-date information about the financial assistance programs that are available to seniors.
ADRCs can also help seniors determine their eligibility and help them apply for the programs they qualify for. ADRCs also provide seniors and their families with information about long-term care options.
Elder Helpline (1-800-955-8711)
It can become confusing and overwhelming for seniors and their families to determine what aid they’re eligible for, what services they need, and where to apply for aid programs.
The Elder Helpline directs seniors, disabled persons, and their families to the appropriate resource office where they can connect you with services that best fit you or your loved one’s needs. Call 1-800-955-8711 to be connected to the Elder Helpline.
Looking for a caregiver for you or a loved one?
At Flourish in Place, we provide home care options for all needs and specialize in helping families in Central Florida find the appropriate level of care for seniors and people with disabilities.
We offer a wide variety of specialized services including dementia care, cooking and serving nutritious meals, companionship and support, light housekeeping, and medication reminders.
To learn more, please request your Free Consultation today!
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