Several federal agencies provide grants to seniors and organizations that work with seniors to help improve their quality of life. These grants range from housing assistance to financial counseling. Some federal grant programs require that the applicant have low or very low income to qualify for help, while other programs only require the participant to meet the age requirement.
Senior Public Housing
The Department of Housing and Urban Development provides housing assistance to low income seniors who are 62 years or older. Seniors can apply for a federally assisted housing unit. This program allows seniors to pay only 30 percent of their income toward rent, with HUD paying the remainder. Senior public housing facilities typically provide additional services for its residents. An on-location coordinator organizes exercise programs, holiday parties and financial management workshops for residents. These facilities may also offer meal programs and transportation services.
Senior Home Repair Grant
The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides home repair grants to seniors 62 years old and above. To qualify for a grant, the senior's income cannot exceed 50 percent of the area's median income. Seniors can receive a grant for up to $7,500 to correct health and safety issues on the property or make upgrades to the home. The home must be located in a rural area of the country for the homeowner to qualify for a grant. If the home is sold within three years of receiving the grant, the senior may be required to repay the money.
Tax Counseling For the Elderly
The Department of Treasury provides grants to registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations that provide free tax counseling for seniors. Seniors receive income tax preparation assistance. This grant helps to ensure that volunteer-based programs can continue to serve the senior population. Volunteers are reimbursed for transportation and meal expenses. Organizations that serve seniors who are 60 years and older can apply for a grant. There is no matching contribution requirement for this program.
Special Programs Grant
Funded under the Recovery Act of 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Aging, provides grants for multiple special programs. These projects include developing and testing new programs, services and systems for the elderly, providing technical training for professionals who work with elderly populations, and evaluating new or existing programs. Public and private nonprofit organizations and institutions are eligible to apply for a grant. To qualify for the Special Program Grant, the organization must serve or work with seniors who are 60 years and older, family caregivers, or individuals who are at risk of becoming institutionalized.
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