Many retired senior citizens live on a fixed income and may not be able to support several additional costs that come their way. Below is a list of several programs that award grants or other financial assistance to seniors. Some of these programs are not awarded directly to a senior citizen, as it is awarded to a nonprofit or other charity that has programs to financially help the seniors in their community.

Very low income housing repair program – This grant is awarded by the USDA, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, to seniors that do not meet an income minimum and live in a rural area with a population of 10,000 or less. The senior(s) applying must be 62 or older and use the grant money to make repairs to their home, which they would not be able to repay through a loan. The maximum award money is $7500.

Section 202 supportive housing for the elderly program – This grant is awarded by HUD, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, allow seniors 62 and older to live independently. The grant pays for the difference between the amount the landlord is charging and 30% of the seniors’ income, to help them afford basic necessities.

Administration on aging nutrition program – This grant is awarded to nonprofits and other charities in communities that help seniors, 60 and older, receive the proper nutrition and diet needs. This program can help seniors live a healthier lifestyle.

Capital assistance program for elderly people – This grant is awarded by the Federal Transit Administration to help provide public transportation to senior citizens. This program is offered in rural and urban areas across the U.S. and is designed to bring transportation to seniors where it is currently lacking.

Foster grandparent program – This grant is awarded by the Corporation for National and Community Service to seniors 55 and older who will participate in volunteer services. These seniors will average between 15 and 40 hours of volunteering a week to help children to read, advise troubled teens, etc. If they qualify as low income they may receive small payments for their time and will also receive the proper training, free meals, and accident insurance. This program is to help keep seniors active in the community and mentor the new generations.

Retired and senior volunteer program – This grant is awarded by the Corporation for National and Community Service in which seniors volunteer in their community to keep active. They will help renovate and repair homes, teach English to immigrants, participate in neighborhood watch programs.