Pathways To Funding For Adults & Seniors:
A Handbook for WV's Older Residents

Section 2. Other Funding Sources & Services

Other Funding Sources:  [A - D]   [E - L]   [M - R]   [S - V]   [W - Z]  

4Mission Cataract USA
The Volunteer Eye Surgeons Association sponsors this program to provide free cataract surgery to people of all ages who have no other means to pay. Surgeries are scheduled annually on one day, usually in May. The toll-free number is 800-391-EYES (800-391-3937).

AARP West Virginia
The AARP West Virginia offers advocacy, education, and community service for West Virginians 50 and over. For more information about the AARP services call 304-344-4740 or visit www.aarp.org

Access WV
Access WV is a health plan created by West Virginia statute to provide health insurance to West Virginians who have been unable to find or who have been denied health insurance in the private market because of a medical condition. It also provides coverage to people who are eligible under the Federal Portability Act or under the IRS Health Coverage Tax Credit Program. For more information, call Access WV at 866-445-8491 or visit www.wvinsurance.gov/accesswv

Adult Basic Education
The West Virginia ABE Program is committed to providing integrated and comprehensive services to equip adults with the strong foundational skills they need for productive employment, effective citizenship, and successful life management. For more information, call your local public school system or visit www.wvabe.org

Adult Family Care
Adult Family Care provides adults who need and desire the support, protection, and security of family living an opportunity to live within a family unit where they can function as an individual. For more information about this program, contact your local Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) office or visit www.wvdhhr.org

Adult Services Programs
Adult Services supports programs to help aged, blind, and disabled adults. These services are intended to care for and support vulnerable adults so that they may remain in their own homes and still get the care they need, and improve the quality of life for adults who must live in nursing homes, personal care homes, residential board and care homes, and adult family care homes. Services include protecting mentally and physically disabled adults from being abused, neglected, or financially exploited; adult family care; a homeless program; licensed personal care homes; guardianship and health care surrogate, and residential board and care homes. For more information, contact your local Department of Health and Human Resources (see Appendix M) or visit www.wvdhhr.org

Affordable Dentures
Affordable Dentures is a network of affiliated denture practices that aims to provide individuals with a denture created to their own personal needs at an affordable fee. The two Affordable Dentures locations in West Virginia are Bridgeport (304-842-1995) and Barboursville (304-733-5500). For more information, such as other locations and fees, visit www.affordabledentures.com or call 800-DENTURE (800-336-8873).

AgrAbility Project (CED at WVU)
The West Virginia AgrAbility Project is part of a national information network for farmers, farm workers and farm families. The program is designed to help find solutions to meet special needs caused by a disability or chronic health condition. AgrAbility staff will provide information and referral, on-the-farm visits, service coordination and help find support to pay for assistive technology and farm equipment modifications. Call 800-841-8436 or visit www.cedwvu.org/programs/agrability for more information.

AMFM Family Nursing Facilities
AMFM Family Nursing Facilities are for those considering long term nursing or short term rehabilitative care. Call the home office in Charleston at 800-348-1623 to find the center closest to you, a free guide, services and care.

Alzheimer's Association
A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can be frightening and overwhelming. The Alzheimer's Association has access to the most recent information on the disease and many of the services are free. The Alzheimer's Association also offers a training program to groups or individuals providing care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Training topics include communication, working with families, bathing, wandering, driving, and more. Groups and individuals can earn basic, advanced or dementia care certificates. For additional information call 800-491-2717 or visit www.wvalz.org

Assistive Technology Bulletin Board
The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) offers a Bulletin Board where individuals can post used and/or no longer needed assistive technology for giveaway, sale or trade. Call 800-841-8436 for more information. The Board is available online at: www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats/virtuallibrary.html

Association of Blind Citizens
This funding source will cover 50% of the retail price of adaptive devices or software. The ABC board of directors believes that this program will allow blind and visually impaired individuals' access to technology products that will have a significant impact on improving employment opportunities, increase their level of independence and enhance overall quality of life. Applications must be submitted by June 30th, September 30th and December 31st for each grant period (three per year). For more information e-mail aft@assocofblindcitizens.org, visit their website at www.assocofblindcitizens.org/assistive_tech.htm or call 781-961-1023.

Behavioral Health Advocacy Project
Appalachian Legal Services contracts with the Department of Health and Human Resources to provide non-legal representation and assistance for consumers of behavioral healthcare services. There is no charge for services provided by the Behavioral Advocacy Project. For additional information, call 800-834-0598 x 29.

Bureau of Senior Services
The WV Bureau of Senior Services (BOSS) offers information, respite care, training, support groups and individual counseling. A variety of programs and services, including the Aged and Disabled Waiver Program, are available for interested and eligible individuals. For more information call 304-558-3317 or visit their website at www.state.wv.us/seniorservices

Burial Assistance
WV Department of Health and Human Resources provides help with the funeral costs of eligible low-income adults or children. Family contributions and other third-party payments may be allowed to help pay for the burial. Call your local DHHR office (see Appendix M for more information.)

Cabell-Wayne Association of the Blind
The Cabell-Wayne Association of the Blind (CWAB) in Huntington, WV provides free services to residents of Cabell and Wayne counties who have vision impairments. These services include computer training, cooking classes, transportation, rehabilitation, exercise classes, orientation and mobility classes, recreational and social activities and focus groups. CWAB also has in-house visits for people who may need assistance with their banking, comparative shopping, and other services. For more information, call 304-522-6991 or e-mail cwab@access.mountain.net

CAMC Health Information Center
The CAMC Health Information Center provides access to health care information. The center does not provide medical care or advice. The center promotes health and healthcare by providing materials focusing on current, practical and comprehensive information important to the well-being of the community. For additional information call 888-HEALTHY (888-432-5849) or visit www.healthinfocenter.org

Caregiver Support
The Family Caregiver Support Program is designed to provide information and support to individuals who are unpaid caregivers for elderly family members. Services include assistance to caregivers in accessing services, individual counseling, organization of support groups, training to assist caregivers, and respite care. For more information call 304-558-3371 or visit www.state.wv.us/seniorservices

Catholic Charities of West Virginia
Catholic Charities is a department of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston that offers assistance to anyone in need. Call 304-233-0880 or visit www.ddwc.org for more information.

Community Services, Inc. Community Rehabilitation Program
Community Services, Inc. (CSI) is a vendor who provides a Community Rehabilitation Program that offers job site training, direct placement, supported employment and more to people with disabilities. CSI matches workers to the labor needs of employers, and then trains and provides support to the employee for as long as necessary to make the placement a success. Training and follow-up services by a job coach help to ensure success. For more information, call 304-766-7799 or visit www.csiwv.com

Corporate Angel Network
The Corporate Angel Network is a nationwide public charity whose mission is to arrange passage for cancer patients to treatment centers using empty seats on corporate jets. Employees and volunteers work with patients and families to coordinate their travel needs with Corporate Angels - 500 major corporations who make empty seats on their aircraft available to patients. For more information call 866-328-1313 or visit www.CorpAngelNetwork.org

DEAF, Inc.
DEAF is a non-profit organization that provides services to people with developmental disabilities. DEAF provides services to individuals who have been diagnosed with mental retardation and/or a related condition that requires the level of care provided in an intermediate care facility. For more information, call 304-766-9470.

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Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. The service is designed to help older adults and their families and caregivers find services for seniors by identifying trustworthy local support services. The goal is to provide users with the information and resources they need to live independently and safely in their homes and communities for as long as possible. For more information, call 800-677-1116, or visit www.eldercare.gov

Emergency Assistance
Emergency Assistance gives short-term financial help to persons and families who face a financial crisis. Items that may be needed are: shelter, utilities, food, household goods, clothing, child care, transportation or outpatient medical care. The Emergency Assistance Program is only available one time during any 12-month time period. Persons and families must meet certain program guidelines and be within certain levels for income and assets. Those applying for this program will also be referred to other community programs that may help. Call your local DHHR office (See Appendix M) for more information.

Employer Assisted Loan Program
The Employer Assisted Loan Program is a 100% home ownership financing program for WV's public and private employees. For additional information call 304-345-6475 or visit www.wvhdf.com

Employer Incentive Program
This is a hire first program with public or private sector businesses licensed to do business in West Virginia. These contracts are for a minimum of 30 hours per week not to exceed 40 hours per week. The minimum of hours for each contract is 200 and may not exceed 600. The clients will be hired by an employer and receive no less than minimum wage per hour. The employer will be reimbursed 50% of the salary indicated in the contract by the Department of Health and Human Resources. Call your local DHHR office for more information (Appendix M)

Emotional Support Service Animals
The Emotional Support Service Animals Project helps consumers become aware of their rights with an emotional support service animal, provides education and consultation if or when a person is discriminated against. For additional information call 304-255-0122.

Experience Works
Experience Works is a national, nonprofit organization that offers training and employment opportunities for mature workers. For more information call 304-487-2325.

Family Caregiving 101
The Family Caregiving 101 website is a resource to find assistance, answers, new ideas and helpful advice for individuals who are caring for a loved one who is ill or disabled. For more information, visit www.familycaregiving101.org, or call 800- 896-3650.

Family Caregiver Alliance
The Family Caregiver Alliance addresses the needs of families and friends providing long-term care at home. The Alliance offers programs at national, state and local levels to support and sustain caregivers. FCA is a public voice for caregivers, illuminating the daily challenges they face, offering them the assistance they need and deserve, and championing their cause through education, services, research and advocacy. For more information, visit www.caregiver.org, or call 800-445-8106.

FamilyCare
FamilyCare is a vendor who provides a variety of medical services, including annual checkups and physicals for adults and children, prenatal care and delivery, newborn and pediatric care, health care for senior citizens, treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, mental health counseling, treatment for serious medical problems, full dental services, and more. Most insurance plans are accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare. Most services are also available on a sliding-fee scale based on income for those without insurance. FamilyCare has locations in Scott Depot (800-427-1592), Charleston (866-684-3558), Hurricane (304-757-6999), and Cedar Grove (304-596-1770). For more information, visit www.FamilyCareWV.org

Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program
The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program is available to federal and postal workers, government retirees, retired military personnel, as well as their immediate families. Call 800-582-3337 or visit www.ltcfeds.com for more information.

Find a Care Manager
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers has an online resource to help individuals locate a Professional Care Manager. A Professional Care Manager is someone who helps older people and their families identify problems and get needed in-home care and services. For more information, visit www.findacaremanager.org, or call 520-881-8008

Food Stamps Step 1
Food Stamps Step 1 is a web site that can make it easier for people to apply for food stamps. This web site lets low-income families learn whether they qualify for food stamps and see how much assistance they could receive. The site is not necessarily targeted at lower-income people who have computers in their homes. Needy families without computers can go to food banks or government offices to access the Internet site. You can log on to the site at www.foodstamps-step1.usda.gov

Foster Grandparents
Foster Grandparents are individuals who are over 60 years of age, can volunteer an average of 20 hours a week, have a limited income, and love children. This program gives children the much needed attention that can change lives. Foster Grandparents receive pre-service orientation and monthly training, an annual physical examination, supplemental insurance, a small stipend for those that qualify, help with meal and transportation costs and the joy of knowing you are making a difference for children. For more information about becoming a Foster Grandparent visit www.seniorcorps.org or call 800-424-8867.

Free Flu Shots
The Muscular Dystrophy Association offers flu shots at no cost to people with any of the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases in the Association's program. For more information about getting a free flu shot, call the MDA at 800-572-1717 to find the location of the MDA clinic nearest to you, or visit www.mdausa.org

Geriatric Care Management
Geriatric Care Management (GMC) is a community-based health care management initiative designed to promote maximal health status for select United Mine Workers or America Funds' beneficiaries. The purpose of this program is to assist frail, elderly beneficiaries with chronic, acute or terminal conditions, to achieve the highest level of functioning by coordinating efforts of the health care team. GMC Care coordinators are registered nurses contracted through local home health agencies who provide home assessments and coordination of services. For more information please call Appalachian Regional HealthCare at 304-436-2713.

Good News Mountaineer Garage
The Good News Mountaineer Garage is a non-profit organization that accepts donations of used vehicles, repairs them, and distributes them West Virginia Health and Human Services department where, in turn, they area redistributed to low income individuals who are needing a vehicle. For more information or to donate a car, call 866-GIVE-CAR (866-448-3227) or visit www.goodnewsmountaineergarage.com

Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program
HIPP is designed to assist Medicaid eligible individuals who cannot afford employer group health coverage. The Bureau of Medical Services will pay the premiums along with any deductibles and co-payments for Medicaid eligible individuals when the policy is determined to be cost-effective. The program will also assist recently unemployed individuals with COBRA benefits available from the former employer. Candidates must have group health insurance that covers at least one Medicaid-eligible person in West Virginia available to them. More information and an on-line application are available by calling 304-342-1604 or at www.wvrecovery.com/hipp.htm

Health Right Clinics
Health Right is a free clinic for people who have no health insurance and cannot pay for health care on their own. Doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and support staff care for patients by volunteering. Health Right operates almost entirely on the charity of others. Among the services offered by the clinic are wellness screenings, basic medical care, screenings for sexually transmitted diseases and patient education for such chronic problems as diabetes. A strong emphasis is placed on prevention and health education and patients are encouraged to take an active role in their own health care.
Locations include Charleston at 304-343-7003, Morgantown at 304-292-8234, Mercer County at 304-327-2410, Beckley at 304-253-4600, Wheeling at 304-233-9323, Logan at 304-239-3810, and Middlebourne (Tuesdays only) at 304-758-5074.

HealthSouth
HealthSouth Regional Rehabilitation Hospitals offer many programs including the aquatic rehabilitation, the outpatient day hospital program, and balance and vestibular programs. For more information about HealthSouth programs call 800-388-2451. The Huntington branch can be contacted at 304-733-1060, the Morgantown branch at 304-598-1100, the Parkersburg branch at 304-420-1300, and the Princeton branch at 304-487-8000.

Hear Now
Hear Now is a program that seeks to help people who otherwise could not afford hearing aids. Since 1995, Hear Now has provided more than 65,000 children and adults with hearing aids. Hear Now accepts donations of old, used, and no longer used hearing aids, which are then sold to a repair lab, and money generated through these sales is used to purchase the aids used in the program's hearing aid assistance program, the National Hearing Aid Bank. For more information on applying for assistance, or to donate a hearing aid, call 800-648-4327 or visit www.sotheworldmayhear.org

Homeless Services
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Services contracts with eleven homeless shelters statewide to provide emergency shelter and case management services. Individuals served through the Department's Homeless program must participate in the development and implementation of a service plan that is designed to eliminate the causes of homelessness. For more information on this program call your local DHHR office (See Appendix M) or visit www.wvdhhr.org

Huntington Human Relations Commission
The HHRC looks at and decides on complaints made by people who feel their rights have been violated by discrimination. You can file a complaint if you feel your rights have been taken because of your race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age (if you are 40 or older), or disability. For additional information call 304-696-5592

In-Home Care Program
This program is designed to keep individuals living in the most independent, least restrictive environment to help reduce premature institutionalization. The In-Home Care Program is available statewide. Personal hygiene and grooming, environmental, nutritional support, and non-technical physical assistance are provided in the home. For more information call 800-499-4080.

Intergenerate, WVU Center on Aging
Intergenerate fosters collaborations between students and senior citizens in the West Virginia University community. Intergenerate helps the young and the young at heart gain understanding and acceptance by pairing college students with senior citizens from the community in activities that encourage sharing and friendship. For more information on this program call 304-293-2968 or visit www.hsc.wvu.edu/coa/

Leadership Academy
The Leadership Academy is a training program involving citizenship, advocacy, leadership, and organizational skills for groups of consumers of behavioral health services. For additional information call 888-825-8324 or visit www.contac.org

Link-up America
Link-up America is a program for low income households offered by West Virginia telephone companies. The program offers a lower than normal cost for the connection of a telephone line in the household. Link-up America helps rural households have access to emergency and other community services. Call your local DHHR office (See Appendix M) for more information.

Limbs for Life
This mission of the Limbs for Life Foundation is to benefit amputees by providing comfortable and fully functional prosthetic care for individuals who cannot otherwise afford it. For more information call 888-235-5462 or visit www.limbsforlife.org

Lions Club International
Provides financial assistance for eye care; service may vary depending on locality. Check your telephone directory for local club or call the organization's national office at 630-571-5466.

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)
LIEAP is a yearly winter home-heating program that helps pay a household's winter heating bills. Households must meet income and program guidelines. Households that are facing the shut-off of their home heating services during the winter may get help through an emergency part of the program. Call your local DHHR office (See Appendix M for more information.)

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Medicaid Infrastructure Grant Program (MIG)
The Medicaid-Work Incentive Network (M-WIN) is now a part of the Medicaid Infrastructure Grant Program. The mission of MIG is to keep individuals with disabilities employed while retaining Medicaid health insurance. Individuals enrolled in M-WIN pay a monthly premium for health insurance coverage. The monthly premiums are based on income. For more information call 800-841-8436.

Medicare Savings Programs
The West Virginia SHINE (Senior Health Insurance Network) Program has three programs that can assist with out-of-pocket costs that Medicare does not pay. The programs may pay your monthly Medicare premium and may also pay Medicare deductibles and coinsurances. To qualify for these programs, you must be eligible for Medicare Part A and have limited income and assets. For more information, call 877-987-4463.

Memory Disorders Program
The Memory Disorders Program at West Virginia University provides comprehensive assessment and care services for elders who are experiencing memory loss, difficulty performing familiar tasks, disorientation in relation to time and space, misplacing things, changes in personality, loss of initiative and more. Support services for family caregivers are also available. The program is staffed by professionals who are trained to evaluate and treat the problems associated with memory loss in older adults. For more information, call the WVU Healthline at 800-982-8242, or visit www.health.wvu.edu

Mental Health Services
The University Health Associates Mental Health Services includes assessments and evaluations, individual and group therapy, marital and family therapy, psychological and neuropsychological testing and diagnosis and treatment of sleep disturbances. Appointments are scheduled 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 5 p.m. on Fridays. For additional information call 304-293-5299.

National Captioning Institute
The National Captioning Institute (NCI) Help Desk will assist individuals with questions and concerns about closed captioning and related media access services. For more information call 703-917-7686 or visit www.ncihelpdesk.org

National Organization on Rare Disease (NORD)
NORD administers medication assistance programs to assist uninsured or under-insured individuals in securing life-saving or life-sustaining medications. For a complete list of NORD's current Medical Assistance Programs call 800-999-6673 or visit www.rarediseases.org/programs/medication

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Helps those who get Medicaid with the costs of going to and from their doctors and medical service providers. Other costs during the travel such as meals, lodging, and tolls may also be available for eligible patients. Private auto transportation providers are paid by the mile. Public transportation providers are reimbursed at rates decided by the WV Public Service Commission. Call your local DHHR office. See Appendix M for more information.

Patient Advocate Foundation
The Patient Advocate Foundation is a national non-profit organization that works with patients to resolve insurance, job discrimination, and/or debt issues relative to their diagnosis with insurers, employers, and/or creditors. Through mediation, the Patient Advocate Foundation seeks to help patients acquire and maintain access to care, employment, and preservation of their financial stability. For more information, call 800-532-5274, or visit www.patientadvocate.org

Pearle Vision Foundation
Pearle Vision Foundation awards grants to economically disadvantaged individuals for surgeries and low vision equipment and to non-profit organizations for research, education, training and projects related to preserving lifetime vision. Eligibility is based on individuals who demonstrate financial hardships and are in need of vision care. People who can be assisted are those who are presently unemployed, on a limited income, and cannot obtain insurance or medical assistance. For more information call 214-277-5993.

Peer Recovery Network
The Peer Recovery Network provides alternative/non-traditional direct and group services that are currently unavailable from other system entities in WV. The primary purpose of this network is to work toward providing a common voice for consumers of addiction or addiction related services within the state. For additional information call 888-807-2955.

Peer Transitions
Peer Transitions is mental health consumers helping fellow consumers. Peer Transitions is committed to being a resource in the transitional period by helping peers develop and improve the skills and supports needed to be successful and satisfied in their communities. For additional information call 800-598-8847.

Perdidos, Inc.
Perdidos, Inc. is a non-profit corporation committed to addressing transportation needs of West Virginians. Perdidos provides services for transport to: medical facilities, mental health and drug rehabilitation programs, welfare-to-work programs, after-school programs, foster care, homeless shelters, and general transportation for everyday needs in connection with many state agencies and non-profit organizations. Call 866-WVA-RIDE (866-982-7433) for more information.

Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology (PAAT)
PAAT is open to any individual who is or would be enabled by an assistive technology device or service. The goal of PAAT is to help individuals with disabilities, their family members, guardians, advocates or authorized representatives who have been denied access to assistive technology devices or services by Medicaid, Medicare, a school, an employer, an insurance company or any state or federally funded agency or entity. For more information, go to www.wvadvocates.org or call 800-950-5250.

Recovery Education Center
At the Recovery Education Center, qualified trainers teach a series of modules that pull together life experience and skill-building activities helpful in providing effective peer-to peer-supports. Adults with psychiatric disabilities, who are recovery focused and interested in improving their education and work opportunities are encouraged to enroll. For additional information call 304-345-7312.

Residential Board & Care and Personal Care Homes
Both residential board and care homes and personal care homes provide a supervised group living situation in which four or more individuals receive care, including limited nursing care. These facilities have proven to be ideal for many elderly and disabled individuals who require a supervised living situation. Contact your local DHHR office. See Appendix M for more information.

Ronald McDonald House
The Ronald McDonald House is located across the parking lots from Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown. It offers a sliding fee of usually $12/night. Call ahead to make reservation or for more information 304-598-0050.

Rosenbaum Family House
The Rosenbaum Family House is right next (connected) to Ruby Memorial Hospital. It offers cheap accommodations for individuals coming to Morgantown to receive medical services. Physician or hospital clergy must make the referral. $15 per night. Call 304-598-6094 for more information.

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The Seeing Hand Association is a private, non-profit organization established to provide services to the blind in the Upper Ohio Valley. The association assists individuals, families and professionals in accessing services and/or resources to meet their needs. It also offers support groups and low vision clinics for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. For more information call 304-232-4810.

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People
Self Help for Hard of Hearing People (SHHH) is the nation's largest organization for people with hearing loss. They are also the nation's leading consumer advocacy group helping people with hearing loss. SHHH seeks to open the world of communication for people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy and support. For information on joining, and a wealth of hearing loss information, visit www.hearingloss.org

Senior Corps, RSVP
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is a federally funded program that invites adults age 55 and over to use their life experience and skills to answer the call of their neighbors in need. For more information go to the Senior Corps website at www.seniorcorps.org or call 304-296-7454.See Appendix N.

Senior Community Service Employment Program
SCSEP provides income-eligible individuals who are 55 and older subsidized part-time employment and training opportunities in a variety of nonprofit social service agencies. For more information visit www.state.wv.us/seniorservices or call 304-558-3371.

Senior Companions
Senior Companions are healthy older adults who help other adults live independently. Senior Companions provide support to family caregivers. They assist with grocery shopping and other daily tasks necessary to maintaining independence. As a Senior Companion you will receive pre-service and on-going training, an annual physical examination, supplemental insurance, help with meal and transportation costs, a small stipend for those who qualify, and the joy of helping others live on their own. For more information on becoming a Senior Companion visit www.seniorcorps.org, or call 800-424-8867.

Senior Wise
Bank One and Cabell Huntington Hospital offer SeniorWise, a program that offers a number of free hospital and banking services. From Cabell Huntington Hospital, members receive upgrades to private hospital rooms, free or reduced-rate health screenings, appointments with Medicare Financial Counselors, and more. From Bank One, members receive a financial checkup, free checking, free on-line bill paying, and more. All services are free to members. For an application, call 304-526-4897, or visit www.cabellhuntington.org For more information, call 304-526-2052.

Starkey Hearing Foundation
The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates more than 10,000 hearing aids each year to people who can't afford them. For more information visit www.starkey.org or call 800-328-8602. )

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
WV SHIP provides free assistance to Medicare beneficiaries through personal counseling sessions, by telephone, group presentations, and through the media. Counselors are located in the senior centers in all 55 counties (See Appendix F). Information is provided on a variety of topics, including Part A (hospital benefits), Part B (out-patient services), Part D (prescription drug coverage), preventive services, medigap policies and Medicare Savings Programs. The program is also able to provide guidance with Medicare billing issues and appeals. The West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services Medicare Call Center also provides similar Medicare assistance via a toll-free call. The call center, located within the Bureau's office in Charleston, is answered during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. This service has been particularly helpful for those who are unable to meet face-to-face with a county SHIP counselor. This includes those who, for whatever reason, cannot travel to their local senior center. The call center has also been valuable service to those living out of state, but who give assistance to a Medicare beneficiary who resides in West Virginia. For these people, help is just a phone call away. Call 877-987-4463 for more information.

Supportive & Nutrition Services
The Bureau for Senior Services provides a wide variety of support services that are available in county senior centers, their satellite locations, or in senior's homes. Services include transportation, instruction and training, congregate meals, home delivered meals, letter reading and writing, exercise programs, shopping, home repair, homemaker, adult day care, telephoning, personal care, health screening, chore services, nutrition education, and information and assistance. For more information call 304-558-3317 or visit www.state.wv.us/seniorservices

Tax-Aide
Tax-Aide is free tax assistance. The assistance is confidential and available to all tax payers with middle and low incomes, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Tax-Aide is a service that prepares tax returns and answers tax questions. For more information call 888-227-7669 or visit www.aarp.org/taxaide

Teaching and Learning with Internet-based Resources
For students and tutors new to the Internet, this web site is a great place to start. It gives strategies for Internet users, electronic field trips, and specific lessons to help learners develop skills while exploring the Internet. For more information visit http://novel.nifl.gov/susanc/pressind.htm

Telephone Relay Service
The WV Telephone Relay Service works to connect people who are deaf, deaf-blind, hearing, hard-of-hearing and speech disabled. A Telephonic Communication Device Loan Program is available for interested individuals. For more information about these services call, the WV Commission for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing at 866-461-3578 (V/TTY) or visit their website at www.wvdhhr.org/wvcdhh

Twenty-percent Utility Discount Program
This program helps people who get AFDC-U, Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI), or who are over age 60 and get Food Stamps, by giving them below-normal rates for their gas and electric service during the winter months. Call your local DHHR office. See Appendix M for more information.

United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) Health and Retirement Funds
The United Mine Workers of America offers a Diabetes Education Program, a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Education Program, and a Congestive Heart Failure Education Program. Each program offers private consultations, educational materials, educational sessions, and evaluations for getting into shape. UMWA also offers a case management program in which individuals can call and speak with registered nurses who have varied backgrounds, including transplant, oncology, psychiatric, nursing home, and home health experience. For more information on any of these programs, call 800-292-2288.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Fair Housing is a right protected by federal and state laws. Fair Housing means you may freely choose a place to live. HUD's mission is to increase homeownership, support community development and increase access to affordable housing free from discrimination. For more information call 800-669-9777 or visit www.hud.gov

Verizon Center for Customers with Disabilities
The Verizon Center for Customers with Disabilities is a communications resource for people who have low vision or blindness, hearing loss or deafness, or cognitive, speech or mobility impairments. Verizon's mission is to provide the highest quality of service to customers with disabilities and have representatives who are trained to help with services and equipment. For additional information call 800-974-6006 or visit www.verizon.com. Nokia offers similar services. For more information regarding Nokia's services please call 800-246-6542 or visit www.nokiaaccessibility.com

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Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
WRAP is a program of the WV Mental Health Consumers Association. Part of its mission is to conduct Wellness Recovery Action Plan peer support groups for adults with mental health and/or co-occuring experiences throughout the state. For more information call 800-598-8847.

Wells Fargo Reverse Mortgage
If you are at least 62 years old, the Wells Fargo Reverse Mortgage programs borrow against the equity you have built in your home without your repaying the debt for as long as you live there. Instead of making monthly payments, you can choose to receive them. For additional information on this program call 866-421-1800 or visit www.wellsfargo.com

West Virginia ADA Coalition
WV ADA Coalition is a statewide, grassroots group of individuals committed to helping communities achieve equal access for all West Virginians. The Coalition focuses on providing technical assistance, education and training and public awareness. For more information call 800-834-6408 or 304-296-6091 (V/TTY) or visit www.wvadacoalition.org

West Virginia Advocates
The Advocates protect the human and legal rights of West Virginians who have disabilities and work to ensure individuals enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural and educational mainstream of society. For more information, visit the web site at www.wvadvocates.org or call 800-950-5250.

West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) (CED at WVU)
WVATS is dedicated to increasing the access to and acquisition of assistive technology for West Virginians of all ages and types of disabilities. WVATS disseminates information about assistive technologies and services, provides demonstrations and trainings on assistive technologies and operates a lending library, available online at www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats/virtuallibrary.html For more information, call 800-841-8436.

West Virginia Association for the Deaf, Inc. (WVAD)
WVAD serves a wide array of individuals with hearing loss as an advocacy and information network. Members of the WVAD have donated various models of Closed Captioning devices (CC) to be distributed to individuals. Criteria for the donating of a CC device are the person is deaf or hard of hearing and shows a financial burden of purchasing the device themselves. Call WVAD for more information at 304-647-3131 or visit the web site at www.wvdhhr.org/wvcdhh/wvad/

West Virginia Bureau for Public Health
The Bureau for Public Health offers information on disease, injury, health care providers, and health services. For more information or to find the Public Health location nearest you call 304-558-2971.

WV's Catastrophic Illness Commission
You or a loved one may be eligible for financial assistance to help with the cost of medical needs through West Virginia's James "Tiger" Morton Catastrophic Illness Commission. To be eligible for the funds, a patient must be a resident of West Virginia one year prior to the date of onset/diagnosis, have a condition that meets the definition of catastrophic illness and must have exhausted all other resources. Persons eligible for medical assistance through WV Medicaid are not eligible. Past due medical bills are not accepted and all services must be preauthorized through the program director. The WV Legislature created this fund in 1999 as a last resort for those in dire need of medical assistance once all other resources have been exhausted. To apply, call 304-558-6073. Applications may be made over the phone and decisions may be made within approximately one week.

West Virginia Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (WVCDHH)
The WVCDHH is an agency that provides free and confidential services to individuals interested in services concerning individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Services include referral, access to advocacy, training and educational opportunities. The commission also has a TTY loan program. For additional information call 877-461-3578 or visit www.wvdhhr.org/wvcdhh

West Virginia End of Life Care
The West Virginia Center for End-of-Life Care provides coordination, education, and resources so that West Virginians will have their pain controlled and their treatment choices respected. For more information call 566-461-3578 or visit www.hsc.wvu.edu/chel/wvi/

West Virginia Insurance Commission
Obtaining insurance can seem like an overwhelming task and deciding whether or not a policy is necessary can confuse even the most knowledgeable consumer. The West Virginia Insurance Commission offers a variety of services to individuals who have concerns or questions regarding insurance. For more information call 888-TRY-WVIC (888-879-9842) or visit www.wvinsurance.gov

West Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
This program handles issues concerning the quality of care or treatment from a long-term care service provider, questions about billing charges and appeals regarding transfers, discharges, and discontinuances, or changes in service. Anyone can call the Ombudsman Program and make an anonymous complaint. The Ombudsman Program advocates for residents' rights and quality care in nursing facilities, personal care homes, residential board and care homes, and similar long-term care facilities. For more information on how to contact an Ombudsman, call State Ombudsman Larry Medley at 304-558-3317, or find a Regional Ombudsman at 800-834-0598. You can also visit www.state.wv.us/seniorservices

West Virginia Medical Institute
Making a decision about nursing home care can be difficult, but there are resources that can help. Medicare has published a brochure to help guide your decision-making process. If you or someone you know is currently a resident in a nursing home, this brochure can also be used as a guide to talking to the nursing home staff about the quality of care being provided. You can contact the WVMI at 800-642-8686 or visit www.wvmi.org

West Virginia Mental Health Consumers Association (WVMHCA)
WVMHCA is a non-profit corporation organized under the laws of the state of WV for the propose of promoting the rights, representation, respect and responsibility for consumer of mental health services. Call 800-598-8847 for more information.

West Virginia on the Move
The goal of WVOM is to assist West Virginians, regardless of athletic ability, to increase the physical activity in their lifestyle and make smarter food choices in order to maintain a healthy weight. For more information call 304- 558-3317.

West Virginia Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program
The WV Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program is designed to inform people about Osteoporosis preventions and treatments. This program is a part of the Department of Health and Human Services. For more information call 304-558-0644.

West Virginia Senior Legal Aid, Inc.
WVSLA is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free legal services and counsel to West Virginia seniors age 60 and over. For more information call 800-229-5068 or visit www.seniorlegalaid.org

West Virginia University Eye Institute
The Eye Institute at WVU offers a full range of eye care services including comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fitting, low vision evaluation and rehabilitation, laser vision correction and subspecialty medical and surgical treatment. For more information visit www.wvueye.com or call 304-598-4820.

West Virginia University Center on Aging
The WVU Center on Aging has created an online one-stop resource for West Virginia's Seniors. The WVU Center on Aging works to improve the health, well-being and security of older people and those who care for them, in West Virginia and across the nation, through research, education, clinical service, technology and advocacy. Visit this site at www.wvseniors.org For additional information on the WVU Center on Aging call 888-WVAGING (888-982-4464).

West Virginia Welfare Reform Coalition
The WV Welfare Reform Coalition undertakes a number of collaborative projects designed to increase economic self-sufficiency among low-income West Virginians. Projects include: Asset Building Initiative, Making Connections, and the West Virginia EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) Campaign. For additional information call 304-342-6972 or visit www.wvwelfarereform.org

West Virginia University Speech Center
The West Virginia University Speech Center conducts therapy session Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm, with services of a fully-certified supervisory staff. Individual as well as group therapy is offered each semester to meet the needs of the clients. The clinic also conducts augmentative communicative evaluations as part of its services. There is a fully equipped laboratory for acoustic and physiological study of speech disorders. For more information, call 304-293-4241.

Wheelchair Foundation
The Wheelchair Foundation is a nonprofit organization designed to create awareness of the needs and abilities of people with physical disabilities and to deliver a wheelchair to every individual in the world that needs one, but cannot afford one. Call 877-378-3839 or visit www.wheelchairfoundation.org for more information.

Wheelchair Recycling Program
The Wheelchair Recycling Program offers low cost, refurbished mobility and medical equipment to those who lack the resources to acquire new equipment. All equipment is donated to WRP by individuals, businesses and other nonprofit agencies. Every item is carefully cleaned and repaired by experienced workers at Badger State Industries. Equipment can be shipped to anyone in the nation; individuals must pay for the equipment plus the shipping cost. For more information about equipment and prices call the warehouse at 608-243-1785 or visit www.wrp.org

Work Incentive Planning and Assistance (WIPA)
WIPA's Community Work Incentive Coordinators provide information to people with disabilities who receive Social Security benefits (SSI and SSDI) and want to work. The coordinators also answer questions about work choices, medical cards and benefits. For more information, call 304-293-4692 (Northern WV) or 304-720-3200 (Southern WV) or visit www.cedwvu.org/programs/wipa/

WVSeniors.org
WVSeniors.org is a free website with information about senior services available throughout the state of West Virginia. The site also allows users to access a calendar of events, a library of information on aging, and links to senior-related news and online resources for seniors. Users can ask experts questions about geriatric medicine, pharmacy, social services, and more. E-mail accounts, message boards and chat rooms are available free. For more information, call 888-WVAGING (888-982-4464) or visit www.wvseniors.org.

 

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