- Where can I get assistance with my utility bills?
You must seek assistance from your local DHS office before proceeding to other helping agencies. Remember you must have a shut-off notice, court ordered eviction or foreclosure in order to receive assistance from such agencies.
Genesee County-DHS/Salvation Army/GCCARD/Catholic Outreach/Outreach East
Lapeer County-DHS/Salvation Army/Hispanic Service Center/Human Development
Shiawassee County-DHS/Salvation Army/Capital Area Comm. Service/St. Vincent DePaul
- How do I obtain POA or Guardianship?
POA may be obtained by signing a voluntary agreement by which a competent individual gives another person power to handle medical and/or financial matters for the individual. You must be at least 18 years old and have the capacity to enter into such a contract. POA is a private agreement and does not have to be filed with the probate courts.
Guardianships may be obtained by filing for a petition with probate court. You must complete the forms, provide a doctors letter stating the prognosis of your loved ones condition and pay a court filing fee. A hearing will be set for you and your loved one, if your loved one is unable to attend the doctor’s letter must indicate why he/she is unable to attend the hearing. Guardianship information and forms are available at the probate court.
More information on POA and Guardianships may be obtained from your state legislators’ office, area agency on aging or legal office. Helpful websites www.michbar.org/elderlaw or www.michiganlegislature.org/law/isearch.asp
- Who can I call for transportation to my medical appointments?
Several agencies provide transportation to and from medical appointments such as: Your Ride, Center for Gerontology, Jewish Community Services, RSVP, F.I.S.H., and Department of Human Services. Please contact these agencies for more information on their transportation services. Lapeer County residents should contact Department of Senior Activities and Shiawassee County residents should contact Shiawassee Council on Aging.
- Where can I find help with home repairs?
Assistance with home repairs may be obtained from FNIPP, GCCARD, VAAA, USDA, Genesee County Home Improvement Program, Metro Housing and MSHDA. Contact the agency for more information on their home repair programs. Lapeer County residents should contact Department of Senior Activities and Shiawassee County residents should contact Shiawassee Council on Aging.
- Where can I find help to get a ramp?
Assistance with a ramp may be obtained through your local United Way, Disability Network, VAAA, DHS, and other agencies that provide assistance with home repairs. Lapeer County residents should contact Department of Senior Activities and Shiawassee County residents should contact Shiawassee Council on Aging.