July is here, and so is the heat. Do not forget to contact the Portage County Community Action Council to schedule an appointment to see if you qualify for the Home Energy Assistance Program. This program does not only provide assistance to help pay heating bills but also has money available for the cost of air conditioning.
If you do not have a fan, contact them as they have had fans available to donate in recent years.
When you apply for assistance, you will need proof of income, Social Security numbers for individuals living within your home, and a recent electric bill. You will need to make an appointment, and take all of this info with you to your appointment.
It was another sad day for senior citizens in Portage County when the proposed tax levy failed in May. This levy also included money for protective services for neglected and abused children.
I am told that the organizing group may consider putting the issue back on the ballot this fall. That would be great, but it would be better if our neighbors would “step up to the plate” and pass the levy. It was only going to add an additional $14 a year to our property tax bill.
If you have an opportunity to talk with some of our elected officials, ask them to support the levy. Not just in private, but out front where everyone can see that our leadership supports helping senior citizens.
A good sign for senior citizens is that the Crestwood Senior Group is alive and well. They have been receiving great support from their neighboring organizations who continue to donate money to keep the group alive!
These are the kind of “good neighbors” we need to have all over our county.
Did you know that 74 out of the 88 counties in the state of Ohio have a Senior Services levy?
This past month, I have come up with a few more retail establishments that will give senior citizen discounts on purchases. But remember you will need to ask for the discount, businesses are still reluctant to offer the senior discount for fear they will insult you by implying that you "look old.” (They could put up a small sign reminding us that they do offer a discount!)
The Dress Barn offers 10% discounts on items purchased on the Internet. Ross Dress for Less, located on Howe Road (Chapel Hill area), offers a 10% discount on Tuesdays. TJMAXX at Chapel Hill offers a 10% discount on purchases (did not find out if it was only on a particular day).
PetSmart even offers senior citizens a 10% discount on purchases and/or grooming services.
Lenscrafters offers a 30% discount on items if you use your AARP card.
Senior discounts are also available on cell phone service. T-Mobile offers a plan for senior citizens which includes text, talk and data for $30 a month.
I know from experience that all area fast food restaurants offer 10% discounts on purchases for senior citizens or a free small drink. Remember, you have to ask.
Contact Sally Kelly with your senior news at 330-687-9501 or sentrip@yahoo.com.
