Who does BCCA serve?
Boone County Council on Aging serves low income seniors who are 55 years or older and live in Boone County. BCCA is the community-based senior agency that specializes in matching needs with resources.

Is BCCA a county government agency?
No. BCCA is a private, nonprofit organization that is funded by the United Way, the City of Columbia, Boone County, and the generosity of community donors.

How many seniors does BCCA serve?
In 2008, BCCA served nearly 1,500 seniors and their families, through information and referral, volunteer services and individual care management.

What other agencies provide care management to seniors?
The Division of Family Services (DFS) at (573) 882-9180 is state funded and provides Medicaid, food stamps, blind pension, and qualified Medicare beneficiary.

The Division of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) at (573) 882-9474 is state funded and provides supervision and oversight of Medicaid in home services, conservatorship and guardianship. DHSS also investigates neglect and abuse claims. The hotline number to report abuse is 1(800) 392-0210.

Central Missouri Area Agency on Aging (CMAAA) at (573) 443-5823 is federally funded and provides transportation services, respite funds, and legal assistance. CMAAA also runs meal programs.

I’m retired and would like to volunteer. Do you have any ideas?
Our RSVP of Boone County program provides seniors with the opportunity to use their life skills and stay active, while making a difference for those in need. Whether they choose to volunteer regularly, or wish to work on one-time special projects.

In 2006, 474 RSVP volunteers served more than 58,525 documented hours of service, providing 55 agencies in Boone County with volunteers.

Call us at (573) 442-7238 or visit our office to learn more about current volunteer opportunities for seniors in Boone County.

Can I get a property tax credit refund?
To qualify for the Missouri property tax credit you must be 65 or older (or 100% disabled); have an income of $25,000 or less for an individual or $27,000 for a married couple; and have been a Missouri resident for the calendar year. Renters and those who live in residential care facilities or nursing homes may also apply for the property tax credit (also known as the “circuit breaker) even if you paid no property taxes or income taxes. BCCA staff members are able to assist homebound seniors fill out their property tax forms. Additional assistance is available during tax season for all other individuals who quality. Contact the Department of Revenue at (573) 884-3814 for additional information.

What is Carrier Alert?
If living alone worries you, the Carrier Alert program can offer you the comfort of knowing that someone who visits your home regularly can call for help if you need it. The United States Postal Service (National Association of Letter Carriers) has developed this free service especially for older adults and the homebound.

To register for this program, please contact BCCA at (573) 443-1111. If your letter carrier finds an accumulation of mail, he or she will notify BCCA and we will try to contact you or the contact you have designated. If the friend or relative cannot be reached, we will send a staff member to your home to check on your well-being.

How can I contact the local Social Security Administration office?
The local Social Security Administration office is located at 803 Gray Oak Drive, Columbia, MO 65201. The phone number is (573) 443-1379 or toll free at 1(800) 772-1213. The website is www.socialsecurity.gov

What are the senior housing options in Boone County?
For a listing of senior housing facilities, please consult the Senior Services Directory at seniornetwork.missouri.org

What are the transportation options for seniors in Boone County?
Transportation options for seniors in Boone County include Paratransit at (573) 874-7290; OATS at (573) 449-3789; Medicaid at 1(888) 863-9513; or Central Missouri Agency on Aging at (573) 443-5823. Keep in mind, it may be necessary to contact these transportation companies/agencies several days before you actually need a ride.

My home needs repairs, but I can’t afford to pay. Who can help?
Very low-income seniors (62 and older) may be eligible for home repair grants through Community Development Block Grant Funding at BCCA. Grants may be used for health and safety hazards such as roof repair, heating, electrical and plumbing systems, etc. For information, please call (573) 443-1111.

The City of Columbia Planning Department at (573) 874-7239 offers emergency and rehab home repair for City of Columbia low income homeowners.

How does BCCA use volunteers?
Volunteers are needed to serve seniors in our community. BCCA volunteers assist low-income seniors with grocery shopping, yard maintenance, home repair, transportation to medical appointments, friendly visiting, and much more.

In 2008, 532 individual volunteers provided 3,861 hours of service to local seniors.
• 71 seniors received yard maintenance
• 24 seniors had contact with a friendly visitor
• 21 seniors had home repairs completed
• 19 seniors received food pantry delivery
• And much, much more.

How can I help?
BCCA provides services to seniors in a cost-effective manner through the generosity of an army of volunteers. If you have time to serve, we welcome your involvement in our SeniorConnect or RSVP program. If you don't have time to give, but would like to serve seniors in the community, consider making a donation to BCCA. BCCA is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation, so your contributions are tax deductible. Visit the links to "Volunteer" or "Donate." You can help!




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