Journeys Summer 2019 | Page 15

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Legal Assistance A Legal Aid of North Carolina, Inc. attorney is available by appointment to meet with adults ages 60 and older for assistance in non-criminal matters, including employment law, civil law, public assis- tance, housing, consumer protection and more. Legal Aid offers the service at no charge, though contributions are accepted. Call 877-579-7562 to request an appointment. Community Resource Connections Community Resource Connections (CRC) provides information and assistance to simplify access to services and support for Cabarrus County residents. If an agency isn’t able to meet a need, referrals are made to collaborating agencies. The CRC includes information on long-term services and support options, benefits education and counseling, employ- ment counseling, crisis intervention, facilitation of programmatic and financial eligibility determination, and access to public- and private-pay programs and services. For more information, call 704-920-1400. Beat the Heat with Operation Fan Heat Relief People 60 and older, as well as adults with disabilities, are eligible to receive a free fan to provide a more comfortable living environment and reduce heat-related illnesses. For more details, individuals may contact Cabarrus County Human Services, 704-920-1400. Tax Relief The application period for the Homestead Exclusion for Elderly or Disabled Persons (NCGS 105-2777.01) runs from January 1 through June 1. Qualifying owners benefit by having the greater of $25,000 or 50 percent of the value of their perma- nent residence excluded from taxation. To qualify, the property owner must meet the following require- ments on January 1 of the year he/she applies: • Is at least 65 years of age or 100 percent totally and permanently disabled. • Has an income for the prior year of not more than the statutory limit. For 2019 applications based on 2018 income, that limit is $30,200. • Is a Cabarrus County resident. • Home that application is made for must be applicant’s permanent residence. The program defines income as all other money received from every source, other than gifts or inheritances received from a spouse, lineal ancestor or lineal descendant. For married applicants residing with their spouses, the income of both spouses must be included, whether or not the property is in both names. For more information, call Cabarrus County Land Records at 704-920-2127. Weatherization Program The weatherization program helps low-income, elderly and disabled persons make their homes more energy efficient, thereby reducing power costs. Typical services include caulking, weather stripping, repair of windows and doors, insulation of all types, replacement of water heaters, installa- tion of vents, installation of vapor barriers, building of attic and crawlspace doors. For more information, call 704-920-2141. n cabarruscounty.us/seniors 13