Support Services
2018 Tax Prep Assistance
Fridays, February 8 - April 12, 2019
Volunteer certified tax preparers, trained through AARP, will
return in 2019. They are here to help low and moderate
income taxpayers, especially those 60 and older. This free
service is available to most individuals. However, they are not
able to prepare tax forms for most business owners, or those
with rental income or farm income. You may begin scheduling
appointments at Dickinson Hall now by calling 847-234-2209.
Your Senior Advocate
Janet Fryer, LCPC, supports older adults and their families in
the community with face-to-face meetings and home, hospital
and nursing home visits, depending on the need. There is no
charge for her services, including assessments, counseling,
referrals, notary services and help identifying financial
assistance programs and applying. For those eligible, state,
local and federal programs may pay for Medicare or drug plan
premiums, reduce drug co-pays, and reduce property taxes.
Support and guidance are available for those who are
homebound, lonely, coping with low vision, caring for a spouse
or parent, or who need help considering options and making
decisions. If you are concerned about a family member or older
neighbor, give Janet a call at 847-810-4678.
Real Estate Assessment Exemption
Workshop
Thursday, May 9, 10:00 am - Noon
NOTE: Income eligibility has increased to $65,000
The Chief County Assessment Office and Township Assessors
will be at DH to assist residents in completing the 2019 Senior
Citizens Assessment Freeze Application for taxes payable in
2020, and to help taxpayers sign up for other appropriate
exemptions. Residents will work with a staff member
one-on-one to complete necessary forms. Qualifications for the
Assessment Freeze are 65 or older, own and live in the
property for the past two years and an income of $65,000 or
less. Bring your 2018 tax return, Social Security Statement
(SSA-1099) and proof of beneficiary if the house is held in a
Trust. No appointment required.
Social Services: Faith in Action
Trained and supervised volunteers can provide transportation,
grocery shopping, social support, and caregiver respite, often
forming a quality relationship with those they assist. Their
partnership with Dickinson Hall increases the depth of services
offered to community members in need. To access their
services, learn more, or explore volunteer opportunities for this
much-needed organization, contact Janet or speak with Faith in
Action directly at 847-721-8414. For more information about
Faith in Action visit www.selcfia.org.
Special Guest Scholarship Program
If you are interested in enjoying our programs, but finances are
tight, Dickinson Hall offers a scholarship for in-district residents
with limited incomes. Those eligible for Benefits Access will
qualify and we have also increased the eligibility income levels
so that additional residents may qualify. Call Janet at 847-810-
4678 to discuss your situation. All inquiries are confidential.
Caregiver Support
One-on-one support is available to individuals caring for a
loved one, even if that person does not live with you. Janet is
available to meet with family caregivers here at Dickinson Hall,
or in someone’s home. Call Janet at 847-810-4678 with
questions, for referrals to local resources, or if you need to talk.
Help for Unexpected Expenses
Financially-strapped older adults in our service area facing
unexpected home repairs or with other short-term financial
challenges may speak with Janet, the Senior Advocate, about
applying for assistance. Requests are confidential and
considered on a case-by-case basis.
Information and Referral
We have put together lists of local resources and are happy to
provide contact information on local professionals, social
services, medical providers and other subjects. Call Janet at
847-810-4678 to request the local referrals. (Note: We are not
able to endorse any person, company, agency or facility; these
resources are for your convenience.)
Need a Handyman?
A local handyman has agreed to help out Dickinson Hall
members at a discounted rate. He can repair bi-fold doors,
fix damaged walls, install grab bars, do small carpentry jobs
and more. Call Janet at 847-810-4678 to get the discount rate.
Save Money on Your Car Registration
and ride free on transit if you earn less than $27,610 for an
individual, or $36,635 for a couple. This requires an approved
Benefits Access application, filed over the computer,
which can take months to process. The Senior Advocate can
help you apply right away, or three months before your current
certificate expires. Seniors who do not meet income
requirements can still get discounted senior fares on
Metra and the RTA.
No-Cost Counseling Available
If you are coping with multiple stressors or multiple losses,
professional counseling is available at no cost to you. Family
Service of Lake County offers counseling to those 60 or older
through a grant from the Northeastern Illinois Agency on
Aging. Services are offered in the Highland Park office or in
your home. Please call Family Service at 847-432-4981, x200,
for information or an appointment.
Medical Lending Closet at Dickinson Hall
Short-term loans are available to Lake Forest and Lake Bluff
residents. Call to check availability or for an appointment.
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