If you're a senior struggling financially, where can you turn for help?

The first stop is your local community. Food banks, shelters, healthy living programs and heating assistance programs may be available.

Visit city websites, check with local churches and the Salvation Army, and inquire at senior centers to find local resources.

State and national programs are also available to help seniors pay for everything from energy costs to food and housing.

Anne Tereshinski, supervisor of initial connections for the Good Samaritan Society's Connection Center, says these resources are more than a form of assistance — they are tools for success.

Anne and her team of specialists help seniors across the country find services like these every day, and often, she says, older adults do not realize they have such options in their communities.

"Some of the seniors that call are not aware of all of the options and resources out there, so we help educate and equip them with information so they feel a little more confident in themselves and in their search.  And we also create a new relationship along the way, which is the most important thing we can do!"

Here are links to organizations and programs that may help you find financial assistance:

• AARP Foundation

• National Association of Area Agencies on Aging

• National Council on Aging

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

• Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)