Once you find someone who will help replace a heater part at a reasonable price, it might be time to think about downsizing..... owning a home means something is always needing of repair, and if money is an issue what will you do if the plumbing needs repair or an appliance needs replacing? It's something to think about.
There are senior apartments where the rent is based on one's income.
Try calling the County. We replaced a few heaters for people and it was paid by the County, paperwork involved. I don't know if a contractor would put a part in that you bought , do to liability.
There are senior apartments where the rent is based on one's income.