Scams, utility assistance and assessment freezes are some of the issues Teche Area seniors can learn about Tuesday at a free, educational seminar sponsored by the 16th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

The event will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cypress Bayou Casino Pavilion in Charenton.

District Attorney Phil Haney said guest speakers will discuss several issues vital to residents 65 years or older.

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“The goal, obviously, is to try to provide some useful information to senior citizens involving an array of areas,” Haney said. “We have lots of people in the community who are interested in giving back to seniors, and that makes it easier.”

State Treasurer John Kennedy will discuss housing dollars available to seniors in the state, as well as a stimulus package and unclaimed property.

Iberia Parish Assessor Rickey Huval will offer information on a special assessment freeze available to senior citizens.

“A lot of people don’t take advantage,” of the assessment freeze, Haney said. “This is an opportunity for several hundred people to learn about it.”

Almetra Franklin, CEO of St. Mary Community Action Agency, will discuss energy assistance money available to seniors to help pay their heating and cooling bills.

Shirley Akers, senior citizen coordinator for the district attorney’s office, said the money could be useful with the costs of fuel and utilities expected to rise this summer.

Haney will discuss scams and other crimes that often target the elderly. Akers said Haney will also speak about the services available through his own senior citizen program.

Lunch will be provided at the event, and door prizes will be available.

Akers said more than 950 seniors from Iberia, St. Martin and St. Mary parishes have already registered for the event.

Seniors can reserve their seat by contacting the councils on aging in any of the three parishes, the St. Mary Parish AARP, or the St. Mary Parish Community Action Agency.