I am not sure why they do not have running water in their home. I am thinking it is a busted water pipe. This couple is on an extremely limited budget, one that does not include saving money for unexpected repairs. The pretty much live Social Security check to Social Security check.
I'm in Hopedale, Mass and seniors can contact the Council on Aging and request home repair services that are safety issues. At the same time, someone should speak with COA about over 55 subsidized housing for them. I don't think it's safe for them to be alone and more neighbors would hopefully keep an eye out for them. All the best and thank you for helping them.
Donna
If they are truly able to care for themselves then find an org to help...or...
I put something on Craigslist once to help an elder, and got help immediately! People's hearts responded!!
Another:
If either the husband or the wide is a Veteran the VA may help.
If there is a Habitat for Humanity in the area they may have volunteers that might help or they may have suggestions.
Or maybe getting the plumbing fixed and taking advantage of meals on wheels and other programs would serve them just as well.
Where I live St Vincent de Paul, Jewish Family Service and the PRC / Preservation Resource Center (501C 3 dealing with homes pre 1920 builds) have project funding for just such situations. All would be also on the Agency on Aging list.
As an aside on this, if you buy them bottled water, try to make sure that they can actually open the bottles. After Hurricane Katrina, FEMA provided 2& 3G "camels". Great IF you could open them which required lots of wrist strength......
As for the elderly couple, sounds like it is time for them to downsize if they can no longer pay for any repairs to their home. I know it is tough, they probably had been in that house when one or both were working. Then surprise, the only income is social security which really isn't enough to live the same lifestyle as before.