Grants for Hearing Aids?

My mom and I are at wit's end, she because she can't hear many things, and I because communication (especially by phone) is increasingly difficult with her and I'm very concerned for her. Last night, a Christmas clock she received as a gift chimed its song, but she could not hear it even when standing right next to it. She sometimes can't hear the phone ringing, and even the smoke alarm is not always heard by her.

She and my step-dad are on a fixed income and are just making it; they don't have the $1500+ hearing aids will cost. We're just meeting our expenses and can't help much.

Do you know of any foundations/Federal grants available to help those who are hearing impaired to get hearing aids? She sees her doctor on Tuesday, and she will ask her if she knows of any resources, too. She really needs them and it kills me that she can't get them. :o(

Thanks for any suggestions you can offer.