The Administration on Aging (AoA) is pleased to report that on February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The legislation contains key investments that will prevent the loss of health coverage, promote prevention programs and lower health care spending for our nation during these challenging economic times. The legislation includes $100 million for meals and nutrition services for older Americans to help them maintain their health and independence, allocated as follows:
o $65 million for congregate nutrition services
o $32 million for home-delivered nutrition services
o $3 million for Native American nutrition services under Title VI.
These funds will assist communities hit hard by rising food costs at a time when demand for services is increasing due to the economic downturn and the growing number of older adults. AoA is already in the process of doing the necessary work to make these funds available as soon as possible. More information on the allocation of these funds, as well as the reporting requirements related to them, will be forthcoming.
In addition, the Recovery Act provided $1 billion to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to promote evidence-based community prevention practices. We are currently working with the Department to develop recommendations on how those funds may be used. The aging network has demonstrated over time that it can be an important strategic partner in delivering preventive services. In recent years, the network has played a significant role in implementing evidence-based prevention programs as well as interventions proven to improve the health of older Americans, reduce chronic disease, injuries and illness and lower long- term care costs. AoA will continue to work with the Department to ensure that the aging network is a full partner as decisions on how to disseminate these prevention funds are discussed. We will continue to keep you updated on our progress.
For more information about the ARRA, please visit
http://www.Recovery.gov, the new website that allows taxpayers to see how Americans will be helped by this landmark legislation.
The Aging Services Division is pleased to announce it has received $259,468 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to expand the Senior Community Service Employment Program in Fairfield, Litchfield, New Haven and New London counties.
These new services will focus on getting eligible participants job ready quickly for careers in the fields and programs highlighted by the Stimulus Bill including health care, child care and the environment.
To be eligible for the program participants must be:
• Currently unemployed
• Age 55 years or older
• Have a family income at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines
Participants will be provided opportunities for intensive training classes followed by assignments in community service to put those skills to the test in a real world environment. Services will also include assistance in building a resume, job development and preparing for an interview.
