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Erie County, N.Y. - In Erie County, a growing number of elderly residents have put increasing pressures on the social service system. Home-based, at-risk older persons in rural areas of the county have challenged the county's provider arrangement.
To address the needs of the frail elderly, the Department of Senior Services established Project CARE (Community Action to reach the Rural Elderly), a broad-based grassroots coalition comprised of local organizations and concerned individuals.
Through volunteer community resources, the public-private partnership provides social services to assist elderly individuals in their homes. Services such as home repair and food shopping are not offered through Erie County's formal service system, but supplement existing social and human services. Media coverage and distribution of promotional materials throughout the county has generated hundreds of inquiries for assistance and the caseload has doubled since the program's start in 1992.
Macomb County, Mich. - As the population ages, Macomb County, like most counties, is challenged to provide a growing number of services to elderly/disabled residents. Many aging-related health problems make it difficult for some older adults to remain in their homes. Most older residents, however, find they are able to continue to live safely and happily in their own homes.
To assist this population, the Macomb County Community Services Agency developed Bridging the Gaps, an information and resource program for older citizens who choose to remain in their homes. It sponsored four workshops designed to link older or disabled residents with information about food, medical, and energy assistance; benefits programs; housekeeping services; mental health, nutrition, medication and physicians; hospice, respite and adult day care; care management; and other relevant programs.
County agencies, public and private corporations, physicians, pharmacists, and other community members volunteer to present information at the workshops.
Macomb County, Mich. - The Macomb County Community Services Agency developed the Grand Friendship Club to provide low-income grandparents and grandchildren the opportunity to participate in educational and recreational activities, such as trips to the local zoo, historic sites and other area attractions. Bake sales, candy sales and other fund-raisers were hosted to raise money for the trips and activities. Forty-four adults and children participated in the club. In addition to the educational and recreational experiences offered by the program, the relaxed setting provided valuable interaction between two generations and strengthened the relationship that grandparents and grandchildren share.
(Hats Off, which features information about NACo achievement award winners,was compiled by Angela M. Sides, research assistant.)