CLEARFIELD – In order to better solidify its letter of inquiry, the Clearfield County Commissioners has approved offering their own written support for the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging, as it seeks grant funding through the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Inc.
“We’re asking for your written support,” Sue Kordish, director of planning and program operations, said. “We would like our letter of inquiry to look as strong as possible.”
She said if the agency received the funding, it would be used to create a coalition of care providers, allowing them to expand and strengthen the network of information, resources, services and supports in Clearfield County.
“We want to be innovative and create ways to empower family caregivers, targeting those over the age of 55 who have low-to-moderate income to continue to provide care for their loved ones,” she said.
According to Kordish, the grant would be a wonderful opportunity and allow them to establish a caregiver alliance.
“We want to elevate a caregiver’s status,” she said. “Any person who is a caregiver will be granted unfettered access to services,” she said.
“Even greater attention will be directed toward caregivers over the age of 75, as they’ll receive assistance with paperwork, coordinating appointments, travel, and day-to-day task relief.”
Kordish said the funding would also allow caregivers to become better educated, empowered and connected.
Afterward, Commissioner, John Sobel said he saw a need and thought the project was worthwhile.
Kordish said she hoped the community, such as faith-based programs, schools and volunteers would recognize the need and respond.
“It would create a support network,” she said.
Kordish said the agency plans to submit their letter of inquiry by June 10 and will receive word about whether they must submit a complete proposal in August.
She said the funding would provide them with $100,000 for each of the next three years and requires a 20 percent match the first year, 40 during the second and 60 during the final year.
Commissioner Mark McCracken said he was proud of the county’s existing services and would like to provide further support.
“We will commit to any support in order to make this a success,” he said.