The Arizona Association of Area Agencies on Aging is deeply appreciative to our state and federal partners for the appropriation of $5.3 million to local Area Agencies on Aging to support nutrition programs for older adults throughout Arizona.
Over the past few weeks, the Arizona Association of Area Agencies on Aging has joined national advocates, including the n4a (National Association of Area Agencies on Aging) and NANASP (National Association of Senior Nutrition and Aging Programs) to work with Members of Congress to obtain additional emergency funding to provide meals for older adults. AZ4A has a deep debt of gratitude to Senators Sinema and McSally and Representatives O’Halleran, Schwikert, Gallego, and Stanton for voting in favor of this vital supplemental funding through H.R. 6201 the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. AZ4A also thanks Governor Ducey for his administration’s expeditious work to get this vital funding to local Area Agencies on Aging.
“Our goal during this crisis is to help older adults throughout our communities remain safe and in their homes,” said Mary Beals-Luedtka, Director of the Northern Arizona Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging, Chair of the Arizona Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Chair of NANASP. “With that goal in mind, we are so grateful to have the additional funding to be able to meet the needs of our older community members through providing meals and other supportive services.”
The Arizona Association of Area Agencies on Aging continues to vigorously advocate for the right and needs of older adults during this crisis. It is imperative that older adults remain at home to avoid illness from COVID-19. This funding will allow older adults to receive the nutrition they need while avoiding crowds and gatherings.
For more information on how to obtain services in your local area, please contact your Area Agency on Aging.