From The Executive Director......

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Chief Executive Officer

DATE: May 15, 2024

RE: Older Americans Month 2024– Powered By Connection

Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time for us to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends, and strengthen our commitment to honoring our older adults.

This year’s theme, "Powered by Connection," focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults — a relationship underscored by the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.

It's not just about having someone to chat with, it's about the transformative potential of community engagement in enhancing mental, physical, and emotional well-being. By recognizing and nurturing the role that connectedness plays, we can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.

How can community groups, businesses, and organizations mark Older Americans Month?

Spread the word about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection through professional and personal networks.
Encourage social media followers to share their thoughts and stories of connection using hashtag #PoweredByConnection to inspire and uplift.
Promote opportunities to engage, like cultural activities, recreational programs, and interactive virtual events.
Connect older adults with local services, such as counseling, that can help them overcome obstacles to meaningful relationships and access to support systems.
Host connection-centric events or programs where older adults can serve as mentors to peers, younger adults, or youths.

What can individuals do to connect?

Invite more connection into your life by finding a new passion, joining a social club, taking a class, or trying new activities in your community.
Stay engaged in your community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.
Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.

On May 15, 2024, the Board of Directors of the East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging voted to proclaim May as Older Americans Month for the counties of Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, McLean, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion in East Central Illinois. View the Proclamation.

For more information, visit the official OAM website, follow ECIAAA on Facebook, and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Chief Executive Officer

DATE: March 11, 2024

RE: FY 2025 Governor Pritzker’s Proposed Budget – Illinois Aging Budget

On February 21, 2024, Governor J.B. Pritzker submitted the proposed FY 2025 Illinois operating budget to the members of the General Assembly and people of the State of Illinois. The $52.7 billion operating budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1st represents a 6% increase compared to the FY 2024 budget. The introduced budget includes proposed reductions in operating budgets of State Agencies from reduced travel and improved efficiencies.

FY 2024 Introduced Budget Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) – Total General Funds increase of 11.5%:

Fund Name	FY 2024 Enacted Appropriations	FY 2025 Governor’s Introduced	Change from FY 2024 $	Percentage Change from FY 2024 %
General Revenue Fund	$461,079,788	$619,997,300	$158,917,522	34.5%
Commitment to Human Services Fund	$964,693,700	$971,162,100	$6,468,400	0.7%
Other State Funds	$7,745,000	$7,745,000	$0	0%
Federal Funds	$185,518,200	$164,395,400	-$21,122,800	-11.4%
Total All Funds	$1,619,036,678	$1,763,299,800	$144,263,122	+8.9%

The decrease in Federal funds reflects the readjusting to pre-pandemic levels of appropriations spending authority.

FY 2025 Introduced Budget – Illinois Department on Aging Budget Highlights:

Budget Highlights

Both a $54.6 million supplemental for the Community Care Program (CCP); and, a $3.5 million supplemental for Care Coordination Units (CCUs) are recommended in fiscal year 2024. The recommended fiscal year 2025 budget maintains funding at the new level for CCU.
The recommended fiscal year 2025 budget includes $104.4 million increase in funding for CCP to accommodate caseload growth and utilization and to cover the costs of annualizing the January 1, 2024 $1.15 per hour rate increase for in-home providers. The CCP helps senior citizens, who might otherwise need nursing home care, remain in their own homes by providing in-home and community-based services.
The recommended fiscal year 2025 budget includes $3.0 million to meet increased demand for Home Delivered Meals. The Aging Network provides more than 11 million meals to homebound older adults across the state.
The recommended fiscal year 2025 budget includes maintenance State funding to support Illinois Family Caregiver Act services. AARP has estimated that in Illinois, over 1.3 million unpaid, informal (family/friends) caregivers provide support their loved ones – preventing premature institutionalization.
The recommended fiscal year 2025 budget includes maintenance State funding to support services in rural areas and increased outreach to minority communities.
The recommended fiscal year 2025 budget includes a $21.1 million reduction in federal funds appropriations due to exhausted COVID relief funding.

FY 2025 Budget Action by the Illinois General Assembly – May 24, 2024.
Illinois lawmakers will take on the review and approval of a final FY 2025 budget during the spring session of the 103rd Illinois General Assembly. We will keep you posted as negotiations develop.

ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support older adults, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in east central Illinois.

FY 2025 Proposed Budget in Brief FY 2025 Proposed Operating Budget

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director/Chief Executive Director

DATE: November 16, 2023

RE: November is National Family Caregivers Month

November is National Family Caregivers Month! Please join me in recognizing and honoring family caregivers in East Central Illinois. Celebrating family caregivers during National Family Caregiver Month gives us a chance to celebrate the efforts taken to support the estimated 1.3 million caregivers in Illinois. Their collective effort results in 1.23 billion hours of unpaid care annually at an economic value of $21 billion. Please take a minute to review the following:

Raise Awareness of Family Caregiver Issues: Illinois Family Caregiver Resolution. On November 10, 2023, the Illinois Family Caregiver Resolution was filed as HR506 by the Illinois General Assembly. This is the first time Illinois has adopted a Resolution recognizing the estimated 1.3 million Illinois family caregivers providing care to care-recipients to help make it possible for older adults, people with disabilities and veterans to live independently in their homes and communities, and they are the backbone of the care system in Illinois and across the United States. We wish to thank AARP, Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A), and the Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition for launching this effort. View the Illinois Resolution.
Presidential Proclamation 2023: On October 31, President Biden Proclaimed November 2023 as National Family Caregiver Month. In a press release, President Biden recognized the love and sacrifice of millions of American caregivers by stating… “Let us celebrate and honor our caregivers and renew our efforts to protect their dignity, health and security. Because when we care for caregivers, we honor our American ideals and mover closer to a future where not one in this Nation is left behind.” View the President’s Proclamation.
Celebrate the Efforts of Family Caregivers: On September 20, 2023, ECIAAA proudly recognized our nine (9) Caregiver Advisory Programs, sixteen (16) Caregiver Advisors (staff), and ten (10) Caregiver Champions (5 family caregivers and 5 grandparents/relatives raising grandchildren/children) during the Annual Luncheon. During FY 2022, the ECIAAA Caregiver Advisory Programs served over 1,100 caregivers and grandparents/relatives raising grandchildren/children. View ECIAAA’s presentation honoring the Caregiver Advisory Programs and Caregiver Champions.
Educate Family Caregivers About Self-Identification: As a member of the Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition (IFCC) and under the leadership of Amy Brennan, IFCC Director, we are working with many partner agencies to better target the estimated 1.3 million family caregivers in Illinois. We are working on ways to refine our messaging – so help family caregivers recognize that they are caregivers and are eligible to receive supportive services. To support our cause, please join the Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition.
Increase Support for Family Caregivers: ECIAAA, in conjunction with I4A and the Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition, interviewed twenty-five family caregivers across Illinois. The stories were extremely powerful as they described each caregiver’s journey. In addition, we used the stories to help with I4A’s advocacy efforts to increase funding support through the Illinois General Assembly and U.S. Congress. View the synopsis of Illinois Family Caregiver Stories collected during 2023.
Reduce Feelings of Isolation: ECIAAA has launched several pilot projects to help reduce social isolation among older adults, including family caregivers. Plus, we currently fund the Stress Busting for Family Caregivers program. In addition, ECIAAA has adopted as a local initiative, the development and designation of Dementia Friendly America Communities in East Central Illinois. Finally, we value our partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association in bringing programs and support to family caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias.
Graphics for Social Media Posts: Please utilize the variety of social media graphics down below to promote National Family Caregivers Month with us!

Advocacy Image #1 Advocacy Image #2 Advocacy Image #3

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: June 27, 2023

RE: FY 2024 Budget Highlights- State & Federal

As State Fiscal Year 2023 comes to a close, I wanted to take this opportunity to highlight state and federal budget items affecting older adults in Illinois. The Illinois Department on Aging’s budget was approved by the Illinois General Assembly as first introduced by Governor Pritzker, marking increased funding in several programs.

Illinois Department on Aging Budget Highlights

$1.3 million to assist with gaps in senior service access throughout the state.
An additional $1.3 million to support last year’s investment of $4 million for a total of $5.3 million to enhance support services available to unpaid family caregivers.
$1.2 million to expand outreach efforts in targeted communities, to better reach and serve Illinois’ growing population of historically marginalized older adults.
An increase of $8 million for a total of $52.3 million in state funds for home-delivered meals to maintain current Home Delivered Meal levels after ARPA funds are depleted.
$1 million to sustain Reducing Social Isolation among Older Adults Initiatives launched by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) during FY 2020 and continued through FY 2023.
$1 million to sustain Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias programming launched by AAAs during FY 2022 and continued in FY 2023.

Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for Medicaid Residents in Nursing Homes Approved Increase from $30 to $60

Section 60-5. The Illinois Public Aid Code has been amended by adding Section 5-35 as follows:

(305 ILCS 5/5-35.5 new) Sec. 5-35.5. Personal needs allowance; nursing home residents. Subject to federal approval, on or after January 1, 2024, for a person who is a resident in a facility licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act for whom payments are made under this Article throughout a month and who is determined to be eligible for medical assistance under this Article, the monthly personal needs allowance shall be $60.

Thank you to ECIAAA’s Long Term Care Ombudsmen for their fantastic work advocating for this PNA increase to $60!

Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023: How It Will Affect Older Illinoisans?

The debt ceiling bill caps overall spending levels for non-defense discretionary (NDD) programs for FY 2024 and FY 2025. This amounts to freezing overall spending levels at the FY 2022 level. NOTE: Older Americans Act (OAA) funding falls under NDD programs. Since the older adult population is increasing every year, with the funding held at FY 2022 levels, older adults will face reduced services during upcoming fiscal years. This spending cap will make it tougher to advocate for increases in OAA funding, specifically OAA Title III-B funds which have seen little to no increases over many years. One positive note, Older Americans Act COVID-19 funding was not affected since this funding was already obligated to the states.

Wewillcontinueadvocacy

Enclosures: Approved IDOA Budget

ECIAAA Personal Needs Allowance Infographic

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: May 17, 2023

RE: Older Americans Month 2023– Aging Unbound

This year’s theme, Aging Unbound, offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.

This May, join us as we recognize the 60^th anniversary of OAM and challenge the narrative on aging. Here are some ways we can all participate in Aging Unbound:

Embrace the opportunity to change: Find a new passion, go on an adventure, and push boundaries by not letting age define your limits. Invite creativity and purpose into your life by trying new activities in your community to bring in more growth, joy, and energy.
Explore the rewards of growing older: With age comes knowledge, which provides insight and confidence to understand and experience the world more deeply. Continue to grow that knowledge through reading, listening, classes, and creative activities.
Stay engaged in your community: Everyone benefits when everyone is connected and involved. Stay active by volunteering, working, mentoring, participating in social clubs, and taking part in activities at your local senior center or elsewhere in the community.
Form relationships: As an essential ingredient of well-being, relationships can enhance your quality of life by introducing new ideas and unique perspectives. Invest time with people to discover deeper connections with family, friends, and community members.

On May 17, 2023, the Board of Directors of the East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging voted to proclaim May as Older Americans Month for the counties of Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, McLean, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion in East Central Illinois. View the Proclamation here.

For more information, visit the official OAM website, follow ECIAAA on Facebook, and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: February 23, 2023

RE: FY 2024 Governor Pritzker’s Proposed Budget – Illinois Aging Budget

On February 15, 2023, Governor J.B. Pritzker submitted the proposed FY 2024 Illinois operating budget to the members of the General Assembly and people of the State of Illinois. The $49.6 billion operating budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1^st represents a 0.7% decrease compared to the FY 2023 budget. The introduced budget includes proposed reductions in operating budgets of State Agencies from reduced travel and improved efficiencies.

FY 2024 Introduced Budget Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) – Total General Funds increase of 12.7%:

Fund Name	FY 2023 Enacted Appropriations ($ thousands)	FY 2024 Governor’s Introduced ($ thousands)	Change from FY 2023 ($ thousands)	Percentage Change from FY 2023 %
General Revenue Funds	$385,565.7	$434,504.8	$48,939.1	12.7%
Commitment to Human Services Fund	$957,758.7	$964,693.7	$6935.0	0.7%
Federal Funds	$309,491.3	$185,518.2	-$117,973.1	-38.9%
Other State funds	$6,745.0	$7,745.0	$1,000.0	14.8%
Total All funds	$1,653,560.7	$1,592,461.7	-$61,099.0	-3.7%

The decrease in Federal funds reflects the readjusting to pre-pandemic levels of appropriations spending authority.

FY 2024 Introduced Budget – Illinois Department on Aging Budget Highlights:

In response to ongoing challenges within the in-home care worker universe, the Department submitted a proposed amendment to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid to increase the rate for in-home care workers effective upon approval from $25.66 to $26.92, which is a $49.5 million investment of state funds in FY 24.
The FY 24 Governor’s Proposed Budget includes funding that will allow for additional waiver services, creating new care opportunities for Illinois seniors. This opportunity for expansion of CCP is due to Federal FMAP incentive payments under the American Rescue Plan.
$1.3 million to assist with gaps in senior service access throughout the state.
An additional $1.3 million to support last year’s investment of $4 million for a total of $5.3 million to enhance support services available to unpaid family caregivers.
$1.2 million to expand outreach efforts in targeted communities, to better reach and serve Illinois’ growing population of historically marginalized older adults.
An increase of $8 million for a total of $52.3 million in state funds for home-delivered meals to maintain current Home Delivered Meal levels after ARPA funds are depleted.
$1 million to sustain Reducing Social Isolation among Older Adults Initiatives launched by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) during FY 2020 and continued through FY 2023.
$1 million to sustain Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias programming launched by AAAs during FY 2022 and continued in FY 2023.

FY 2024 Budget Action by the Illinois General Assembly – May 19, 2023.

Illinois lawmakers will take on the review and approval of a final FY 2024 budget during the spring session of the 103rd Illinois General Assembly. We will keep you posted as negotiations develop.

View Proposed FY 2024 Budget in Brief

View Proposed FY 2024 Operating Budget

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: January 3, 2023

RE: FY 2023 Appropriations Bill- Final Federal Budget

On Thursday, December 29, 2022, President Biden signed a $1.7 trillion omnibus appropriations bill funding government operations through September 2023. Overall, the bill includes $2.5 billion for the Administration for Community Living, an increase of $220 million above FY 2022. (Sources: USAging and Meals on Wheels America)

Older Americans Act (OAA):

$410 million, an increase of $11 million (2.7 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for OAA Title III BHome & Community-Based Supportive Services.
$1.1 billion, an increase of $100 million (10 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for OAATitle III C Nutrition Services.
$205 million, an increase of $11 million (5.6 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for OAATitle III E National Family Caregiver Support Program.
$50.2 million, an increase of $2.7 million (5.6 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for OAA Title VI Native American Nutrition, Supportive and Caregiver Services.
$26.2 million, an increase of $1.5 million (6 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for OAA Title III D Evidence-Based Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.
$26.6 million, an increase of $2 million (8 percent) over FY 2022 levels for OAA Title VII Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Other Key Programs:

$10 million, an increase of nearly $1 million (12 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for Lifespan Respite Carereceived for a total of to address existing gaps in respite care for older adults and people with disabilities.
$237 million, an increase of $6.1 million (2.6 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level in funding for the three programs under the AmeriCorps Seniors umbrella—RSVP, the Foster Grandparent Program, and the Senior Companion Program.
$405 million for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (Title V of the Older Americans Act), which is level funding.
$5.5 million, an increase of $1.5 million (37.5 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for the Community Care Corps grant program within funding for Aging Network Support Activities.
$804.3 million, a $49.3 million increase (6.5 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for the Community Services Block Grant. The Social Services Block Grant received level funding at $1.7 billion. $4 billion, a $200 million increase (0.1 percent) for discretionary funding of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program(LIHEAP).
Funding for Aging and Disability Resource Centers remains at $8.1 million.
$55 million, an increase of $2 million (3.7 percent) above the FY 2022 enacted level for State Health Insurance Assistance Programs.
The bill also encourages ACL to coordinate with the Department of Labor to identify and reduce barriers to entry for a diverse and high-quality direct care workforce, and to explore new strategies for the recruitment, retention and advancement opportunities needed to attract or retain direct care workers.

Final Note:

Overall, the majority of the Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and services received increases for 2023, although most increases were modest when compared to the President’s original budget request, as well as the House Appropriations Committee’s request. The original requests better reflected the need for enhanced resources for the Aging Network given growing demand and workforce challenges.

The funding bill represents a bipartisan effort to finalize the budget for FY 2023, eliminating the uncertainty of funding for the Aging Network. ECIAAA wishes to thank the Illinois Congressional Delegation for supporting Older Americans Act services for FY 2023.

To review these proposed allocations in a chart format, please click here to view USAging’ s appropriations chart.

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: December 5, 2022

RE: Final Grant Awards for FY 2023

The East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging (ECIAAA) announces the Older Americans Act (OAA) and Illinois General Revenue Fund (GRF) awards for FY 2023. Funding supports programs that help over 23,000 vulnerable older adults live with independence and dignity in their homes and communities in East Central Illinois. Funding also supports family non-paid caregivers of older adults, grandparents raising grandchildren, and individuals with disabilities. A total of $7,769,326 in OAA/GRF funding was awarded to the following community based organizations in the counties of Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, McLean, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion.

SARAH BUSH LINCOLN PEACE MEAL NUTRITION PROGRAM

$1,161,698 for the following services by county:
- Congregate and Home Delivered Meals – Clark, Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Moultrie and Shelby

CRIS HEALTHY-AGING CENTER

$1,231,601 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Champaign & Vermilion
- Reducing Social Isolation- Champaign and Vermilion
- Congregate & Home Delivered Meals – Vermilion
- Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – Champaign & Vermillion
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren - Champaign & Vermilion
- Respite for Family Caregivers – Vermilion
- Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary & Training Support – Vermilion

STARTING POINT/MACON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

$272,259 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Macon
- Reducing Social Isolation- Macon
- Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – Macon
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Macon
- Respite for Family Caregivers – Macon

LIVINGSTON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

$964 for the following services by county:
- Respite Services for Caregivers – Livingston

CARE HORIZON

$9,542 for the following services:
- Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training – Champaign Clark, Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Moultrie, Piatt, and Shelby
- Respite for Family Caregivers – Champaign, Coles, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar & Piatt

COMMUNITY CARE SYSTEMS, INC

$602,532 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – DeWitt, Livingston, McLean & Shelby
- Reducing Social Isolation- McLean
- Gerontological Counseling – McLean
- Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – McLean, Livingston & DeWitt
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren –McLean, DeWitt and Livingston
- Respite for Family Caregivers – Clark, Cumberland, McLean, Moultrie & Shelby

CATHOLIC CHARITIES MEALS ON WHEELS

$911,695 for the following services by county:
- Reducing Social Isolation- Macon
- Congregate and Home Delivered Meals – Macon
- Evidence Based/Matter of Balance – Macon

FAMILY SERVICE

$167,141 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling-Douglas
- Reducing Social Isolation-Champaign, Douglas
- Gerontological Counseling – Champaign
- Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – Champaign
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Piatt

CHELP

$3,583 for the following services by county:
- Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training Support- Macon, DeWitt, McLean, and Livingston

VOLUNTEER SERVICE OF IROQUOIS COUNTY

$83,914 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Iroquois

LIFE CENTER

$178,453 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Clark & Cumberland
- Reducing Social Isolation- Clark & Cumberland
- Evidence Based/Matter of Balance – Clark & Cumberland
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren- Clark & Cumberland

CHESTER P. SUTTON COMMUNITY CENTER OF EDGAR COUNTY

$108,639 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling - Edgar
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren - Edgar

PIATT COUNTY SERVICES FOR SENIORS

$52,568 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Piatt

COLES COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING

$168,272 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Coles
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Coles

MID-ILLINOIS SERVICES FOR SENIORS

$137,776 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Moultrie
- Caregiver Advisor Services for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Douglas, Moultrie and Shelby

LAND OF LINCOLN LEGAL ASSISTANCE

$75,388 for the following services by county:
- Legal Services – Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby, and Vermilion

PRAIRIE STATE LEGAL SERVICES

$26,663 for the following services by county:
- Legal Services – Iroquois, Livingston, and McLean

FORD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

$125,761 for the following services by county:
- Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Ford
- Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Ford
- Respite for Caregivers – Ford
- Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training Support – Ford & Iroquois

IROQUOIS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

$882 for the following service by county:
- Respite for Caregivers – Iroquois

The ARC

$14,700 for the following service by county:
- Reducing Social Isolation – McLean

OSF PEACE MEAL NUTRITION PROGRAM

$2,435,295 for the following service by county:
- Congregate and Home Delivered Meals – Champaign, DeWitt, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, Piatt, and McLean

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: October 5, 2022

RE: FY 2023 Older Americans Act Funding Update

According to USAging, Congress passed, and the President signed a short-term funding bill that prevents a government shutdown. This short-term funding bill, known as a continuing resolution (CR), will continue to fund the government at FY 2022 funding levels through December 16, 2022. This will allow Congress more time to negotiate a final FY 2023 spending bill after the November elections.

While the CR freezes most government spending at FY 2022 levels, the bill will also:

Provide $1 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program to assist families with the costs of heating and cooling, and to help mitigate the effects of rising energy costs and extreme weather.

Authorize the U.S. Department of Transportation to extend the availability of funds awarded under its National Infrastructure Investment Grants program through FY 2023.

Increase the cap on spending for the Social Security Administration’s administrative expenses to $13.6 billion, up from $13.2 billion.

Provide $2 billion for HUD’s Community Development Block Grant to address unmet recovery needs in communities experiencing major disasters in 2021 and 2022.

Extend funding through December 16, 2022 for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

As Congress proceeds with negotiations, we will continue to advocate for an increase in FY 2023 funding for Older Americans Act (OAA) programs. The President’s budget and proposed House Appropriations Committee’s budget include needed increases, especially for Title III-B Home and Community-Based Supportive Services. The Senate bill was less generous but still reflected an increase over FY 2022 levels for the OAA. Our next step is to advocate for a fully approved budget instead of relying on CR extensions. CRs will constrain OAA programs since FY 2022 funding was insufficient, and many states are beginning to deplete their infusion of COVID-19 relief funding.

To review these proposed allocations in a chart format, please click here to view USAging’ s appropriations chart.

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: August 17, 2022

RE: FY 2023 Federal Funding Bills

The Senate Appropriations Committee released all 12 appropriates bills for FY 2023. Overall, the bills increase non-defense discretionary spending by 13.5 percent. Both the House and Senate bills will serve as a starting point for future negotiations. (Sources: USAging)

Older Americans Act (OAA) Proposed Allocations - Senate:

$430 million, a proposed increase of $31 million (+8%) above the FY 2022-enacted level for OAA Title III BHome & Community-Based Supportive Services.
$ 1 billion for OAATitle III C Nutrition Services, a proposed $64 million above the FY 2022-enacted level with $550 million (+3%) for congregate meals and $320 million (+10%) for home-delivered meals and $160 million (sustained funding level) for the Nutrition Services Incentive Program.
$220 million, a proposed increase of $26 million (+13 percent) above the FY 2022-enacted level for OAATitle III E National Family Caregiver Support Program.
$47.5 million, in sustained funding, for OAA Title VI Native American Nutrition, Supportive and Caregiver Services with Part A received $36.2 million, and Part C receiving $11.3 million.
A total of $26.3 million, a proposed increase of $1.4 million (+6%) over FY 2022 levels for the for OAA Title III D Evidence-BasedHealth Promotion and Disease Prevention.
$40 million, a proposed increase of $15 million (+61 percent) over FY 2022 levels for the OAA Title VII Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Other Key Programs:

$14 million, a proposed increase of $5.9 million (+73%) in funding under the Lifespan Respite Care Program to address existing gaps in respite care for older adults and people with disabilities.
$239 million, a proposed increase of $9 million in funding for the three programs under the AmeriCorps Seniorsumbrella—RSVP, the Foster Grandparent Program, and the Senior Companion Program.
$770 million, a proposed increase of $15 million above FY 2022-enacted levels for Community Services Block Grant. $1.7 billion in sustained funding for the Social Services Block Grant. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program(LIHEAP) proposes nearly $200 million increase for discretionary funding of $4 billion.
Proposed funding for Aging and Disability Resource Centers remains at $8 million.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs proposed level funding at $53.1 million.

To review these proposed allocations in a chart format, please click here to view USAging’ s appropriations chart.

Next Steps:

Our goal is to advocate for bipartisan support to maintain these proposed increases in OAA funding in the final appropriations bill. Please join me in that effort!

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: March 11, 2022

RE: FY 2022 Appropriations Bill- Final Federal Budget

The U.S. Congress passed the FY 2022 omnibus appropriations package, known as the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022" (H.R.2471), which is on its way to the President’s desk for his signature. The $1.5 trillion spending package will fund the government for the remainder of the Fiscal Year (FY 2022) and provide emergency aid to Ukraine. Funding details are provided below. (Sources: USAging and Meals on Wheels America):

Older Americans Act (OAA):

$398.5 million, an increase of $6 million (1.5 percent) above the FY 2021 enacted level for OAA Title III BHome & Community-Based Supportive Services.
$967 million, an increase of $15 million (1.5 percent) above the FY 2021 enacted level for OAATitle III C Nutrition Services.
$194 million, an increase of $5 million (2.6 percent) above the FY 2021 enacted level for OAATitle III E National Family Caregiver Support Program.
$47.5 million, an overall increase of $1.5 million (3.2 percent) above FY 2021 enacted level, for OAA Title VI Native American Nutrition, Supportive and Caregiver Services. Part A received a $1 million increase for a total of $36.2 million and Part C received $500 thousand for a total of $11.3 million, respectively.
Level funding at $24.8 million for OAA Title III D Evidence-BasedHealth Promotion and Disease Prevention.
$24.6 million, an increase of $1 million (4.2 percent) over FY 2021 levels for the OAA Title VII Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Other Key Programs:

Lifespan Respite Carereceived an increase of $1 million (14 percent) for a total of $8.1 million to address existing gaps in respite care for older adults and people with disabilities.
$231 million, an increase of $6 million (2.7 percent) in funding for the three programs under the AmeriCorps Seniorsumbrella—RSVP, the Foster Grandparent Program, and the Senior Companion Program.
$405 million for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (Title V of the Older Americans Act), which is level funding.
$4 million for the Community Care Corps grant program within funding for Aging Network Support Activities.
The Community Services Block Grant received a $10 million increase (1.3 percent) above FY 2021 levels for a total of $755 million, while the Social Services Block Grant received identical funding at $1.7 billion. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program(LIHEAP) level reflected a $50 million increase for discretionary funding of $3.8 billion.
Funding for Aging and Disability Resource Centers remains at $8 million.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs received an additional $1 million (1.9 percent) over FY 2021 levels for a total of $53 million.
The bill also encourages ACL to coordinate with the Department of Labor to identify and reduce barriers to entry for a diverse and high-quality direct care workforce, and to explore new strategies for the recruitment, retention and advancement opportunities needed to attract or retain direct care workers.
The bill provides $1 billion to the Section 202 Housing for the Elderly program, an increase of $178 million from FY 2021 enacted levels.
Funding levels remain stagnant at $7.5 million in technical assistance and training activities for the Federal Transit Administration, the funding source for the USAging and Easterseals-led National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC). NADTC assists local communities and states in the expansion and provision of transportation services for older adults and people with disabilities.

Next Steps:

ECIAAA will continue to advocate for increased Older Americans Act funding to sustain services to growing aging population in East Central Illinois. Please refer to USAging’s Appropriations Chart updated March 10, 2022.

The final bill reflects significant reductions to what was contained in the President’s FY22 budget request, and in House and Senate proposed Older Americans Act appropriation levels. ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support older adults, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in East Central Illinois.

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: February 11, 2022

RE: FY 2023 Governor Pritzker’s Proposed Budget – Illinois Aging Budget

On February 2, 2022, Governor J.B. Pritzker submitted the FY 2023 Illinois operating budget the members of the General Assembly and people of the State of Illinois. The $45.4 billion operating budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1^st represents a 3.4% decrease when compared to the FY 2022 budget estimates. Proposed reductions in operating budgets of State Agencies due to reduced travel and improved efficiencies have also been factored in the introduced FY 2023 budget.

FY 2023 Introduced Budget Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) – Total increase of 13.6%:

Dir Report 21122 graph

FY 2023 Introduced Budget – Illinois Department on Aging Budget Highlights:

Program Highlights

Home Delivered Meals (HDMs): $14.2 M increase to meet the increased demands for HDMs as a result of the pandemic. The increase will allow Area Agencies on Aging:
- Expand the provision of cultural/ethnic meals
- Add medically tailored meals
- Provide two meals per day for older adults determined to be at high nutritional risk
- Expand partnerships with non-traditional meal providers, including restaurants and hospitals
Caregiver Support: An increase of $4 M to Area Agencies on Aging to strengthen services to caregivers in Illinois. One of the greatest benefits of these services is to reduce social isolation among older adults and enhance support for family caregivers to avoid burnout and premature placement in a long-term care facility.
$1 M to sustain Reducing Social Isolation among Older Adults Initiatives launched by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) during FY 2020, FY 2021, and FY 2022.
$ 1 M to sustain Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias programming launched by AAAs during FY 2022.
$ 9.2 M increase to support the Illinois Adult Protective Services Program.
$ 3.6 M Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) sustained funding.
$ 2.3 M increase to support the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.
Community Care Program. An increase of $14.2 M to fund rate increases for Community Care Program providers beginning January 1, 2023.

FY 2023 Budget Action by the Illinois General Assembly – April 8, 2022.

Illinois lawmakers will take on the review and approval of a final FY 2023 budget during the final spring session of the 102^nd Illinois General Assembly. The General Assembly instituted an abbreviated schedule this spring with final budget appropriations expected by April 8, 2022. We will keep you posted!

ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at

1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support older adults, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in east central Illinois.

SCR:sr

Enclosures: IDOA FY 2023 Introduced Budget Presentation

IDOA FY 2023 Detailed Budget Pages

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: December 9, 2021

RE: FY2022 OAA Funding Update

According to Meals on Wheels America, on December 2nd, Congress passed H.R. 6119, the Further Extending Government Funding Act, by votes of 221-212 in the House of Representatives and 69-28 in the Senate. H.R. 6119 is a continuing resolution (CR) – or short-term spending bill – that would extend current federal funding levels until February 18, 2022. As a reminder, federal funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 has not yet been finalized, and this is the second CR that Congress has needed to pass to prevent a government shutdown and keep federal agencies and programs operating. This latest CR will temporarily extend FY 2021 funding levels for another 11 weeks, giving Congress more time to complete spending negotiations and pass all 12 outstanding annual appropriations bills.

As Congress proceeds with its negotiations, we continue to advocate for an increase in FY 2022 funding for the Older Americans Act (OAA) programs. We are also urging Congress to pass and the President to sign into law all FY 2022 appropriations bills before this second CR expires on February 18. As CRs only extend current appropriations levels, they do not allow for the annual funding increases that are essential to the senior nutrition network, especially as your reach to help older adults has further expanded during the pandemic.

East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging Announces

FINAL Grant Awards for FY 2022

BLOOMINGTON – The East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging (ECIAAA) announces the Older Americans Act (OAA) and Illinois General Revenue Fund (GRF) awards for FY 2022. Funding supports programs that help over 23,000 vulnerable older adults live with independence and dignity in their homes and communities in East Central Illinois. A total of $6,764,118 in OAA/GRF funding was awarded to the following community-based organizations in the counties of Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, McLean, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion.

SARAH BUSH LINCOLN MEDICAL CENTER- PEACE MEAL NUTRITION PROGRAM - $1,103,039 for the following services by county:

Congregate and Home Delivered Meals Service Area: Counties of Clark, Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Moultrie and Shelby

CRIS HEALTHY-AGING CENTER - $977,839 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Champaign & Vermilion

Reducing Social Isolation- Champaign & Vermilion

Congregate & Home Delivered Meals – Vermilion & Champaign

Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – Champaign & Vermillion

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren - Champaign & Vermilion

Respite for Family Caregivers – Vermilion

Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary & Training Support – Vermilion

STARTING POINT/MACON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT - $215,390 for the following services:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Macon. NOTE: Includes CPoE/SIS Consortium Partners - CHELP & Decatur-Macon County Senior Center.

Reducing Social Isolation- Macon

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Macon

Respite for Family Caregivers – Macon

LIVINGSTON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT - $833 for Respite Services for Caregivers

CARE HORIZON – $8,688 for the following services by county:

Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training – Clark, Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar Moultrie & Shelby

Respite for Family Caregivers – Champaign, Coles, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar & Piatt

COMMUNITY CARE SYSTEMS, INC - $539,447 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – DeWitt, Livingston, McLean & Shelby

Reducing Social Isolation- McLean

Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – McLean, Livingston & DeWitt

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – DeWitt, Livingston & McLean

Respite for Family Caregivers – Clark, Cumberland, McLean, Moultrie & Shelby

CATHOLIC CHARITIES MEALS ON WHEELS - $816,161 for the following services by county:

Reducing Social Isolation- Macon

Congregate and Home Delivered Meals – Macon

Evidence Based/Matter of Balance – Macon, Moultrie, Piatt & Shelby

FAMILY SERVICE - $140,160 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling-Douglas

Reducing Social Isolation-Champaign & Douglas

Gerontological Counseling – Champaign

Evidence Based/Healthy Aging Programs – Champaign

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Piatt

Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training – Champaign & Piatt

CHELP - $3,567 for the following services by county:

Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training Support for DeWitt & Macon

VOLUNTEER SERVICE OF IROUQUOIS COUNTY - $79,738 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Iroquois

LIFE CENTER - $148,330 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Clark & Cumberland

Reducing Social Isolation- Clark & Cumberland

Evidence Based/Matter of Balance – Clark & Cumberland

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren- Clark & Cumberland

CHESTER P. SUTTON COMMUNITY CENTER OF EDGAR COUNTY - $83,697 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling - Edgar

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren - Edgar

PATH - $3,567 for the following services by county:

Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training Support for McLean & Livingston

PIATT COUNTY SERVICES FOR SENIORS - $50,985 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Piatt

COLES COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING - $126,286 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Coles

Reducing Social Isolation- Coles

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Coles

MID-ILLINOIS SERVICES FOR SENIORS - $103,796 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Moultrie

Caregiver Advisor Services for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Douglas, Moultrie & Shelby

LAND OF LINCOLN LEGAL ASSISTANCE - $70,217 for the following services by county:

Legal Services– of Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion

PRAIRIE STATE LEGAL SERVICES - $24,834 for the following services by county:

Legal Services – Iroquois, Livingston & McLean

FORD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT - $81,275 for the following services by county:

Coordinated Point of Entry/Senior Information Services/Options Counseling – Ford

Caregiver Advisor for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Ford

Respite for Family Caregivers – Ford

Adult Protective Services Multidisciplinary Team/Training Support – Ford & Iroquois

IROQUOIS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT - $774 for the following service by county:

Respite for Family Caregivers – Iroquois

ARC- ACTIVITY & RECREATION CENTER - $15,500 for the following service by county:

Reducing Social Isolation-McLean

OSF-MEDICAL CENTER PEACE MEAL NUTRIITON PROGRAM- $2,118,743 for the following service by county:

Congregate and Home Delivered Meals – Champaign, DeWitt, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, McLean, and Piatt

To Be Determined: $36,671

Caregiver Advisory Services for Family Caregivers & Grandparents Raising Grandchildren- Iroquois County

For more information, please contact Susan C. Real, Executive Director, at 309-829-2065 or email at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: August 3, 2021

RE: COVID-19 DELTA Variant Spreading Among Unvaccinated Illinoisans

The Illinois Department of Public Health is fully adopting updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) masking recommendations to protect against COVID-19 and the Delta variant. While the data continues to show the effectiveness of the three COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized in the U.S., including against the Delta variant, the virus is rapidly spreading among the unvaccinated according to Dr. Ngozi Ezike, IDPH Director. Until more people are vaccinated, Illinois joins CDC in recommending everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask indoors in areas of substantial and high community transmissions.

This comes at a time when Senior Centers and Congregate Dining Sites are re-opening in East Central Illinois. We are extremely concerned that older adults are at further risk of being exposed to COVID-19 in counties with substantial and high levels of community transmission. ALL sixteen (16) counties served by ECIAAA have registered at substantial or high levels of community transmission (according to the CDC). ECIAAA has developed a county breakdown of vaccination rates and level of community transmission which you can view here. According to the CDC, the Delta variant is much more contagious, and spreads more than twice as easily compared to other strains. Since all counties in the ECIAAA service area have substantial or high community transmission, according the the CDC guidance, both unvaccinated and vaccinated individuals should wear masks indoors. Therefore, wearing masks in congregate settings is a critical safety measure and is strongly encouraged. Finally, if you haven’t received your vaccination yet, please do so – lives can be saved!

ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support older adults, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in east central Illinois.
Be Safe & Be Well!

For more information on Vaccination rates and Community transmission you can visit
Illinois Department of Health
CDC Data Tracker
ECIAAA County Breakdown

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS

FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director

DATE: June 14, 2021

RE: Federal & State Update –Proposed FY 2022 Older Americans Act (OAA) Budget & Approved FY 2022 Illinois Aging Budget

Federal Level - President Biden’s FY 2022 Budget Proposal

(Source – n4a Legislative Update June 8, 2021)

On May 28, President Biden released his FY 2022 budget request, providing Congress clear direction on the Administration’s policy priorities which includes increased in spending levels for discretionary federal programs like the Older Americans Act (OAA).

OAA Title III B Supportive Services & Centers: The proposed budget includes an increase of $158 M, resulting in a 40% increase for FY 2022. The total recommendation for OAA Title III B is $551 M. This has been a top priority for OAA advocates since funding has not kept pace with the demand for supportive services.

OAA Title III C Nutrition Services: The proposed budget includes a net increase of $390 million, resulting in a 41% increase for FY 2022. The total recommendation for OAA Title III C1 is $469 M and the total recommendation for OAA Title III C2 is $703 M. The Nutrition Services Incentive Program funds could see an increase from $160 M to $169 M. The Administration recognizes how the Area Agencies on Aging and their service partners responded to the demand in nutrition services during the pandemic.

OAA Title III D Evidence-Based Healthy Aging Programs: Preventive health programs dedicated to evidence-based interventions received an increase of $1.5 M for FY 2022. Total amount earmarked for Title III-D is $26 M.

OAA Title III E National Family Caregiver Support Program: The proposed budget includes an increase of $61 M, resulting in a 32% increase for FY 2022. Total amount earmarked for Title III E is 250 M. Family caregivers to older adults and grandparents/relatives raising grandchildren/children suffered during the pandemic resulting in an increased demand for services.

OAA Long-Term Care Ombudsman/Elder Abuse: The proposed budget includes an increase of $11.3 M (58% increase) to support on-sitevisitation and post-pandemic in-person contact with residents in long-term care facilities. Totalamount for Title VII is $39 M.

Other Federal Programs: The Community Services Block Grant received a $9 million increase for a total of $754 M, while the Social Services Block Grant will continue to receive level funding at $1.7 B. The request for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) reflected a modest $100 M increase from last year’s budget request for discretionary funding of $3.85 billion.

What’s Next? Federal Budget Negotiations:

Our advocacy charge will continue throughout the summer for the passage of OAA funding at the proposed levels. Please refer to the n4a’s Appropriations Chart updated in May 2021.

State Level – Approved Illinois Aging Budget for FY 2022

During the early hours of June 1, 2021, the Illinois General Assembly approved the Illinois Budget for FY 2022. The FY 2022 Approved Illinois Department on Aging budget highlights are described below:

Home Delivered Meals: $6.3 M increase for the expansion of Home Delivered Meals (HDMs) to meet the increased demands as a result of COVID-19 and to address waiting lists in two planning and services areas (PSA’s).

NOTE: The approved increase is actually $5 M less than the Governor’s original amount proposed for home delivered meals.

Reducing Social Isolation: $1 M to sustain Reducing Social Isolation among Older Adults Initiatives launched by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) during FY 2020 and FY 2021.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias: $1 M to sustain Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias programming launched by AAAs during FY 2020 and FY 2021.

Community Care Program: $1 M increase to add Assistive Technology to the Community Care Program.

Adult Protective Services:$23.9 M sustained funding to support the IL Adult Protective Services Program.

Senior Health Assistance Program: $ 3.5 M Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) sustained funding.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: $2.8 M Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program sustained funding.

Approved Minimum Wage Increases effective January 1, 2022

$2.4 M to address minimum wage increases within Older Americans Act services.
$29.3 M to address the minimum wage pressures with the Community Care Program Services. The in-home services rate will go to $24.96/hour, Adult Day Services will move to $15.30/hour, and Adult Day Services Transportation rate will move to $11.29/ride.

Be Safe & Be Well!

n4a’s Appropriations Chart – May 2021

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE:    February 25, 2021
RE:           FY 2022 Governor Pritzker's Proposed Budget- Illinois Aging Budget

On February 17, 2021, Governor J.B. Pritzker submitted the FY 2022 Illinois operating budget the members of the General Assembly and people of the State of Illinois. The $41.6 billion operating budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1^st represents a 4.2% decrease when compared to theenacted FY 2021 budget. The budget relies on federal relief from the COVID-19 pandemic, transfers from other funds and the elimination of hundreds of millions of dollars of corporate tax breaks needing legislative approval. Proposed reductions in operating budgets of State Agencies due to reduced travel and improved efficiencies have also been factored in the introduced FY 2022 budget.

FY 2022 Introduced Budget Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) – Total increase of 4.3%:

Fund Name	FY 2021 Enacted Appropriations ($ thousands)	FY 2022 Governor’s Introduced ($ thousands)	Change from FY 2021 ($ thousands)	Percentage Change from FY 2021
General Revenue Funds	$402,039.5	$449,716.2	$47,676.7	11.9%
Commitment to Human Services Fund	$690,918.2	699,654.6	$8,736.4	1.3%
Federal Funds	$285,808.0	$288,379.8	$2,571.8	0.9%
Other State funds	$5,745.0	$5,745.0	$0.0	0.0%
Total All funds	$1,387,208.0	$1,446,192.9	$58,984.9	4.3%

FY 2022 Introduced Budget – Illinois Department on Aging Budget Highlights:

Program Highlights

· $11.3 M increase for the expansion of Home Delivered Meals (HDMs) to meet the increased demands as a result of COVID-19 and to address waiting lists in two planning and services areas (PSA’s).

o NOTE: From March 30^th to December 31, 2020, 10.4 million HDMs have been delivered through the Statewide Area Agencies on Aging-funded nutrition provider network with an average of 48,000 meals provided per day.

· $1 M to sustain Reducing Social Isolation among Older Adults Initiatives launched by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) during FY 2020 and FY 2021.

· $ 1 M to sustain Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias programming launched by AAAs during FY 2020 and FY 2021.

· $5 M increase to continue addressing seniors’ emergency needs through the Emergency Senior Services Program (administrated to Community Care Program clients through Care Coordination Units).

· $1 M increase to add Assistive Technology to the Community Care Program.

· $ 2 M increase to support the IL Adult Protective Services Program.

· $ 3.5 M Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) sustained funding.

· $2.8 M Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program sustained funding.

Addressing Minimum Wage Increases effective January 1, 2022

· $2.4 M to address minimum wage increases within Older Americans Act services.

· $29.3 M to address the minimum wage pressures with the Community Care Program Services. The in-home services rate will go to $24.96/hour, Adult Day Services will move to $15.30/hour, and Adult Day Services Transportation rate will to $11.29/ride.

FY 2022 Budget Action by the Illinois General Assembly – May, 2021.

Illinois lawmakers will take on the review and approval of a final FY 2022 budget during the spring session of the 102^nd Illinois General Assembly. Final budget appropriations are expected by May 31, 2021. We will keep you posted!

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE:    February 19, 2021
RE:           FY 2021 COVID-19 Vaccine Assistance – ECIAAA IL Aging Network

FY 2021 COVID-19 Vaccine Assistance - ECIAAA

We are pleased to announce that ECIAAA has received Illinois General Revenue Funds to support the ECIAAA Aging Network in providing needed COVID-19 Vaccine Assistance to older adults in east central Illinois. Thanks to the Illinois Department on Aging, ECIAAA will allocate $84,360, using our approved funding formula, to Area Agency-funded Coordinated Points of Entry/Senior Information Service (CPoE/SIS) providers to help older adults with the COVID-19 Vaccine registration process and help older adults with transportation to vaccination sites.

The ECIAAA Aging Network is the recognized leader in making sure older adults access the COVID-19 Vaccine by working with local health departments in their respective counties. The challenges facing older adults include navigating the frustrating online vaccine registration process, fluctuation in the availability of COVID-19 Vaccine which has caused cancellations ordelays in scheduled appointments, and ensuring the availability of viable transportation to older adults while making vaccine appointments.

FY 2021 COVID -19 Vaccine Expectations

ECIAAA CPoE/SIS providers serve as a “central clearinghouse” for older adults by providing on-going coordination and connection to services. The ECIAAA CPoE/SIS providers have been directed to carryout the following deliverables under this sorely needed COVID-19 Vaccine Assistance grant effective through June 30, 2021:

1. Take requests for assistance from older adults in registering for the COVID-19 Vaccine;

2. Work with local health departments by assisting older adults register for the COVID-19 Vaccine;

3. Assist older adults coordinate transportation;

4. Monitoring scheduling of 1^st and 2^nd doses of the COVID-19 Vaccine; and,

5. Verification of 1^st and 2^nd doses of the COVID-19 Vaccine.

NOTE: As one-dose COVID-19 Vaccines become available in east central Illinois, CPoE/SIS providers shall receive direction on responding to such.

ECIAAA-Designated Coordinated Points of Entry/Senior Information Service Providers

For more information and assistance, please contact your designated ECIAAA Coordinated Points of Entry/Senior Information Service (CPoE/SIS) provider outlined by county -

Champaign & Vermilion Counties - CRIS Healthy-Aging Center - 1-217-443-2999

Macon County – Starting Point Aging & Disability Resource Center/Macon County Health Department – 1-217-423-6550

McLean, DeWitt & Livingston Counties – CCSI – 1-309-661-6400

Shelby County – CCSI – 217-774-7885

Douglas County – Family Service Senior Resource Center – 1-217-352-5100

Iroquois County – Volunteer Services of Iroquois County – 1-815-432-5785

Clark & Cumberland Counties – Life Center Senior Services - 1-800-626-7701 or 1-217-849-3965

Edgar County – Chester P. Sutton Community Center of Edgar County – 1-217-465-8143

Piatt County – Piatt County Services for Seniors – 1-217-762-7575 (ext. 1)

Coles County – Coles County Telecare/LifeSpan Center – 1-217-639-5166

Moultrie County – Mid-Illinois Senior Services – 1-800-736-4675 or 1-217-728-8521

Ford County – Ford County Health Department – 1-217-376-9281

PRESS RELEASE - Statewide COVID-19 Vaccine Update - Attached

On February 17, 2021, Governor JB Pritzker and Paula Basta, Director of the Illinois Department on Aging released a joint press release on additional mass vaccination sites to facilitate equitable administration of the COVID-19 Vaccine. Please find attached the press release highlighting Illinois’ deployment of additional mobile vaccination teams to provide Vaccine access to rural and underserved communities in central and southern Illinois. East central Illinois is not included, but please note, ECIAAA continues to advocate for the deployment of such mobile units our 16-county service area in the future. IDoA COVID-19 Vaccine publications and local health department contact information can be accessed via the attached press release.

Thank you to the ECIAAA Aging Network. The administration of COVID-19 Vaccines to older adults is our priority right now! ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network in this important effort. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support older adults, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in east central Illinois. Be Safe & Stay Well!

ECIAAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE:        December 28, 2020
RE:             ECIAAA COVID-19 AGING NETWORK UPDATE

As an Aging Network, we say goodbye to 2020 during a pandemic with a final funding package to support older Americans as we welcome the new year. The amount of advocacy completed this year to secure both pandemic relief and final FY 2021 funding has been outstanding. However, we must keep up our advocacy efforts to ensure older adults receive vital services during these difficult times.

Emergency COVID-19 Relief
Congress approved the $900 billion COVID-19 aid bill that is contained in the larger legislative package includes $175 million in additional emergency funding for the Older Americans Act (OAA) Nutrition Program – specifically, $168 million for Title III-C and $7 million for Native American Nutrition Services. This bill also extends temporary OAA nutrition services flexibility through FY 2021. Even though we applaud the bipartisan effort, we are disappointed by the final package that notably leaves out emergency relief funding for other key OAA programs such as in-home services, evidence-based health promotion and disease prevention programs, and caregiver support, all of which have served as a lifeline for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Final FY 2021 Appropriations

The FY 2021 appropriations bills within this package include the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education appropriations bill, which funds OAA programs and services. For FY 2021 (now, through September 30, 2021), the OAA Nutrition Program has received an increase of $15 million, bringing total funding to $951,753,000. Other federal funding sources that support senior programs also saw increases or level funding, as outlined in the table below (Source: Meals on Wheels America):

FEDERAL PROGRAMS	FY 2021 FUNDING (compared to FY 2020 final levels)
Older Americans Act (OAA) Programs
Congregate Nutrition Program (Title III-C1)	$515,342,000 (1% increase)
Home-Delivered Nutrition Program (Title III-C2)	$276,342,000 (3.8% increase)
Nutrition Services Incentive Program (Title III)	$160,069,000 (level funded)
Home- and Community-Based Supportive Services (Title III-B)	$392,574,000 (0.6% increase)
Preventative Services (Title III-D)	$24,848,000 (level funded)
Family Caregiver Support (Title III-E)	$188,936,000 (1.6% increase)
Native American Nutrition and Supportive Services (Title VI)	$35,208,000 (1.4% increase)
Falls Prevention	$5,000,000 (level funded)
Federal Block Grant Programs
Social Services Block Grant (SSBG)	$1.7 billion (level funded)
Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)	$745,000,000 (0.7% increase)
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)	$3,450,000,000 (1.5% increase)
*Other Programs*
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)	$3,750,304,000 (0.3% increase)
Senior Corps Programs	$225,017,000 (1.8% increase)

Other Important Provisions Supporting Older Americans
As identified by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), other highlights in the final package include:

$100 million in emergency funding for the Elder Justice Act, including $50 million for Adult Protective Services, to address elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Three-year extension of the Medicaid Money Follows the Person (MFP) and spousal impoverishment programs. This is the first long-term funding secured for these activities since the previous long-term authorization expired in 2016. MFP activities will be funded at $450 million per year through 2023.
Three-year extension of funding for AAAs, SHIPs and ADRCs to conduct outreach, education, and enrollment activities to low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Securing long-term funding for these activities has been a long-term priority, and the bill increases funding to $15 million per year for AAAs and SHIPs. ADRCs will continue to receive $5 million annually.
$13 billion in increased funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which includes a 15 percent increase in the monthly benefit through June 2021. Nationally, four million older adults rely on SNAP benefits to meet their nutritional needs.
$45 billion for federal transportation programs. Of this total, $14 billion is allocated to local transit—including paratransit—programs to help curb significant state and local government cuts to vital transportation programs serving older adults and people with disabilities.
$25 billion in rental assistance and a one-month extension of the federal eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021. Congress will likely have to extend the eviction moratorium again when lawmakers convene next year to curb a widespread housing crisis—including among older Americans living in federally supported housing.
$284 billion for ongoing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans and expanded eligibility for loans to certain nonprofits. The package includes additional modifications to the program aimed at targeting very small businesses and nonprofits.
Elder Rights - OAA Title VII Long-Term Care Ombudsman and Prevention of Elder Abuse and Neglect programs and Elder Rights Support Activities, including the Elder Justice Initiative received a $1 million increase and were funded at $23.6 million.
SHIP - After years of facing stagnation, cuts and even elimination in various funding bills and budget proposals, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), was spared cuts and received level funding at $52.1 million.
Attached – please find the n4a Appropriations Chart attached for more detail.

COVID-19 Vaccination Program for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities

According to the Illinois COVID-19 Vaccination Plan, long-term care residents will start receiving vaccinations under Phase 1a today. Most Illinois long-term care providers are utilizing the partnership program established by CDC with Walgreens and CVS Pharmacies, to ensure residents and staff are vaccinated. ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman will carry out its directive of advocating on behalf of long-term residents in east central Illinois during Phase 1a of the Illinois Vaccination Plan.

Additional COVID-19 Resources: You can learn more by clicking on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 Red Link on ECIAAA’s website at www.eciaaa.org. Plus, you will also find on the website the ECIAAA COVID-19 Comprehensive Resources.

Wishing you a Happy & Safe New Year! ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support older adults, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren in east central Illinois. Be Safe & Be Well!

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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE AGING NETWORK– COVID-19 – 6th Release, August 19, 2020

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE:        August 19, 2020
RE:             ECIAAA COVID-19 AGING NETWORK UPDATE– REACTION TO ACTION!

ECIAAA COVID-19 Aging Network Update.
The Aging Network has continued to respond heroically to the coronavirus pandemic. To support such efforts, the U.S. Congress has passed two major emergency funding packages to support Older Americans Act services. Please find a description of both funding packages listed below.

Family First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) & Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020.

ECIAAA awarded $502,360 in FFCRA OAA III-C2 (home delivered meal) funds to Peace Meal Senior Nutrition, CRIS Health-Aging Center, and Catholic Charities Meals on Wheels for the purchase and delivery of shelf stable meals. NOTE: Since the end of March, PSA 05 nutrition providers distributed 75,481 shelf-stable meals, while adding 1,105 new nutrition participants to the rolls.

ECIAAA has awarded CARES Act funding outlined below to Area Agency-funded nutrition providers, Senior Information Services/Coordinated Points of Entry (SIS/CPoE) providers, and Caregiver Advisory programs.

Title III-B $275,124
Title III-C Nutrition Services- $1,085,097
Title III-E Family Caregiver Support Services - $223,572

The CARES Act funding will provide additional emergency support to Older Americans Act programming for seniors in general.

FEMA Shelf Stable Meals: During the week of June 14, 2020, ECIAAA received 45,600 FEMA emergency shelf stable meals for distribution to older adults in Illinois. Peace Meal received 35,100 meals which were delivered to their central kitchens located in Bloomington, Mattoon and Rantoul. CRIS received a total of 10,000 meals delivered to Danville. Catholic Charities received a total of 500 meals. We want to express our sincere appreciation to Julie Bobitt, ECIAAA Advisory Council member, and her husband Jim Bobitt of Manito Transit, for organizing the complicated logistics tied to the FEMA Meals shipment and delivery to PSA 05 nutrition providers.

Personal Protective Equipment
Cloth Masks. In June, ECIAAA received 26,500 cloth masks from IEMA/FEMA. The masks have been distributed to Senior Centers (57%), SIS/CPoE providers (26%), Nutrition providers (15%) and Legal Service providers (2%).

Face Shields from InstaShield. The Area Agencies on Aging have partnered with the Retirement Research Foundation to distribute face shields produced by InstaShield free of charge to the Illinois Aging Network. ECIAAA-funded service providers have ordered 2,600 to date.

Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund (ICRF)
The Fund was established by the United Way of Illinois and the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor. Funds awarded to ECIAAA SIS/CPoE providers are to be used for basic supplies, interim housing and shelter, primary health care services, utility and financial assistance.

1st Round - $17,075
2nd Round - $ 45,072

Target Population: Older Adults 60+, Persons Under 60 with Disabilities, and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren 55 and Older.

Illinois Care Connections - Reducing Social Isolation Connectivity Assistance Program
The Illinois Department on Aging and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) received $1.7 million through the CARES Act to provide services to older adults and persons with disabilities who are socially isolated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Illinois Care Connections will provide technology devices such as iPads or Tablets to help facilitate social connections with family and friends. This initiative is in partnership with the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP).

CENSUS 2020 Outreach. ECIAAA-funded service providers have on average, reached 2,863 older adults per month through creative CENSUS 2020 outreach strategies. Social media campaigns by both ECIAAA and service providers have reached on average, 7,412 people per month. The U.S. Census Bureau recently announced that they will reissue paper surveys to households in under-reported census tracks. ECIAAA’s response rate is close to the Illinois average at 68.7%. However, this is below the final count reported (70%) during 2010. ECIAAA and service providers are making a final push to promote the CENSUS 2020 during the remaining months of the CENSUS 2020 count (ends September 30).

Senior Centers Re-Opening Guidance: The Illinois Department on Aging, in consultation with the Illinois Department of Public Health, has issued Minimum Requirements for Resuming In-Person Services at Senior Centers. Senior Centers are directed to follow Restore Illinois guidelines for occupancy requirements, IPDH guidelines for social distancing and use of PPE. Senior Centers have been directed to also use the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Senior Centers. Senior centers continue providing virtual activity programs and have instituted friendly caller programs. Senior centers have coordinated volunteer networks to address critical needs such as grocery delivery and pharmaceutical delivery.

Congregate Meal Sites Remain Suspended. Under the direction of IDOA, Area Agencies on Aging are prohibited from reinstating congregate nutrition sites. However, congregate participants are still being served using the alternate congregate delivery methods (carry-out, drive-thru, curbside pickup). Senior Centers hosting congregate nutrition programs have helped nutrition providers coordinate meal pick-up for participants.

Long-Term Care Facilities: The ECIAAA’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) continues to advocate on behalf of vulnerable adults living in long-term care facilities. Under the direction of Kelly Richards, IDoA State Ombudsman, ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman, Angie Baker, is collaborating with facility administrators to address existing and potential COVID-19 threat in 161 long-term facilities in east central Illinois.

Reducing Social Isolation in east central Illinois: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to exacerbate the dangers of social isolation for older adults. However, PSA 05 service providers have tackled the challenges by creating opportunities using technology. In addition to friendly caller programs, many senior programs have instituted smart speaker technology utilizing Alexa to keep in touch, and many have had success with Zoom Video Conferencing when conducting special programs and facilitate group chats.

Additional Resources: You can learn more by clicking on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 Red Link on ECIAAA’s website at www.eciaaa.org. Plus, you will also find on the website the ECIAAA COVID-19 Comprehensive Resources.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE AGING NETWORK– COVID-19 – 5th Release, May 20, 2020

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE:        May 20, 2020
RE:             ECIAAA COVID-19 AGING NETWORK UPDATE– REACTION TO ACTION!

May is Older Americans Month! During the difficult time of COVID-19, we cannot lose sight of why we are doing such important work - serving older adults. ECIAAA invites you to Make your Mark: May 2020! This year’s theme was selected to encourage and celebrate countless contributions that older adults make to our communities. In honor of Older Americans Month, ECIAAA is inviting you to share a story of how an older adult made a difference in your life. The Older Americans Month Anthology Project is posted on our website (www.eciaaa.org) where you can share your story. We will compile all stories into an Anthology, which will be posted on ECIAAA’s website and shared on social media. A note of appreciation to Orsi Ficsor, ECIAAA Stevenson Fellow, for developing this wonderful opportunity to honor our elders during Older Americans Month. We look forward to hearing from you!

Illinois Restore. Earlier this month, Governor Pritzker released his reopening plan – Restore Illinois. You can review the plan by clicking on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 Red Link on ECIAAA’s website at www.eciaaa.org. Please note, ECIAAA is concerned that the Governor’s plan does not address specific health issues experienced by older adults during this process. ECIAAA is working with the Illinois Association of Area Agencies to request an overlay to the Illinois Restore Plan to address issues affecting older adults. ECIAAA will also work with IDoA to ensure the safety of older adults when implementing proposed plans to reopen senior centers and congregate programs.

ECIAAA COVID-19 Aging Network Update.
Since mid-March, the Aging Network has responded heroically to the coronavirus pandemic. To support such efforts, the U.S. Congress has passed two major emergency funding packages to support Older Americans Act services. Please find a description of both funding packages listed below.

Family First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) ECIAAA awarded $502,360 in FFCRA OAA III-C2 (home delivered meal) funds to Peace Meal Senior Nutrition, CRIS Health-Aging Center, and Catholic Charities Meals on Wheels for the purchase and delivery of shelf stable meals.

NOTE: Since the end of March, PSA 05 nutrition providers are averaging 3,235 meals per day, while adding 452 new nutrition participants to the rolls. The demand for meals will only increase.

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020. The CARES Act was approved and signed by the President on March 27, 2020. For ECIAAA, the CARES Act award provides additional emergency support to Older Americans Act programming and seniors in general. ECIAAA received allocations from the Illinois Department on Aging as described below:

Title III-B - $275,124
Title III-C Nutrition Services - $1,085,097
Title III-E Family Caregiver Support Services - $223,572
Title VII Regional Ombudsman Program - $54,347

NOTE: ECIAAA is planning for the utilization of the CARES Act funding in consultation with Area Agency-funded service providers. The CARES Act authorizes funding through September 30, 2021.

Coordinated Points of Entry (CPoE) /Senior Information Services (SIS): CPoE/SIS providers in PSA 05 continue to provide information and assistance services to clients via phone call or email. CPoE/SIS providers are directed to provide services such as Benefit Access Applications (BAA), Senior Health Assistance Program services (SHAP), and Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) services over the phone. In response to reducing social isolation among clients, some CPoE/SIS providers have instituted new telephone reassurance programs during the pandemic. CARES Act funding will support certain needs identified by the CPoE/SIS providers. Service providers report the need for PPE for staff and clients (masks). The lack of internet connectivity has been a challenge in serving clients in rural areas. In partnership with service providers, ECIAAA will initiate creative efforts to secure viable internet access in deficient areas within PSA 05. Additional support will be considered to help CPoE/SIS providers upgrade computer equipment and technology to better serve older adults access benefits and services.

Caregiver Advisory Programs: Caregiver advisors are keeping in touch with caregivers and grandparents raising grandchildren by conducting telephonic/virtual caregiver support services. There has been a marked increase in the number of caregivers/grandparents/relatives raising grandchildren/children served since the pandemic started. When comparing caregivers/grandparents raising grandchildren served from February to March, ECIAAA Caregiver Advisors reported an increase of 106%, and another 43% increase when comparing March to April performance. ECIAAA plans to pilot TCARE (Tailored Caregiver Assessment and Referral) - an evidence-based, ACL-accredited care management program designed to support family members who are providing care to adults with chronic or acute health conditions with CARES Act funding. TCARE will offer Caregiver Advisors a more effective and efficient way to conduct caregiver assessments and care plans to better serve caregivers.

Nutrition Providers: Meals continue to be provided as a home delivered meal or as a take-out/drive through meal (alternate congregate delivery method). Nutrition providers report that overall food costs and supplies have increased due to the pandemic. Nutrition providers have not experienced a loss in volunteers or paid delivery drivers during the pandemic. Volunteers have stepped up to the challenge. The CARES Act funding will allow nutrition providers to purchase additional emergency meals later this year. In addition, the CARES Act funding will serve as an opportunity to address the overall nutrition needs of our most vulnerable clients.

Senior Centers: Senior Centers hosting congregate nutrition programs have helped nutrition providers coordinate meal pick-up for participants. Many senior centers have developed virtual activity programs and instituted friendly caller programs. Senior centers have coordinated volunteer networks to address critical needs such as grocery delivery and pharmaceutical delivery.

Long-Term Care Facilities: Illinois Long-Term Care Facilities have been severely affected by COVID-19 cases. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health statistics, 44% of total deaths reported due to the coronavirus in Illinois as of May 1, 2020 are tied to nursing homes. Facilities in Decatur and Bloomington have had major outbreaks. The ECIAAA’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) continues to advocate telephonically on behalf of vulnerable adults living in long-term care facilities. Under the direction of Kelly Richards, IDoA State Ombudsman, ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman, Angie Baker, is collaborating with facility administrators to address existing and potential COVID-19 threat in 161 long-term facilities in east central Illinois.

Reducing Social Isolation in east central Illinois: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the dangers of social isolation for older adults. However, PSA 05 service providers have tackled the challenges by creating opportunities using technology. In addition to friendly caller programs, many senior centers have instituted technology such as Smart Speakers connected to Alexa and Zoom Video Conferencing to conduct special programs and facilitate group chats.

FEMA Shelf Stable Meals: We received word that the Illinois Department on Aging has finalized its partnership with FEMA in securing emergency shelf stable meals for distribution to older adults in Illinois. ECIAAA is slated to receive a shipment of 14,100 meals per week for four (4) weeks. Anticipated delivery date is still pending. We want to express our sincere appreciation to Julie Bobitt, ECIAAA Advisory Council member, and Julie’s husband Jim Bobitt, for organizing the complicated logistics tied to the FEMA Meals shipment and delivery to PSA 05 nutrition providers by McLeod Trucking located in Decatur, IL.

Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund (ICRF): We are pleased to announce that ECIAAA has received $17,075 from a $250,000 grant the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) received from ICRF. The Fund was established by the United Way of Illinois and the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor. These funds have been directly granted to ECIAAA CPoE/SIS providers to support COVID-19 gap-filling requests for both older adults and individuals with disabilities under the age of 60.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE AGING NETWORK– COVID-19 – 4th Release, April 14, 2020

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE: April 14, 2020
RE: ECIAAA COVID-19 AGING NETWORK UPDATE – REACTION TO ACTION!

Over the past month, the Aging Network has responded heroically to the coronavirus pandemic. To support such efforts, the U.S. Congress has passed two major emergency funding packages to support Older Americans Act services.

Family First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) for the Title III-C Nutrition Program. Earlier in March, Congress approved $250 M in Title III-C funding. ECIAAA’s (PSA 05) award mounts to $502,360 in Title III-C2 (home delivered meal) funding which will be allocated to PSA 05 Home Delivered Meal service providers for the purchase of shelf stable meals (2-week supply).
Since the end of March, PSA 05 nutrition providers are averaging 3,500 meals per day while
adding 200 new nutrition participants to the rolls. The demand for meals will only increase.

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020. The CARES Act was
approved and signed by the President on March 27, 2020. The CARES Act provides additional
emergency support to Older Americans Act programming and seniors in general.

Title III-C Nutrition Services- $480 M
Title III-B Supportive Services- $200 M
Title III-E Family Caregiver Support Services - $100 M
Title VII Elder Rights Protection Activities - $20 M
Aging & Disability Resource Centers - $50 M

NOTE: CARES Act funding has not been distributed by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to state units on aging; therefore, a final award to PSA 05 cannot be reported at this time. ECIAAA will take immediate action once we receive notification from the Illinois Department on Aging.

Caregiver Advisory Programs: Caregiver advisors are keeping in touch with caregivers and grandparents raising grandchildren by conducting telephonic/virtual caregiver support services.

Senior Centers: Senior Centers hosting congregate nutrition programs have helped nutrition providers coordinate meal pick-up for participants. Many senior centers have developed virtual activity programs and instituted friendly caller programs. Senior centers have coordinated volunteer networks to address critical needs such as grocery delivery and pharmaceutical delivery.

Long-Term Care Facilities: ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman Program continues to advocate telephonically on behalf of vulnerable adults living in long-term care facilities. Under the direction of Kelly Richards, IDoA State Ombudsman, ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman, Angie Baker, is collaborating with facility administrators to address the potential COVID-19 threat in 161 long-term facilities in east central Illinois.

Personal Protective Equipment - Pending: Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) is partnering with the Illinois Department on Aging and the Illinois Department of Public Health to secure disposable N-95 masks and medical gloves as a protection for in-home care staff, senior service staff, and volunteers delivering home delivered meals, groceries and medicines. PPE for medical personnel remain top priority; however, our order is pending for PSA 05.

FEMA Shelf Stable Meals - Pending: The Illinois Department on Aging has pursued a partnership with FEMA in securing emergency shelf stable meals for distribution to older adults in Illinois. ECIAAA has placed an order of 2,280 daily meals on behalf of PSA 05 OAA nutrition providers. Please note, IDoA is still negotiating with FEMA on the delivery of emergency meals to the Aging Network.

Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund (ICRF): We are pleased to announce that the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) received a $250,000 grant from ICRF. The Fund was established by the United Way of Illinois and the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor. ECIAAA will receive $17,075 through the I4A ICRF grant award. These funds will be directly granted to ECIAAA CPoE/SIS providers.

Recruitment of Volunteers: ECIAAA is looking for volunteers to support the PSA 05 Aging Network. ECIAAA is recruiting volunteers to assist with grocery shopping, food and medication delivery, and telephone reassurance; please refer to attached flyers. For more information, please contact Amber Johnson, Executive Services at 309-829-2065, ext. 205 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Additional Resources: Please check out ECIAAA’s Website (www.eciaaa.org) for up to date COVID-19 information from the Illinois Department of Public Health. We have also attached the ECIAAA COVID-19 Comprehensive List of Senior Citizen Preparedness Resources.

ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions. Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support today, while planning for tomorrow. Please, Be Safe, and Be Well!

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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE AGING NETWORK– COVID-19 – 3rd Release, March 25, 2020

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE: March 25, 2020
RE: ECIAAA COVID-19 AGING NETWORK – REACTION TO ACTION!

In response to Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order to stay at home, ECIAAA is operating with a skeleton crew to ensure we are available to support service providers with programmatic matters and fiscal matters. Illinois older adults are among the highest risk population group for becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Services to older adults are considered “essential,” so we are working with service providers to make sure services continue. PSA 05 updates are noted below:

Nutrition Services. ECIAAA-funded nutrition providers serve over 7,800 eligible participants in both the congregate meal (4,345) and home delivered meal (3,455) programs in PSA 05.

Congregate Meals: ECIAAA-funded nutrition programs continue providing meals to congregate participants in an alternative format (i.e. “carry-out”, “drive-thru”, or a “home-delivered meal”). Senior Centers hosting congregate sites have been working with nutrition providers to facilitate this effort. For the most part, senior nutrition services hosted by restaurant programs are also complying with the “carry-out”, “drive-thru”, or “curb-side” pick up order. Certain restaurant owners reported they were relieved that they could still serve seniors in their community.
Home Delivered Meals: Service to home delivered meal participants continue. We expect demand for this service to grow. ECIAAA is exploring the possible bulk purchase of shelf-stable meals to address the expanded need. ECIAAA, in coordination with IDoA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will order 2,280 shelf-stable meals per day for distribution to eligible participants by PSA 05 nutrition providers.

Senior Centers have been requested to suspend all social activities in group settings in PSA 05.

Community Care Program Adult Day Services: All Community Care Program-sponsored Adult Day Services (ADS) remain closed throughout Illinois. Backup plans will be established to ensure services are provided to current ADS participants.

Community Care Program (CCP) Services: CCP eligibility activities will continue; however, Coordination Units are conducting all eligibility determinations, reassessments, and follow-up activities by phone. CCP In-Home Services and Emergency Home Response Services will continue as authorized.

Adult Protective Services (APS): APS investigations, casework, and follow-up will continue via phone; however, APS agencies have been directed to discontinue client in-home visits. APS victims with Priority I substantiated abuse category will receive wellness checks by law enforcement.

Coordinated Points of Entry (CPoE) /Senior Information Services (SIS): Effective March 16, 2020, CPoE/SIS providers in PSA 05 were directed to suspend face-to-face appointments with clients unless the service provider deemed them necessary. CPoE/SIS providers are directed to provide services such as Benefit Access Applications (BAA), Senior Health Assistance Program services (SHAP), and Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) services over the phone.

Caregiver Advisory Programs: Effective March 16, 2020, providers PSA 05 to suspended participant home visits and face-to-face appointments, unless the service provider deems them necessary.

NOTE: If face-to-face visits are absolutely necessary, you are requested to utilize the IDoA screening tool described below:
IDoA COVID-19 Screening Tool – for care coordinators, APS caseworkers, Community Care Program providers, and other Aging Network providers
Guidance for Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) COVID-19 Screening/Notice

Long-Term Care Facilities: ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman Program continues to advocate telephonically on behalf of vulnerable adults living in long-term care facilities. Under the direction of Kelly Richards, IDoA State Ombudsman, ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman, Angie Baker, is collaborating with facility administrators to address the potential COVID-19 threat in 161 long-term facilities in east central Illinois.

Recruitment of Volunteers: ECIAAA is looking for volunteers to support the PSA 05 Aging Network. For more information, please contact Amber Johnson, Executive Services at 309-829-2065, ext. 205

PSA 05 Highlights - SERVICE PROVIDER INGENUITY DURING COVID-19!

Champaign County: CRIS Healthy-Aging Center gave away (last week) free wellness kits to seniors 60 and older, their caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren.
Douglas County: Establishment of new Friendly Call/Telephone Reassurance Programs – Family Service Senior Services
Cumberland County: (1) Established a Virtual VITA Site to help older adults complete their taxes online; and, (2) Promoting the CENSUS 2020 when contacting clients – Life Center of Cumberland County
Piatt County: Piatt County Services for Seniors partnering with Piattran (rural public transportation program) and Faith in Action of Piatt County to offer pickup and delivery of groceries and prescriptions to older adults.
Vermilion County: CRIS Healthy-Aging Center will be giving away (this week) free wellness kits to seniors 60 and older, their caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren.
Several Senior Centers: Including a roll (or package) of toilet paper weekly to home-bound clients with their meal delivery.

Where to Find Answers and Help? ECIAAA’s Website has posted a COVID-19 Red Alert from the Illinois Department of Public Health which is updated regularly. You can find it by accessing www.eciaaa.org - the COVID-19 Red Alert can be found at the top of ECIAAA’s webpage. Additional resources include:

ECIAAA Comprehensive COVID-19 Resources
National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging https://nutritionandaging.org/covid-19/

ECIAAA acknowledges that available resources to help the Aging Network better serve older adults during this emergency are limited. However, we are learning more each day and will share pertinent information as received. ECIAAA stands ready to support the Aging Network. Please do not hesitate in contacting us at 1-800-888-4456 with your questions.

Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support today, while planning for tomorrow. Please, Be Safe, and Be Well!

SCR:sr

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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE AGING NETWORK– COVID-19 – 2^ND Release, March 16, 2020

TO: ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM: Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE: March 16, 2020
RE: ECIAAA COVID-19 AGING NETWORK IMPORTANT UPDATES

COVID-19 – On March 13, 2020, President Trump issued a Proclamation on Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak. On Monday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) called for the cancellation of in-person events of 10 or more people for the next eight (8) weeks to prevent the spread of coronavirus. As of today, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced 105 confirmed cases of coronavirus across Illinois. This includes one confirmed case reported in Champaign County and one confirmed case in Cumberland County. Response efforts have evolved rapidly including statewide school closures effective Tuesday, restaurant and bar closures, suspension of church services, and the closure of many public services. To reduce the spread of the virus, Social Distancing of 6 feet is recommended for everyone. Illinois older adults are among the highest risk population group for becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Therefore, our concerted efforts to respond to this emergency is imperative.

As reported earlier, the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) requested all Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), and AAA-funded service providers, to immediately suspend all gathering activities placing our older adults at heightened risk including the provision of congregate meals and social activities in group settings. Service delivery requirements continue to change. Please find the most recent updates by service category:

Congregate Meals: On Thursday, March 12, 2020, ECIAAA-funded nutrition providers began suspending meals at congregate sites but were directed to continue the provision of meals to congregate participants using an alternative format (i.e. “carry-out” or a “home-delivered meal”). According to PSA 05 Nutrition Providers, the alternate method of delivering meals to congregate participants has had its challenges but will continue.
Congregate Meals: Senior Centers hosting ECIAAA-funded nutrition programs are requested to support nutrition providers in their efforts to provide congregate meals using the alternative delivery method (i.e. “carry-out meals” or “home delivered meals”) to reduce potential exposure to COVID-19.
Congregate Restaurant Programs: In accordance to Governor Pritzker’s order to close Illinois restaurants, AAA-funded service providers directed PSA 05 Nutrition Providers to continue the provision of meals to congregate participants served by restaurant programs using drive-thru and curbside pickup options.
Home Delivered Meals: At this time, we do not anticipate any changes to traditional OAA-Home Delivered Meal service provision in PSA 05.
Senior Centers are requested to suspend all social activities in group settings in PSA 05.
Community Care Program Adult Day Services: As of March 15, 2020, IDoA notified the Illinois Aging Network of the suspension of Community Care Program-sponsored Adult Day Services (ADS) throughout Illinois. Back-up plans will be established to ensure services are provided to current ADS participants.
Community Care Program (CCP) Services: CCP eligibility activities will continue; however, Coordination Units are instructed to discontinue client in-home visits. All assessments are to be conducted by phone. CCP In-Home Services and Emergency Home Response Services will continue as authorized.
Adult Protective Services (APS): APS investigations, casework, and follow-up will continue via phone; however, APS agencies have been directed to discontinue client in-home visits. APS victims with Priority I substantiated abuse category will receive wellness checks by law enforcement.

As the risk to older adults continues to increase, the East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging is issuing the following directives to Coordinated Points of Entry/Senior Information Services and Caregiver Advisory Programs effective immediately.

Updated CPoE/SIS Guidance Effective March 16, 2020:

Based on updated information from the Illinois Department on Aging shared March 16, 2020, ECIAAA is directing CPoE/ Senior Information Services and Caregiver Advisory providers in PSA 05 to suspend participant home visits and face-to-face appointments unless the service provider deems them necessary. This directive is effective immediately.

CPoE/SIS and Caregiver Advisory Providers are to use the IDoA COVID-19 Screen Tool in situations when a face-to-face is being considered.

Update from the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA): Specific Direction from the Illinois Department on Aging to the Illinois Aging Network on How to Respond to COVID-19:

IDoA COVID-19 Screening Tool – for care coordinators, APS caseworkers, Community Care Program providers, and other Aging Network providers;
Guidance for Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) COVID-19 Screening/Notice;

Additional resources include:

ECIAAA COVID-19 Comprehensive List of Senior Citizen Preparedness Resource
Flyers: COVID-19 Symptoms, Handwashing Techniques, Flu vs. COVID-19, Share facts, and Stop the Spread.

Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support today, while planning for tomorrow. Please, Be Safe, and Be Well!

SCR:sr

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE AGING NETWORK– COVID-19

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director
DATE:        March 12, 2020
RE: ECIAAA COVID-19 Reaction to Action!
Illinois older adults are among the highest risk population group for becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Locations where seniors gather such as congregate meal sites and senior centers may increase the risk of transmitting COVID-19 and increase the risk of spreading the virus. On Monday, March 9, 2020, Governor JB Pritzker declared a state of emergency based on new guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and evidence emerging across other countries and throughout the United States.

As of Wednesday, March 11, 2020. the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) requested all Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), and AAA-funded service providers, to immediately suspend all gathering activities placing our older adults at heightened risk including the provision of congregate meals and social activities in group settings. IDoA’s directive is a prevention, not a containment measure.

To protect older adults in east central Illinois, in collaboration with our ECIAAA-funded service providers, we have taken the following actions:

Suspension of meal service at congregate nutrition sites. ECIAAA-funded nutrition providers are suspending the provision of meals at congregate sites but will provide meals to congregate participants using an alternative format (i.e. as a “carry-out” or a “home-delivered meal”). This includes meals provided in a restaurant setting. It is the intention of ECIAAA and AAA-funded nutrition providers to ensure congregate meal participants receive OAA-funded congregate meals during the COVID-19 threat. NOTE: At this time, we do not anticipate any changes to traditional OAA-Home Delivered Meal service provision in PSA 05.
CCUs will be notified of congregate meal recipients receiving Community Care Program (CCP) services of the provision of alternative congregate meals (i.e. “carry-out meals” or “home delivered meals”).
Senior Centers hosting ECIAAA-funded nutrition programs are requested to support nutrition providers in their efforts to provide congregate meals using the alternative delivery method (i.e. “carry-out meals” or “home delivered meals”) to reduce potential exposure to COVID-19.
Senior Centers are requested to suspend all social activities in group settings in PSA 05.
However, Senior Centers providing ECIAAA-funded CPoE/SIS services are requested to continue providing individual services to seniors such as benefit assistance, tax preparation, and Benefit Access Application (BAA) applications without interruption.
Coordinated Points of Entry/Senior Information Service providers are requested to continue providing individual services to seniors such as benefit assistance, tax preparation, and Benefit Access Application (BAA) applications without interruption.
Long-Term Care Facilities – ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman Program is acting to protect our vulnerable adults living in long-term care facilities. Under the direction of Kelly Richards, IDoA State Ombudsman, ECIAAA’s Regional Ombudsman, Angie Baker, is collaborating with facility administrators to address the potential COVID-19 threat in 161 long-term facilities in east central Illinois.

Duration of Suspension? Suspension of meals provided in congregate settings and social activities in group settings goes into effect immediately and remains in effect until further notice.

Where to Find Answers and Help? Please find national, state, and local resources to help us deal with this crisis:

Local Resource: Please direct questions pertaining to COVID-19 to your local health departments.
Local Resource: PATH 2-1-1 call center is available 24/7 to provide reliable information on COVID-19. Counties served by 2-1-1: Champaign, DeWitt, Douglas, Iroquois, Livingston, Macon, McLean, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion.
State Resource: Illinois Department on Aging – https://www2.illinois.gov/aging/Pages/default.aspx
State Resource: Illinois Department of Public Health - http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus
National Resource: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Thank you all for your dedication as we continue to support today, while planning for tomorrow. Be Well!

SCR:sr

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MEMORANDUM

TO:             ECIAAA CORPORATE BOARD, ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS, & ECIAAA SERVICE PROVIDERS
FROM:       Susan C. Real, Executive Director SCR
DATE:        February 7, 2020
RE:             Director’s Report – Older Americans Act Reauthorization
(Source: Autumn Campbell, Senior Director, n4a Public Policy and Advocacy)

Older Americans Act Reauthorization Moves Forward!
After nearly a year of advocacy and negotiation, House and Senate leaders released a bipartisan, bicameral bill, Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020, to reauthorize the federal Older Americans Act (OAA) for five years. This is an exciting development that reflects significant commitment from and work by local and national advocates, congressional champions in both chambers, and key House and Senate staff. We believe this final compromise bill is poised for swift passage soon after the Senate returns to legislative business following the current impeachment activity.

Some of the key provisions promoted by both the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging and the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging include:

Reauthorizing the OAA for five years, which is the timeframe included in the House-passed Dignity in Aging Act (H.R. 4334) and two years longer than the prior reauthorization. The Senate bill initially proposed a seven-year reauthorization that was negotiated as part of the agreement over the Act’s funding formula.
House-passed increases in authorized funding levels: a seven percent increase is recommended for the first year, with six percent increases in each subsequent year through FY 2024.
Language to clarify that AAAs can, outside of the OAA, engage in private pay, integrated care and other arrangements to expand services, which is a key n4a priority and is also included in both previous bills.
Removing the Title III E funding cap on grand-families and older relative caregivers, another top n4a priority.
Establishing a research, demonstration and evaluation center for the Aging Network to improve assessment and promote advancement of the relationship between OAA programs and services and health outcomes. This final measure is a compromise between House and Senate provisions regarding research, evaluation and demonstration efforts.
Encouraging states to work with AAAs to address potential administrative barriers to transferring funds between nutrition programs for congregate and home-delivered meals.

Our advocacy efforts paid off! n4a’s policy team worked successfully to prevent any unfunded mandates for AAAs. Plus, efforts to erode the local control and flexibility of AAAs were thwarted. The Administration’s recommendation to eliminate local governments' right of first refusal to serve as the AAA was not adopted. The bill does include a significant section on caregiver assessments, but does not require robust assessments in Title III E, as previously proposed.

Next Steps for OAA Reauthorization

The Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020 was introduced as a substitute amendment to the House-passed Dignity in Aging Act, which was unanimously approved by the House in September. This means that the final compromise bill maintains the House bill number, H.R. 4334, and will likely circumvent additional committee action in the Senate to move straight to floor consideration.

This is great news because it would significantly expedite the Senate approval process. While the exact next steps in the Senate are unclear, we do expect that moving this compromise bill is a top priority for lawmakers when they return to legislative business.

Following what we hope will be a speedy Senate approval, the bill would then have to go back to the House for passage before heading to the President’s desk for signature. We don’t anticipate major hurdles to House approval, but the exact path forward will become much clearer in the days ahead. N4a and I4A are relying on its grassroots advocacy to ensure that this bill gets across the finish line this winter!

Thank you for your efforts and please do not hesitate in contacting me by cell phone with questions at (309)533-3232.

SCR:sr

Cc: Control File

From The Executive Director......

Older Americans Act (OAA) Proposed Allocations - Senate:

Other Key Programs:

Older Americans Act (OAA):

Other Key Programs:

Next Steps:

East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging Announces

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