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Sound off for seniors

The Spokesman-Review

Gov. Gregoire recently released her proposed 2010 state budget. Senior citizens in our state, who need long-term care supports and services, will be severely compromised by the devastating cuts in services and funding proposed in this budget. Leading the way is a 65 percent reduction proposed in the Senior Citizens Services Act (SCSA) funding.

A critical core element is senior information and assistance, a service provided locally that helps seniors and their families make informed choices to avoid more costly nursing home care. In addition, the proposed cuts to SCSA funding will cause severe reductions to the following services in our area: adult day care, bathing assistance, minor home repair, and case management for pre-Medicaid individuals. In 2008, over 23,000 people were helped one or more times through these services.

What can be done? On behalf of the Planning and Management Council of Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington, I ask for your assistance. Please call the govemor’s office, l-360-902-4111, and the Legislative Hotline, 1-800-562-6000, with the following message:

“Please restore the Senior Citizens Services Act funds so that senior citizens will continue to receive vital services.”

Marie Raschko-Sokol, chairwoman

Planning and Management Council of Aging

& Long Term Care of Eastern Washington



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