GLSS RECEIVES $100,000 GRANT FROM EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF AGING AND INDEPENDENCE
TO DEVELOP VOLUNTEER WORK FORCE TO HELP AREA CAREGIVERS
Greater Lynn Senior Services (GLSS) recently received a $100,000 grant from the Healey-Driscoll Administration through the Executive Office of Aging and Independence to help caregivers in Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott. The funding will be used to develop a volunteer workforce that will be available to assist family caregivers, specifically around the challenges of dementia care.
The funds were made available through a federal grant of more than $400,000 given to five community-based organizations that will support the economic security of family caregivers across Massachusetts. GLSS is partnering with Senior Care, Inc., Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services, and Positive Approach, LLC.
“Family caregivers work incredibly hard – often holding a full-time job in addition to supporting a loved one,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We know many caregivers struggle with balancing their own work and finances, as well as their loved ones,’ and these grants will help provide family caregivers with the support they need to pay the bills.”
AARP estimates the average caregiver pays more than $7,200 annually in out-of-pocket costs for transportation and other needs. In total, family caregivers provide an estimated 36 billion hours of care for older parents, spouses, and other family members and friends.
“A lot of people are affected by caregiving in different ways. And people often want to give back these days, and some people have a special spot in their heart for caregivers. So this gives us a way to honor people who want to be involved — and to provide more support for caregivers from people who really want to help them,” said Michele Parr, GLSS caregiver specialist.
GLSS’ Family Caregiver Support Program provides free assistance—including education, counseling, training, and support groups—to caregivers in Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott, with a special focus on serving families and individuals who are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss. To learn more, visit www.glss.net, or call Michele Parr, Family Caregiver Support Specialist, at 781-586-8635 or email mparr@glss.net.