Atlanta — Dec 15, 2020
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) today announced that it has awarded $320,461 in federal CARES Act funds to Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS) to provide a regional respite service for caregivers. Caregivers are the daughters, sons, and other relatives of older adults who are doing their best to provide support for their parents, aunts, uncles, and other relations so that they may continue to live independently. “Respite” refers to services that offer caregivers a temporary break in the care they are providing. The grant will provide caregivers with vouchers worth up to $2,400 for services that include bathing, dressing, companion services, adult daycare, grooming, laundry, and light housework.
“This funding partnership comes at an urgent time,” said Becky Kurtz, Managing Director of ARC’s Aging & Independence Services group. “The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly added to the daily stress of caregivers, who were shouldering a large burden even before the crisis hit. The grant will enable caregivers to take a sorely needed break and recharge their batteries before getting back to the critical work of caring for their loved ones.”
To be eligible for the program, caregivers must live in the 10-county region which includes Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties. The vouchers are available to anyone, regardless of religious affiliation, who falls into one of the following two groups:
“During this pandemic, providing family caregivers a break is more important than ever to prevent burnout and support them to continue providing care to their aging loved ones. We are really grateful to have our partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission to support family caregivers through respite services like in-home care and adult day services,” said Deborah Zisholtz, Director of Aviv Older Adult Services.
“The ARC partnership strengthens our ability to impact those who are most in need of support. JF&CS honors ARC and the treasured caregivers,” said Terri Bonoff, CEO of JF&CS.
To learn more or to apply for a voucher, visit ARC’s Empowerline at empowerline.org or by calling (404) 463-3333. ARC’s Empowerline provides trained phone and online counselors who continue to help older individuals and their caregivers to get their needs met.
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is the official planning agency for the 10-county Atlanta Region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties as well as the City of Atlanta and 73 other cities. The Atlanta Regional Commission serves as a catalyst for regional progress by focusing leadership, attention and planning resources on key regional issues.
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Contact Name: Kate Sweeney
Contact Phone: 404-314-7863
Contact Email: ksweeney@atlantaregional.org
ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more.
