In a recent government meeting, Kitsap County officials discussed a significant revenue contract with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, aimed at addressing food insecurity among older adults. The contract, valued at over $7 million, will fund various programs through the county's Division of Aging and Long Term Care from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

Stacy Smith, the administrator of the division, outlined the contract's purpose: to blend federal and state funding to support services for disabled adults, unpaid family caregivers, and individuals aged 60 and older. Key programs funded by this contract include Medicaid personal care, senior information and assistance, and a family caregiver respite program, among others.

The Medicaid personal care program, which allocates over $3.3 million, serves approximately 1,146 individuals monthly, allowing them to receive care at home despite needing nursing home-level care. The family caregiver respite program received a notable increase in funding, now totaling $175,054, enabling support for 85 caregivers.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted a new initiative to combat food insecurity, with $372,890 allocated to local food bank partners in Kitsap County. This funding is part of a broader $12 million statewide effort to address the needs of older adults as federal stimulus funds come to an end. The local food bank coalition, which includes seven organizations, will submit proposals on how to utilize these funds effectively.

Smith emphasized the importance of these programs in promoting the well-being and independence of older adults in the community. The division aims to continue advocating for ongoing funding to sustain these essential services in the future. For more information, residents can contact the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long Term Care directly or visit their website.