The Allegany Human Services Committee convened on February 19, 2025, to discuss various topics concerning the aging population and health services in Allegany County. The meeting commenced with a report from Anita Madison of the Office for the Aging, who highlighted key statistics from December's monthly report.

Madison noted a significant increase in health insurance counseling contacts, with 639 interactions compared to 281 during the same period last year. This uptick reflects a busy open enrollment season for Medicare insurance. Additionally, she reported that the Office for the Aging provided a total of 9,173 meals in December, slightly up from 9,076 meals the previous year. For the entire year, over 10,221 meals were delivered to older adults in the county.

The Go Go Grandparent program, which offers transportation for seniors to medical appointments, also saw increased usage. In December, there were 44 rides provided, and by February 19, 2025, 47 rides had already been scheduled. Madison confirmed that this program is funded by state allocations specifically for individuals aged 60 and over.

The committee then moved to financial matters, seeking resolutions to appropriate additional funds. The first resolution involved accepting $22,159 under the Medicare Improvements and Patients and Providers Act (MIPA), exceeding the budgeted amount of $16,384. The committee unanimously approved this allocation to cover various operational expenses.

Next, a resolution was presented to accept $28,950 from the American Rescue Plan, along with $4,100 in client contributions. This funding aims to enhance services, including COVID-19 vaccine assistance and home-delivered meals. The committee approved this resolution as well.

Lastly, the committee addressed a request to fill a full-time Aging Service Technician position, which had become vacant due to promotions within the department. This position is crucial for conducting home assessments necessary for state and federal funding compliance. The motion to fill this position was also carried unanimously.

In closing, the committee discussed the potential impact of the DOGE program from Washington, but Madison indicated that there had been no significant effects on their operations at this time. The meeting concluded with a sense of progress in addressing the needs of the aging population in Allegany County.