Schumer Reveals: 50,000+ Long Island Seniors Could Be homebound Because Critical Aging In Place Program Is In Danger Of Expiring; Senator Pushes Feds To Continue 'Project Independence' Across North Hempstead; If Program Expires, Thousands Of Seniors Would Be Forced Into Costly Care, Diminishing Quality Of Life & Costing Feds Millions

Press Release

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today urged the federal Department of Transportation (DOT) to provide approximately $1 million in federal funding for North Hempstead's Project Independence, a vital transportation program serving over 50,000 seniors across Nassau County. Schumer helped officials begin the program several years ago and says it is essential to Nassau's seniors. However, right now, the crucial project's funds will only fund its services until the end of the year. However, Nassau officials are hoping a grant proposal they have just submitted to the federal government will keep the program fully operational. Specifically, "Project Independence" provides transportation to supermarkets, doctor appointments and other senior events through the Town of North Hempstead. The program also provides in-home nursing visits, and other home care and case worker needs to seniors. Because of this program, seniors are able to stay in their own homes, as opposed to entering assisted living or nursing home facilities. This aging in place concept saves the federal government millions a year. Moreover, with the recent shutdown of the Federal Employment and Guidance Services (FEGS)--a local nonprofit--Project Independence has become even more crucial, as it has taken on approximately 2,000 North New Hyde Park residents who once relied on FEGS. Schumer urged the DOT to renew their commitment to Project Independence and approve the grant, so that thousands of seniors won't find themselves homebound or forced to begin planning for costly care that would minimize their quality of life while costing the government millions.

Schumer was joined by North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth and seniors.

"It may sound simple but what is going on here with Project Independence is so much more than a ride--it's a lifeline," said Schumer. "Thousands of seniors in the Town of North Hempstead rely on Project Independence, as it provides an added comfort of knowing they can live independently at home while having access to much-needed transportation options. We all know that the Town's suburban geography can often make it difficult for seniors to get to the doctor or to the nearby supermarket but that doesn't mean seniors want to move out of their home and into an assisted living facility or nursing home. This federal funding is crucial, as it will help make sure Project Independence has the resources it needs to succeed and continue for the next three years and I will do everything in my power to make sure we secure this funding."

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