Trellis was honored to co-convene a group of partner organizations, older adults and caregivers in a roundtable discussion with Senator Tina Smith on Thursday, April 5. Senator Smith wanted to hear directly from older adults and community organizations about the challenges they face and the solutions that have supported our aging population as Congress prepares to reauthorize the Older Americans Act. Trellis President and CEO Dawn Simonson and Board Chair Vanne Owens Hayes were on hand to represent Trellis.
A common theme during the discussion was the importance of sustained and flexible funding. Several people noted that the need for services funded by the Older Americans Act remains great even after the height of the pandemic, a point that was emphasized with personal stories from caregivers, Meals on Wheels recipients and adult day participants. The West St. Paul Reader shared a recap of the conversation, which included topics such as the challenges of caregiving, social isolation and the ability to age in place.
We are grateful to Senator Smith for making time to hear from older adults and community providers. Special thanks to our partners for taking part in this important conversation: DARTS, SEWA-Asian Indian Family Wellness, Metro Meals on Wheels, AARP Minnesota and Catholic Charities Twin Cities.