The
COVID-19 crisis has tested the resilience of social services in many parts
of our country. At the same time, it should not be a surprise that across
the nation we have come together to support each other and find creative
solutions when needs arise.
I learned early in my career that the people best prepared to
respond to a crisis are those who already know what resources and services
are available on the ground. This lesson speaks to a simple principle that
has guided our nation’s response to this pandemic: solutions need to be
federally supported, state managed, and locally implemented.
I witnessed this principle in action recently when a colleague
from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reached out to tell me
about two individuals in New Jersey who needed rides to their weekly
dialysis treatments. Both had tested positive for COVID-19 and their family
members, who were also infected with the virus, were unable to provide
transportation.
I contacted the New Jersey Volunteer Organization Active in
Disasters (VOAD), and they looped in the New Jersey State Police. The State
Police play a key role in statewide emergency management. They used their
knowledge of local resources to help secure safe rides for both individuals.
Execution of the support happened at the local level, while
management and support was provided by state and federal agencies. Everyone
worked with passion and professionalism to resolve this critical problem in
a quick, decisive manner. What could have been a life threatening
transportation challenge became an example of how human services and
committed partners can make a difference in people’s lives during the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout the Department of Health and Human Services, we
often hear the mantra, “locally supported, state managed, and locally
executed.” This story certainly demonstrates words can be matched by
actions.
Visit ACL's
COVID-19 webpage for more information and to learn about
resources for older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, and
community-based organizations serving these individuals.
Older adults who need assistance can contact the Eldercare
Locator to find services available in their community. The
Eldercare Locator can be reached at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov.
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