St. Joseph County board supports aging resources as they seek Michigan grant
The “No Wrong Door” program allows for informed decisions about healthcare, Commissioner Rick Shaffer said. Shaffer also showed a present for colleague Dennis Allen.
With a unanimous vote Tuesday, the St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners approved supporting the county Commission on Aging (COA) as it partners with the Area Agency Aging (AAA) in Coldwater.
The commission and agency are applying for grant funding from the State of Michigan to support the No Wrong Door program. In November, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced that more than $16 million is available, with up to 20 awards given. The maximum award to any grantee is $4.4 million. The application deadline is 3 p.m. Thursday, December 9, with grants being awarded between March 1-September 30, 2025.
“The purpose of the No Wrong Door program is to create a coordinated system of providers for consumers to access long-term service and supports as well as Medicare enrollment for older adults and people with disabilities through Person-Centered Options Counseling, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program and the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act program,” MDHHS stated.
County Commissioner Rick Shaffer and AAA Director Laura Sutter presented on the COA-AAA partnership and also introduced the resolution approved by commissioners.
“Finding and accessing an unbiased Medicare counselor presents a significant challenge for many individuals and families due to the complexities of multiple insurance providers, and eligibility requirements, often creating confusion and frustration,” the proclamation states.
No Wrong Door seeks to prioritize the needs and preferences of individuals and their families, Shaffer and Sutter stated. It will ensure that they are empowered to make informed decisions about healthcare.
Tuesday’s meeting also included recognition of former Commissioner Dennis Allen, who served from January 1, 2017-October 31, 2024. Commissioner Christina Yunker, appointed to serve the last two months of Allen’s term, was also elected to succeed him beginning on January 1, 2025.
“Dennis Allen has exemplified outstanding commitment and dedication to public service as County Commissioner for District No. 5 since January 1, 2017,” a proclamation stated. “Public service demands a steadfast dedication of time, energy, and personal sacrifice, which Commissioner Allen has delivered with integrity and passion.”
Allen was not present for Tuesday’s meeting. Commission Chairman Ken Malone explained that Allen was fulfilling family obligations in Florida. Allen’s time in office included serving as chairman of the board from 2018-2021.
Shaffer showed off a present that will be given to Allen once he returns to Michigan. It includes a nameplate and a gavel in recognition of Allen’s time as a board chairman.
The St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners will meet again at 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Frank Stanko is a staff writer for Watershed Voice.
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