United Way of Morris County News
Recent News
Caregivers Coalition Continues to Increase Support of County Caregivers
December 2006
November was National Family Caregivers Month, and the Caregivers Coalition of Morris County celebrated by promoting the theme of Protecting Caregiver Health. Studies show that caregivers themselves are at high risk for stress, depression, fatigue, and often neglect their own health. The Coalition encourages caregivers to take three steps every day to make their lives easier: Believe in yourself; Protect your health; Reach Out for help.
The Coalition, initiated by United Way almost two years ago, has made a name for itself on the national stage! The National Alliance for Caregiving recently asked Carol DeGraw, Manager, Community Impact, to share with other caregiving groups across the country how the Coalition is delivering real results for caregivers.
Coalition members recently met with Congressman Frelinghuysen to encourage his support for the Lifespan Respite Care Act, an important bill for caregivers in Congress (HR 3248, S 1283). The bill, which was introduced by Congressman Mike Ferguson, would authorize competitive grants to states to make quality respite accessible to family caregivers regardless of age or disability. To lend your voice to this effort click here.
The Coalition is developing a Caregiver Navigation Guide for Morris County, which will help caregivers determine what services they can access to best meet their needs. The Guide will be organized into three caregiving areas: seniors, disabilities, and mental illness. An early 2007 publication date is anticipated!
The Coalition is also working with the Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities, and Veterans to set up a new Caregiver Support Program in 2007. Caregivers who call with questions can be connected with a "Care Partner," a caregiver who has managed a similar situation.
In October, the Coalition partnered with the Alzheimer's Association – Greater New Jersey Chapter, the Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities, and Veterans Services, and United Way of Morris County to provide an "Options for Care" workshop. Presenters included members of the Coalition. Over 100 people attended, and the workshop received rave reviews.
Visit the newly revised Caregivers Coalition of Morris County section of this website for lots of new information, resources, links, and more.
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