February 2010

 

(Sally Kidd has been Senior Services Director for the Menominee-Delta-Schoolcraft Community Action Agency for the past 15 years. The agency operates seven senior centers throughout the three-county region. A message from Sally will be part of the monthly newsletter distributed by each of the centers.)
Sally Kidd
As far as I’m concerned, it’s no coincidence that the shortest month of the year — February — can be found right smack in the middle of winter. Anything we can do to make if feel like winter is passing as quickly as possible is alright in my book.
There are programs and events available now and scheduled for the near future that may make your winter go even a bit easier.
At the top are the “Extra Help” Program and Medicare Savings Program. Both, part of the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program, aim to find and assist over 7,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Michigan who have not applied for benefits they are entitled to.
The “Extra Help” Program helps beneficiaries pay for their monthly prescription premiums, co-pays and/or their annual deductibles. Seniors could save up to $3,900 each from the program.
The income limitation is $1,353.75 a month for an individual or $1,821.25 a month for a married couple. The asset or resource limits for an individual is $12,510 or $25,010 for a married couple. It’s important to remember that, in some instances, these limits may be higher.
The Medicare Savings Program helps beneficiaries pay for the Medicare Part B premiums, co-pays and/or deductibles. Income limit for an individual is $1,219 a month or $6,000 for a couple. For more information, call 1-800-562-9131. You may also call me at (906) 786-7080.
Another important number to remember is 1-800-347-5297. That will put you in contact with the Elder Law of Michigan Benefits Enrollment Center. Professionals at the center, free of charge, help adults over 60 and persons with disabilities during these difficult financial times. Those eligible may get help paying for medicine, health care, groceries, heating, telephone, taxes and other basic needs.
Even though it’s a bit off into the future, it’s never too early to mark your calendars for May 7. That’s when the eighth annual Delta County on Aging U.P. Regional Conference is slated for at the Danforth Place just outside of Escanaba.
This year’s lineup promises to include fun and important presentations on health, finances, and other issues that affect all senior citizens. Look for more details in next month’s newsletter.
A big worldwide event taking place in February is the Winter Olympics. This beautiful competition should motivate all of us to get outside, even in these conditions — using proper precautions and good sense — to enjoy the beauty and get some exercise. A walk outdoors, even if it means parking your car just a little further away from the shop than you usually do, could pay some dividends.
Speaking of walking outdoors in the cold, the Community Action Agency’s Walk for Warmth is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 27, in both Escanaba and Menominee. The event raises funds to help people pay their heating bills. If you’re able to help out please write a check to Walk for Warmth and send it to either: Delta County Walk for Warmth, 507 1st Ave. N., Escanaba; or Menominee Walk for Warmth, P.O. Box 213, Menominee. Even though no walk is taking pace in Schoolcraft County, we will still accept funds to be used solely for residents there. Just make out checks to Schoolcraft County Walk for Warmth and mail it to 507 1st Ave. N., Escanaba
Even if you find yourself to be the one in need, call your senior center or 786-7080 (Escanaba) or 863-3042 (Menominee) and ask about home heating assistance.
You may also call your senior center to get free help with preparing your tax documents, or with Home Heating and Homestead Property tax credits.
Thanks for taking part in all the events at your senior center and utilizing all the services provided by your center. Winter in the U.P. is beautiful. It is the goal of all our senior centers to add to that beauty.

 

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CAA Mission Statement
"Providing opportunities for people of all ages and means to improve their quality of life through advocacy, education, housing, nutrition, volunteerism and support services."