Services for Seniors: Addressing Accessibility Challenges
Services for Seniors: Speaker Pashinski During Forum Discussion (PHOTO: US-ASEAN Business Council)
Emphasized Initiatives and Eligibility Changes
In a recent community gathering hosted at the Wilkes-Barre Housing Authority, State Representative Eddie Day Pashinski engaged with local residents to shed light on available services. The aim was to equip residents with insights into accessible programs, eligibility criteria, and avenues for application or assistance.
Judy Kosloski, the Executive Director of the Housing Authority, highlighted a common challenge faced by residents: accessibility to government offices for application processes. She emphasized the significance of having informational sessions on-site, providing residents with crucial contacts for assistance, particularly those with limited mobility.
During the meeting, a number of initiatives pertaining to pharmaceutical assistance, unclaimed property, driving safety, and property tax rebates were emphasized. Notably, recent changes to the eligibility requirements have increased the number of residents who may now apply for aid for which they would not have otherwise been eligible.
Expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program was one that saw a significant increase in participation. For both homeowners and renters, the maximum standard rebate increased from $650 to $1,000. Additionally, the annual income threshold for eligibility was increased to $45,000, with provisions for increases based on changes in the cost of living. Crucially, recipients of rebates will continue to be eligible even in cases where their circumstances are beyond of their control.
Representative Pashinski emphasized the value of knowledge in gaining access to resources and asked locals to look into possible programs for which they might be eligible. By being proactive, we hope to enable members of the community to access essential, individually-tailored support systems.
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