Feingold Hails Renewal of Older Americans Act Senator Cosponsored Reauthorization of Act, Which Funds Vital Seniors’ Programs November 27, 2000 Onalaska, WI – Senator Russ Feingold today hailed Congress’ renewal of the Older Americans Act as an important victory for seniors. Feingold was proud to support the bill to reauthorize the Older Americans Act, which funds a wide range of seniors’ programs, including elderly nutrition programs, home care services, and elder abuse prevention services. President Clinton signed the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act into law on November 13th. "The Older Americans Act promotes the independence and well-being of millions of our nation's senior citizens," Feingold said. "I’m very pleased that these vital programs are getting a commitment of support for the long-term with the renewal of the Older Americans Act." By helping to fund senior centers, the Older Americans Act plays a critical role in the support network and friendships of senior citizens who might otherwise be isolated in their homes. The Act also addresses seniors' nutritional health by providing meals at senior centers and delivering them to seniors' homes. In addition to the nutrition program, the Act funds the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which investigates complaints made by or on behalf of seniors who are residents of long-term care facilities. By funding home care and elder abuse prevention services, the Act works to protect the well being of seniors at risk for suffering abuse and comes to the aide of seniors who need help at home. "Along with Social Security and Medicare, the Older Americans Act plays a central part in enabling seniors to live with dignity as they age," Feingold said. "The Older Americans Act supports seniors, and I’m proud that Congress has given its full support to the Older Americans Act." Feingold's 70th Listening Session of 2000, and 574th since he was first elected, was held at the Onalaska City Hall beginning at 9:45 a.m.

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