WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman John Barrow (GA-12) announced today that Georgia's seniors will receive $2.4 million in nutrition assistance funding from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The State of Georgia will receive $1,625,678 for congregate nutrition services, and $800,334 for home-delivered nutrition services.

"Seniors have been hit hard by this economic crisis, and we need to make sure they're getting the food they need," said Barrow.  "In some cases, they lost the income they used to pay for their own food.  In other cases, they've relied on services that the states might have to eliminate due to severe budget cuts.  Either way, they need our help.  It's the right thing to do."

Singed into law on February 17, 2009, by President Obama and supported by Congressman Barrow in the House, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 contains key investments that will prevent the loss of health coverage, promote prevention programs, and lower health care spending for our nation during these challenging economic times. To help older Americans maintain their health and independence, the legislation includes $100 million for meals and nutrition services under the Older Americans Act (OAA), as follows:

·        $65 million for congregate nutrition services;

·        $32 million for home-delivered nutrition services; and

·        $3 million for Native American nutrition services.

These funds will provide meals to seniors in need of food, restore nutrition services that have been cut, and restore positions which may have been eliminated or reduced. 

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Contact:  Jane Brodsky, (202) 225-2823

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