COUNCIL                                                 _________

Delaware County Council is extending the county’s outreach to senior citizens to help them navigate today’s challenging economic climate. Several county offices can provide information, referrals and resources that can be of valuable assistance to senior citizens.

“Our goal is to provide senior citizens with the tools they need to navigate today’s challenging economic climate, and to inform them about the many services and programs that are available to them through county government,” said County Council Vice-Chairman Jack Whelan, Council’s liaison to the County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA.)

“Studies indicate that during a recession, those hardest hit are senior citizens on fixed incomes. Not only do their benefits and investments decrease, but there is an increase in the number of predators who will offer them get-rich fixes that are fraudulent. That’s why it’s so important that we educate our seniors and help them find solutions to maintain their quality of life, during all economic conditions,” Councilman Whelan said.

The following county programs are a good resource for seniors:

· COSA: Seniors can turn to COSA for information on a wide variety of assistance and counseling services including health insurance counseling, crime victim services, legal services, volunteer opportunities, nursing home eligibility and community-based services and in-home supports. Seniors can get help with the confusing paperwork often involved in changing insurance or accessing services. Call (610) 490-1300 or visit http://www.delcosa.org/.

· Consumer Affairs: This is the watchdog for all consumers regarding major purchases and transactions, particularly in the area of home repairs, credit issues and tenant/landlord agreements. More than 50 percent of the complaints filed with Consumer Affairs are by senior citizens who are often more vulnerable to consumer fraud. The Consumer Affairs staff can help seniors do research before a transaction, and they can mediate problems when they arise, to ensure each consumer gets what they are paying for. Call (610) 891-4865 or visit www.co.delaware.pa.us.

· Veterans Affairs: This department helps veterans and their families apply for certain benefits from the state and federal governments for which they are eligible. These benefits include federal pensions for veterans or their widows and real estate tax exemptions for veterans with 100 percent service-related disabilities. Veterans can also get assistance to gain admission to the Veterans Administration hospitals or treatment programs. Applications for burial and headstone allotments are also processed through Veterans Affairs. Call (610) 891-4646.

· Treasurer’s Tax Claim Bureau: The duty of the Tax Claim Bureau is to collect delinquent taxes for school districts, municipalities and the county. Representatives can help seniors understand the collection process and the on-account payment agreements that are offered to people with financial hardships. Call (610) 891-4284.

· District Attorney’s Office, Senior Exploitation Unit: This unit educates seniors about crimes such as identity theft, fiduciary theft, credit care theft or misuse, and financial or physical abuse. During challenging economic times, seniors are more likely to fall victim to exploitation. Call (610) 891-5249 or visit www.delcoda.com.

“Today’s recession can be particularly hard on seniors who are living on a fixed income. We want to ensure that they are able to remain in their own homes and communities with appropriate supports,” said Council Vice-Chair Whelan.