August 2020 Meeting Highlights:

The Legislature unanimously voted to recognize September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society reports that cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among United States children between infancy and age 15. Recognition of the ubiquity of childhood cancer could increase the rate of early detection, lead to newer and improved treatments, and cause an overall higher survival rate for children who are diagnosed.

Health – The Legislature authorized a contract with the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program (TRIP) to use funding from the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program to create a healthier living environment for residents.

Mental Health – The Legislature also authorized a contract with the Department of Mental Health to provide various Rensselaer County schools with substance abuse prevention staff and services for the 2020-2021 school year.

 COVID-19 Relief – The New York State Office for Aging has received federal stimulus funding through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) which provides services for Congregate Meals and Home Delivered Meals, and can also be used for any disaster relief services for older adults. Rensselaer County has experienced a significant increase in the number of Home Delivered Meals and In-Home Support needs, and the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds will be utilized to partially offset the increase in expenses related to these programs.

NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, September 8, 2020 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located on the 3rd floor of the Ned Pattison Government Center, 1600 7th Avenue, Troy.

Residents are welcome to contact our office at 270-2890.

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