Denver — Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Colorado $13.4 million from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to support older adults and people with disabilities during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. This funding, which was included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, will be distributed to Colorado organizations including Centers for Independent Living, senior centers, Home and Community Based Services providers and non-profits that support older Americans and people with disabilities. The new funding will also help sustain essential programs such as at-home meal delivery, in-home care, and support for caregivers. 

“This grant is welcome news for Colorado to help us keep seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers safe during this pandemic,” said Bennet. “Older Coloradans and those with underlying or preexisting conditions are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, and I will continue pushing for more support to ensure that our most vulnerable communities have everything they need to stay healthy during this difficult time.” 

The $13.4 million grant will supplement services outlined in the Older Americans Act and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act such as home-delivered meals, in-home care services, respite care and other support for families and caregivers, information and referrals to other support, and more state and local programs. More information on the funding awards from HHS and the ACL is available HERE. A breakdown of the funding awarded to the states is available HERE.