Notice of Funding Availability for Addressing Social Isolation of Seniors

Pierce County Human Services is announcing a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) to address social isolation for seniors. The Aging and Disability Resources division is soliciting applications from qualified organizations to support older adults in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Roughly $100K is available from the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Act to support up to two different social isolation prevention programs. The intent of this funding is to support home and community-based services—ensuring that the needs of older adults could be met in their local communities. Funding is available through September 2024.

Applications are due no later than 12 p.m. on January 9, 2023. Interested parties may join a workshop using the information below:

                 Social Isolation NOFA Workshop
                 December 12, 2022  |  1 - 2:30 p.m.
                 3602 Pacific Ave. #200 Tacoma, WA 98418

 The “Pandemic Year” brought to the forefront the disproportionate impact of social isolation and loneliness on older adults. Those living in long-term care communities found themselves confined to their rooms, unable to receive anything more than “window visits” from loved ones. For those living alone in the community, the impact was compounded. According to a community survey conducted for the 2022-2023 Area Plan Update, 20% of respondents were caregivers, 40% lived alone, and social isolation and loneliness was ranked as the number one “new” need brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Development of programs that can reach and support older adults who lack supportive social networks, and who are unable to access traditional service settings such as congregate meal sites and senior centers, are key to supporting the emotional well-being of older adults in our communities.

Learn more by visiting www.piercecountywa.gov/HSSB.