UCDD Officials highlighted the growing reach of regional community programs as officials reviewed quarterly impact data during Wednesday’s meeting.
Executive Director Mark Farley said the agencies utilize dashboards to track the effectiveness of services ranging from senior healthcare assistance to housing and economic development. Farley said the Aging Department recently assisted 4,104 individuals with Medicare Part D, a program that has historically saved regional seniors significant money on drug plans.
“I know in the past we’ve had some that save close to a $1 million a year through going through our program there, so it’s it’s tremendous depending on the situation, your drug situation,” Farley said.
Farley said the Housing and Family Services department is currently serving 257 children through the Relative Caregiver program. He said the program, which primarily supports grandparents raising grandchildren, is seeing its highest enrollment numbers to date as the regional’s childcare needs continue to develop.
“It doesn’t have to be grandparents raising grandkids, but the majority are grandparents raising grandkids,” Farley said. “And I’m going to tell you, we’ve got more in that program now than we ever have.”
UCDD officials also recognized the Small Business Development Center for facilitating $3.62 million in economic capital infusion over the last six months. Farley said the regional planning team submitted 22 grants totaling $13.8 million during the most recent quarter.
“Our mission is to help the citizens of this region cultivate self-sufficiency and true wealth through innovation, collaboration and leadership,” Farley said. “And I truly believe the employees of these two agencies live that each and every day.”
Community Services Director LaNelle Godsey said the agency is currently prioritizing outreach for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) following a transition to an online application process. She said the agency is working to ensure residents know they can receive in-person assistance at local county offices to complete the digital requirements.
“We know that there are still folks out there that need assistance with LIHEAP and they’re not being able to get through on the computer and complete that application,” LaNell said. “We want folks to come to our office, even though you have to apply online we can walk you through those steps.”
In other business, the Small Business Development Center recognized Smithville Tire & Alignment owner Matthew Lawrence for grossing over $1 million in revenue in their first year of business. Lawrence and his wife, Mindy, were presented with the SBDC Rising Star Award.
“Thank you for one, approving the loan a few years ago,” Lawrence said. “I’m truly honored to be receiving the Rising Star Award. I would sincerely like to thank UCDD. I truly couldn’t have got this business off the ground without you guys, with the financing and all the help throughout.”