LeadingAge New York State Budget Review April 2017 | Page 13

• • • • Congregate Services Initiative: The final budget includes the Executive proposal to level-fund CSI at $403,000. The appropriation language states that no expenditures shall be made from this appropriation until the director of the budget has approved a plan submitted by the office outlining the amounts and purpose of such expenditures and the allocation of funds among the counties. This program provides information and assistance, referral, transportation, nutrition, socialization, education, counseling and caregiver support to persons in senior centers and other congregate settings. Livable NY Initiative: The final budget accepts the Executive proposal to level-fund this program at $122,500. The program is aimed at creating neighborhoods that consider the evolving needs and preferences of all their residents. Title XX funding: The final budget accepts the Executive proposal to level fund Title XX at $66 million. A portion of this funding has gone to support senior centers and senior services in New York City, as well as Nassau, Steuben and Erie counties. Technical assistance/training for Area Agencies on Aging: The final budget includes the Executive proposal to allocate $250,000 for the Association on Aging in New York State; level funded from last year. This is to provide training, education and technical assistance to area agencies on aging and aging network contractors to help them adapt to changes in the health and long term care policy environment. For more information, contact Cheryl Udell at [email protected] or 518-867-8871. LeadingAge New York/April 2017 Page 12