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1993.07.27 :  Flood Disaster Relief Assistance 

Contact:  Danielle Rose (202) 401-4541
July 27, 1993

     Fernando M. Torres-Gil, Assistant Secretary for Aging in the Department
of Health and Human Services, has announced that the Administration on Aging
will distribute approximately $500,000 set aside for disaster relief
assistance as an immediate response to states devastated by floods in the
Midwest.
     HHS Secretary Donna E. Shalala said that "AoA's aid to the flood-stricken
Midwest is an important piece of the department-wide effort to maintain the
services and the public health of the region."
     "These floods have had a catastrophic impact on the citizens of the
Midwest, in particular the hundreds of thousands of elderly people whose lives
have been interrupted," said Torres-Gil.  "I am very proud of the quick
response of the aging network -- AoA's regional office staff, the state
offices and area agencies on aging, and the hundreds of providers and
volunteers who serve throughout those states.
     "Many have put aside their own personal disasters to aid not only the
elderly, but all residents of their communities It he added.  "I commend all
involved and hope that the disaster assistance we are providing will allow
these older Americans to reclaim their lives. of Approved funds are being
distributed on a case-by-case basis to states requesting emergency assistance. 
While the states have discretion over spending, the money will be directed
toward reimbursing the area agencies on aging that have been opening the doors
of their congregate meal centers to all flood victims, and providing services
such as moving, lifting, cleanup of debris, and supplying drinking water to
people of all ages.
     Torres-Gil expressed his hope that the money will be directed to those
who are most in need, noting, "We are particularly concerned about the
vulnerable elderly who will require special assistance and support." A
representative for AoA has been sent to the Midwest to assess and assist in
coordinating efforts with FEMA and the Public Health service.
     Torres-Gil will be traveling to Iowa to tour the flood-ravaged sites.  "I
plan on visiting some of the areas damaged by the floods and the congregate
meal facilities nearby.  They have opened their doors not only to the elderly,
but to all victims of the disaster," he said.  "I hope to be able to offer
moral support and encouragement to these courageous people, and to let them
know that America is praying for their rapid recovery."
     The Administration on Aging is the lead advocate agency for older persons
and their concerns at the federal level.  It works closely with its nationwide
network of regional offices and state and area agencies on aging to meet the
needs of the elderly.