(Salem, Ore.) -- As of Feb.1, 2018, the state Aging and People with Disabilities office in The Dalles will temporarily deliver aging program services currently provided by the Mid-Columbia Council of Governments. "This action is needed to ensure adequate staffing to support the needs of older adults living in the mid-Columbia region," says Jane-ellen Weidanz, APD administrator for long-term services and support.

With this change, individuals receiving services through the MCCOG's Area Agency on Aging will be served out of the APD office in The Dalles:
* 3641 Klindt Drive, The Dalles, OR 97058
* 541-298-411, 800-452-2333, TTY: 541-298-3270

This interim change in service delivery stems from an Aug. 30, 2017, announcement that the Mid-Columbia Council of Governments would stop serving as the Area Agency on Aging for Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Gilliam and Wheeler counties.

Federal law and state rules dictate how APD designates a new Area Agency on Aging. This past fall, APD held community meetings in the five counties. APD is currently in conversations with a variety of governmental organizations and other entities that could potentially qualify as the new Area Agency on Aging. "The goal is to have a strong replacement program ready to meet the needs of the community," says Weidanz. Those discussions are expected to take about six months.

Individuals wishing to learn about services are encouraged to visit the Aging and Disability Resource Center website at adrcoforegon.org or call 1-855-673-2372.
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