2014-05-08-HSC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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TOWN OF LEXINGTON HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE MAY 8, 2014 Gail Fields open the meeting and introduced a new member, Gail Rogers. Those in attendance were Gail F., Gail R., Barbara Ciampa, Mimi Ballard, , Charlotte Rodgers and Betty Borghesani Norm Cohen. DEPARTMENT REPORT  Charlotte reported that the request for fuel assistance were down this past winter.  Jenna, a Boston U student, has completed her internship.  Charlotte also reported that the Dana Home grant is completed. The target was outreach to seniors (over 65). The grant was used to mail information about services available in Lexington for seniors and to include a Life Support File. Barbara commented that Brookhaven residents did not receive this mailing and asked that they receive this information. The department was able to track contacts and the requests for services. The grant also provided funds for an assistant to assist with this outreach program.  Transportation services will now have GPS devise to help customers track when they will be picked up. There was an increase in requests for senior rides (up 135%). The fare for senior was decreased to $3. There are also taxi services for veterans.  Kelly, who has been the nurse for the department, is retiring and recruitment is underway for that position.  Homelessness was discussed. Here are currently 16 families at the Quality Inn. Charlottes and others in the Lexington community spoke with Jay Kaufman. The services of the Human Services Department are limited because of the restriction of the government offices that work with homeless families. Lexington schools have hired a part time person to provide educational support services. Some of the problems for these families are that there are no safe play areas for the children, petty theft, small living spaces and crime.  The inter-faith organization is sponsoring Lift up Lex which will provide food, diapers and other needs for homeless families, seniors and other vulnerable populations. SENIOR SERVICES Betty reported for the COA. The Senior Center is thriving. They sponsored an awards ceremony for the volunteers. LEXINGTON COMMUNITY CENTER  Charlotte reported that there will be a Wellness Room at the Center which will be expanded in the third year of operation.  Betty, who is on the committee, said the town has approved the budget for the renovations of the Center; however, bids are still out. Hopefully, the construction will be completed by May of 2015.  There are several committees working on different aspects of the Center. One is working on administrative policies and other logistical decisions for the management of the Center.  One discussion is the difference in policies between the Human Service department and the recreation department. The recreation services are on a fee for services basis and the human services are free to their clients.