[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 117 (Thursday, August 18, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: August 18, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
        SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM IS GREENE COUNTY SUCCESS STORY

                                 ______


                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, August 18, 1994

  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, there are a number of Federal programs that 
are inefficient or just plain do not work. But let me say a few words 
today about one of the good programs, one which performs a vital 
service for an important segment of the population at a reasonable 
cost.
  I'm speaking about the Senior Companion Program, which has brightened 
the lives of both the volunteers and those whom they have served in 
Greene County in upstate New York since 1989.
  The Senior Companion Program consists entirely of volunteers aged 60 
or over. They provide a variety of services that professional, full-
time health-related agencies would be hard-pressed to offer. For 
example, many volunteers simply provide companionship, keeping an eye 
on home-bound older Americans, many of whom no longer have living 
relatives.
  These volunteers often become advocates and advisors for their 
charges, informing them about available services and helping them 
enroll in other programs. Or, volunteers might give family members 
responsible for an ailing relative a few hours of relief. Some even do 
some light housekeeping chores, or help with managing household 
budgets.
  Invariably, solid friendships are often formed between volunteers and 
the beneficiaries of this program. Many even spend holidays with them.
  The volunteers get a great deal of satisfaction, Mr. Speaker, from 
their participation in this program, and so does the entire community. 
Imagine how far this program goes in cutting down the cost of home 
health aids and other expenses, which can be prohibitive.
  Beyond that, Mr. Speaker, I can think of few things more all-American 
than this program, which features neighbor helping neighbor.
  The Senior Companion Program of Greene County will be holding its 
annual recognition luncheon on September 6, and I'm looking forward to 
being there.
  Meanwhile, Mr. Speaker, I would like this House to commend Terry La 
Sala, program director, whose enthusiasm and dedication are such 
important factors in the program's success, and everyone else 
affiliated with this effort. Thanks to such people, the Senior 
Companion Program has become a success story of which we can all be 
proud.

                          ____________________