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Entergy Funds Hudson River HealthCare HUGs Program
Intergenerational program improves lives of youth, seniors
Hudson River HealthCare is pleased to announce that they have received a $10,000 grant from Entergy in support of its HUGs (Health Unites Generations) Program.
HUGs is an intergenerational program that fosters relationships between seniors over the age of 65 residing in federally subsidized apartment buildings in the City of Peekskill, and teens, ages 13 through 21 by providing opportunities for Peekskill youth and seniors to share their talents and resources, and support each other in relationships that benefit both the individuals and the community as a whole. After completing an initial training, the youth participate for one year in both stipended and nonstipended activities. These activities alternate between youth development activities, community service learning projects, and senior mentoring sessions. A special effort is made to engage seniors who are low-income, frail, isolated or alienated. The year-long intergenerational activities culminate in a Senior Prom, a social celebration where the youth and seniors gather and share music, conversation and their new relationships.
"This program has the potential to have a profound impact on the lives of two especially vulnerable populations: at-risk youth and isolated senior citizens," stated HRHCare President & CEO, Anne Kauffman Nolon.
HUGs will provide the youth with an opportunity to develop confidence and self-esteem, and strengthen leadership and employability skills, while developing improved attitudes toward aging. At the same time, this program reduces isolation and loneliness for seniors as well as daily physical stress, through concrete assistance provided by the youth which will work toward improving attitudes toward adolescents. Ultimately, it is anticipated that seniors will develop a greater and more compliant response to their own health care.
Entergy spokesman, Jim Steers, said "Entergy has long recognized the value of the many services Hudson River HealthCare provides to the communities it serves, and this unique project is no exception. We are proud to be a partner with HRHCare, and supporter of the HUGs program."
Founded in 1975, Hudson River HealthCare is a network of 14 community health centers serving thousands of families throughout the Hudson Valley and Eastern Long Island. Nationally recognized for its award-winning programs and services, HRHCare accepts most insurance including Medicare, Medicaid and Child Health Plus. For those who are without insurance, a sliding fee scale is available, based on family size and income. For more information about HUGs, or to locate a Health Center convenient to you, call 914-734-8736.
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