In 1998, Genesee County Seniors were notified of a $7 million windfall. The Rochester Area Community Foundation announced the establishment of the Muriel H. Marshall Fund for the Aging in Genesee County by the late Roxanne Marshall in honor of her mother. A planning team exists which determines ways to best meet the non-medical needs of Genesee County seniors, establish guidelines, and to review grants and make recommendations for funding local programs and services. Monies are available perpetually by use of the interest earned off of the principal. It is expected to be approximately $400,000 per year. Some programs have been funded annually and some are one time grants or pilot projects. Future grants will be awarded based on the recommendation of the planning team. The planning team consists of seniors representing the various geographical areas of Genesee County.

Handyman Program

The Handyman Program is designed to provide seniors with minor home repairs. Some types of services available are minor electrical or plumbing repairs, installing safety devices or modifications, changing light bulbs, window and screen repair. For more information, contact Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611 for more information.

Home Visitors Program

The Home Visitor Program offers weekly visits to homebound Genesee County Seniors 60 years of age and older to provide socialization, companionship, and assistance.  This outreach also offers an opportunity for volunteers to apply “action” to their belief that a few hours spent helping others is a rich investment of their time.  Services provided include friendly visits, non-medical assistance, light housekeeping, telephone reassurance, light yard work, assistance with correspondence, assistance with meal preparation, linkage and referrals, errands, hobbies, crafts and special interests such as reading, puzzles, music, or card games.  To inquire about the Home Visitor Program, contact Catholic Charities at (585) 343-0614.

Services to the Aging in Genesee County (SAGE)

Services to the Aging (SAGE) is a program that provides library services to homebound and resident senior citizens in the County. Seniors who are confined to their homes because of extended illness, physical disability, or transportation problems, and who would like to enjoy the benefits that a library has to offer are eligible for the services of this program. The program provides access to books, music, videos, and magazines. In order to enjoy these materials, there are some assistive devices available for those with handicaps. To inquire about this program, contact the SAGE Program at Richmond Memorial Library at (585) 343-9550.

Transportation

There are a number of transportation services made available through the Muriel H. Marshall fund for seniors who need help getting in and out of their homes. Some services range from getting people to doctors' appointments, banking, hair appointments, Adult Day Care as well as social day trips for senior groups. To find out more about the transportation services available, contact Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.