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Elder Affairs director cites transportation and space as top constraints; asks council to pursue grants
Summary
Director Charma Biswas presented the Department of Elder Affairs FY27 request ($346,263), highlighted transportation, outreach and growing program demand, warned of uncertainty from regional elder-service consolidation and outlined priorities—more vans, additional space and increased programming.
Director Charma Biswas outlined the Department of Elder Affairs budget and services during the Ways and Means FY27 hearing on May 18.
Biswas described three core services: transportation (medical, grocery and MBTA rides), outreach (home visits and friendly visitor programs) and a broad slate of programs (exercise classes, a senior safety fair, dementia education and the December gift tree). She noted staff are supported largely through formula grants and earmarks and emphasized partnerships with the library, public safety and community vendors.
Biswas raised concern about the regional reorganization of Southshore Elder Services into Old Colony Elder Services, explaining some functions—protective services and AAA (area agency on aging) grant administration—are migrating and that the department is working with partners to ensure continuity of Title 3B and other grant-funded services.
On priorities, Biswas said transportation remains critical to seniors' independence: an incoming replacement van is expected in June to retire an aging vehicle with wheelchair-lift battery issues, and earmarked funds could permit purchase of an additional minivan. On space, Biswas said the senior center's single large room constrains programming; she described applying for a Mass Councils on Aging modernization grant (estimated roughly $25,000) to address front-entry and access repairs and said expanded space would allow more simultaneous exercise and social programming.
Committee members pressed for measurable goals and attendance tracking. Biswas said the center uses a swipe/tag system to track program participation and that she will provide next-year attendance numbers; she also confirmed many staff positions are grant-funded and that the center pursues a mix of town support, grants and collaboration to sustain services.
Members thanked Biswas for delivering extensive programs on a limited budget and encouraged continued grant applications and coordination with facilities and the mayor's office on capital needs and funding avenues.
