Karen's Plan: Enhancing Senior Services In New Castle County - A Commitment to Excellence
As your candidate for New Castle County Executive, my focus on senior services underscores my commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our elderly residents. With eight years of experience as the President of New Castle County Council, I have consistently supported, advocated for, and initiated numerous programs and services that directly benefit our senior community. Under my leadership, health and wellness initiatives like the Delaware Assistance Prescription Program and the Vial of L.I.F.E have been expanded, ensuring our seniors have access to crucial health information and nutritious meals. The Senior Home Repair Loan Program offers financial assistance for essential home repairs, while our senior centers provide a range of recreational and educational activities. Financial assistance through tax exemptions and sewer service charge reductions eases the financial burden on our senior residents. Community safety programs like the Police Senior Roll Call Lifeline enhance the well-being of isolated seniors. My future plans as County Executive include expanding senior services, increasing funding and resources, fostering partnerships, advocating for affordable housing, improving communication and outreach, and strengthening community support. With your support, we can build a community that truly cares for its elderly residents, ensuring they feel valued, supported, and empowered. Experience matters, and with my proven track record, I am dedicated to leading New Castle County toward a brighter future for all, especially our seniors.
Enhancing Senior Services in New Castle County:
A Commitment to Excellence
​
As your candidate for New Castle County Executive, my focus on senior services underscores the commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our elderly residents. With eight years of experience as the President of New Castle County Council, I have consistently supported, advocated for, and initiated numerous programs and services that directly benefit our senior community. Experience matters and my track record speaks to the dedication and innovation brought to improving senior services in our County.
​
Services and Programs​​​
​​​
Health and Wellness Initiatives
Emergency and Home
Repair Programs
Senior Centers, Recreational and Educational Activities
New Castle County offers a variety of health-related services for seniors, including blood pressure screenings, arthritis classes, and the Delaware Assistance Prescription Program. The Absalom Jones Senior Center provides access to nutritious meals and transportation, ensuring seniors can participate in daily activities and maintain their health and social connections​. Programs such as the Vial of L.I.F.E provide lifesaving information for emergencies, ensuring that medical responders have quick access to crucial health information during emergencies​.
To help seniors maintain their homes, the county administers the Senior Home Repair Loan Program, offering 0% interest loans for necessary home repairs focused on health, safety, and security. This program provides financial assistance up to $7,500 per eligible household​.
The County’s senior centers, like the Absalom Jones Senior Center and others, offer a range of activities, including fitness classes, art programs, and social events. Virtual senior programs also ensure continued engagement and activity for those who prefer or need to stay at home​. These activities aim to keep seniors active, engaged, and connected with their community​.
Financial Assistance
Senior residents benefit from tax exemptions and sewer service charge reductions, easing their financial burden. Programs like the Senior Tax Exemption and the State Senior School Property Tax Credit offer significant savings for eligible seniors​. Qualifying seniors may receive a reduction of the taxable assessed value of their property by $32,000 and are eligible for a 50% credit on school taxes, up to $500​.
Community and
Safety Programs
The Police Senior Roll Call Lifeline Program provides regular check-ins for isolated seniors, enhancing their safety and well-being. Additionally, the County offers various volunteer opportunities and community events specifically designed for seniors​.
My Contributions and Future Plans
​
During my tenure as President of the New Castle County Council, I have:
​
-
Supported legislation to increase funding for senior services and programs.
​
-
Advocated for innovative initiatives to enhance the living standards and safety of our senior residents.
​
-
Ensured the provision of comprehensive health, wellness, and recreational programs.
​
As County Executive, I will:
Expand Senior Services
Continue to expand and improve services offered to seniors, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of our aging population.
Increase funding and resources
Improve senior centers, virtual programs, home repair, health programs, and financial assistance initiatives ensuring that all seniors have access to high-quality services regardless of their location.
Foster Partnerships
Work with local organizations to provide diverse and inclusive activities for seniors.
Advocate for Affordable Housing
Work towards creating more affordable housing options specifically designed for seniors, ensuring they have safe and affordable places to live.
Improve Communication and Outreach
Enhance our communication efforts to ensure seniors are aware of and can easily access the services and benefits available to them.
Strengthen Community Support
Foster partnerships with local organizations and volunteers to provide additional support and services to our senior residents
My vision for New Castle County includes creating an environment where seniors feel valued, supported, and empowered. By continuing to enhance the services provided and addressing the specific needs of our senior population, we can make New Castle County a model of excellence in senior care.
​
With your support, we can build a community that truly cares for its elderly residents. Experience matters, and with my proven track record, I am dedicated to leading New Castle County toward a brighter future for all, especially our seniors.