Ginger Thompson

Don’t Delay the Medicaid Extension!

RICHMOND _ When Barry Noel lost his job five years ago he had difficulty finding and affording health insurance for his family, including five children.

A family of three making just $6,000 a year doesn't qualify for Medicaid. Individuals 50-to 64-year-old (without dependent children) do not qualify for Medicaid regardless of income. Many Virginians living in poverty do not qualify for Medicaid and cannot afford private health care insurance --even with the subsidies that will be offered through the health benefits exchange.Expanding Medicaid will help older Virginians who have lost their jobs or are in jobs without health benefits get affordable care. It will provide coverage for hardworking people who’ve paid in all their lives but are now struggling to make ends meet. Over 62,000 Virginians ages 50-64 would have access to health care coverage if Medicaid is expanded in our state.The time to take action is now! Call 1-800-211-0914 and tell your state Senator to support the budget amendment to change the Medicaid income guidelines. You can also send an email to your legislator.

The Commonwealth Council on Aging is sponsoring the 2013 Best Practices Award Program funded by Dominion Power targeted to organizations serving older Virginians and their families. As we struggle to meet the challenges of serving a rapidly aging population during a time of budget cuts and growing demand, we need to share our best practices and applaud our successes. Instructions, nomination forms, and information on previous Best Practices Award Winners are on the Commonwealth Council on Aging’s website www.vda.virgina.gov/council.asp. Nominations for the 2013 Awards must be received by March 1, 2013.

By Jean Setzfand, Vice President, Financial Security, AARP Education & Outreach

The Virginia Black History Month Association will host cultural events in Fredericksburg in February to commemorate, celebrate and educate the community on the accomplishments of African Americans. Events include the Annual Prayer Breakfast, Chapel Service, Theater Presentation and a Formal Dinner. Each event is open to the public and everyone is welcomed!

Steve Scheibe is the 2012 recipient of the Fredericksburg Area AARP Chapter 3396 Wilson Corley Community Service Award. Scheibe has made a tremendous impact in the Fredericksburg area through his community service. He currently serves as President of the Fredericksburg Chapter. In addition, he represents AARP and TRIAD at information tables at numerous regional events such as the Art of Aging. For many years, Scheibe has volunteered with the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s.” He also has dedicated significant time and energy to volunteering with the Fredericksburg Area Food Bank. He has spent many Saturday mornings filling boxes with food to benefit hungry families.

MEASURE WOULD PROVIDE HEALTH CARE TO 62,000 VIRGINIANS AGE 50-64

BOB BLANCATO WILL REPRESENT MORE THAN 1 MILLION AARP MEMBERS STATEWIDE

AARP Virginia State Office 901 East Byrd Street, Suite 1005 Richmond, VA 23219 Toll-free: 1-866-542-8164 Fax: 804-819-1923 Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.