Molinaro Receives 2014 Champion for Elder Rights & Safety Award

Poughkeepsie… Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro has been honored by the Coalition on Elder Abuse in Dutchess County, as this year's recipient of the Champion for Elder Rights & Safety Award. The award is presented to an individual for their leadership, innovation and community involvement in the field of elder abuse awareness. County Executive Molinaro said, "I am honored to be selected as this year’s recipient of the Champion for Elder Rights & Safety Award. Through our Agency Partner Grant Program, the County has been able to fund educational initiatives and awareness campaigns aimed at addressing elder abuse in our community."

County Executive Molinaro joined elected officials, nonprofit agencies, business leaders, and members of the community this morning in Millbrook at the Farm & Home Center to recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day at an annual event hosted by the Coalition on Elder Abuse in Dutchess County. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living, Each year, an estimated 5 million older persons are abused, neglected, and exploited. In addition, elders throughout the United States lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation, funds that could have been used to pay for basic needs such as housing, food, and medical care.

The Coalition’s purpose is to band together with community members and the public and private sector to protect elders from abuse, neglect and exploitation and to preserve the quality of their lives.

The Coalition on Elder Abuse in Dutchess County falls under the auspices of the Mediation Center of Dutchess County. More information can be viewed online here: http://www.dutchessmediation.org/coalition-on-elder-abuse-in-dutchess-county.