Ohio’s Healthy Aging Grants program is providing $40 million in support of local aging services focused on helping Ohioans ages 60 and older stay healthy, live longer, and maintain their independence.

Funds are being distributed to counties in every area of the state to bolster critical aging supports, such as food and housing assistance, as well as internet access and digital literacy services. Healthy Aging Grants are also designed to be flexible – supporting local aging programs making the biggest impact in their area.

In Washington County, the Commissioner’s office was able to award the O’Neill Center funding to provide seniors with minor home modifications. O’Neill was able to offer minor modifications to 20 seniors that included grab bars, handrails, ground fault outlets, steps, hot water tanks, and ramps.

Washington County Commission President James Booth stated “In working with the O’Neill Center, I see the benefits that they provide for the seniors in Washington County. I believe that the work they do provides a better lifestyle for those that take advantage of their opportunities.”

In a Feb. 29 commission meeting, Booth said approximately $48,000 would go to Washington-Morgan Community Action, which is a nonprofit that helps underserved individuals and their families in Washington and Morgan counties; approximately $48,000 would go to the O’Neill Center, which is a nonprofit-run senior center in Marietta; and approximately $96,000 would go to the Buckeye Hills Regional Council. Also, digital literacy classes will be taught by David Brown, who has a cybersecurity background and will include information on senior fraud, according to Booth.