Senator William H. Nickerson (R-Greenwich), a member of the Bond Commission, announced today that, at his request, a $500,000 grant to Greenwich Adult Day Care (GADC) has been placed on the agenda for the Bond Commission meeting on Friday August 6. The funds will be used as part of the $2,240,000 construction cost of renovating a building on the Post Road in Greenwich to provide a new home for GADC. The remaining funds will come from a community developed block grant from the Town of Greenwich and private fund raising.

At present GADC occupies space in the basement of Nathaniel Witherell building which will be demolished as part of the plan to build a new nursing home facility on the property. The new home for GADC is the former pump house for the Cos Cob Power Plant which has been vacant for many years. GADC also plans to raise from private donors an additional $2.6 million for new fixtures, furniture, startup expenses and establishing an endowment.

Nickerson said, "For 27 years GADC has provided much needed day care to impaired and isolated seniors of Greenwich as well as respite to their caregivers. With GADC seniors are able to live at home and receive community based services versus the alternative of expensive nursing home care. Expanding and improving adult day care services is a key component in the process of providing a continuum of services for Greenwich seniors. The new Nathaniel Witherell is also a part of this innovative plan, which moves away from the old, outmoded model of "live alone at home - then move to a skilled nursing home." Today we know that both seniors and the town are far better served by providing a variety of options, including expanded day care."

"The grant announced today is an outstanding example of the state's role in partnering with non-profits to provide for services to seniors. Nearly 16% of Greenwich's population is over 65 and this group is growing more rapidly than others. The new facility will provide improved opportunities for individualized programs, deferring institutional living and much needed respite for family and caregivers. GADC will increase its capacity from 50 to 75 clients per day."

"I appreciate having Governor Rell's support of this important grant. Friday will mark her first opportunity to preside over a Bond Commission meeting as Governor, and it is most gratifying to know that among her first acts is support of seniors at GADC."