April 23, 2010– Anniston, Alabama, The Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama has awarded a grant to the Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network (Alabama Respite). The Alabama Respite Caregiver Support Project is made possible by a grant from the Foundation’s Stringfellow Health Fund. A joint effort with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES), the project will provide training, support and respite funding to persons caring for individuals with disabilities or chronic illness living in Calhoun County.
“Caregivers need a break in order to recharge and refresh themselves. Respite is that short break that can make a world of difference and decrease the chance of caregiver stress or burnout,” says Linda Lamberth, Program Manager.
“The Community Foundation’s grant making program provides funds to support area programs throughout Calhoun County,” said Eula Tatman, Vice President. “Partnering with the Respite Resource Network meets the Foundation’s mission, which is to encourage and expand permanent charitable resources dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Northeast Alabama.”
A study, done in 2009 by AARP, shows 31% of U.S. households are now involved in care giving. An estimated 570,000 caregivers in Alabama are providing over 600 million unpaid hours of care for loved ones living at home. The 2000 U.S. Census reported over 25,000 individuals in Calhoun County with a recognized disability and 15,433 over the age of 65 - those who now or may soon need or be a caregiver.
Alabama Respite is a statewide project of United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville and Tennessee Valley, Inc., with the Central and South Alabama office located in Calhoun County.
To receive an application for a respite voucher or for information on the caregiver support group or respite night out, contact Ms. Lamberth at 256 237-3683.
