Monroe County allocates $700K to boost home health care access for African American families
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – Monroe County leaders announced an investment worth more than $700,000 Monday. The initiative, officials say, is aimed to boost access to home health care for African American families, while striving to promote equity and address long-standing disparities for many who call Rochester home.
The funds come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and will go toward expanding home health care education and outreach with a focus on Monroe County's African American communities.
'Pastors are helping members to connect with our services. These individuals may have never even known that these services were available,' said Deanna McEwen, a compliance nurse for HCR Home Care.
McEwen says the partnership with HCR Home Care and faith leaders will offer improved access to quality health care at home, which will be covered by insurance for eligible seniors.
'Too many of our neighbors, especially black residents, are facing barriers to health care. Monroe County life expectancy can differ by nearly nine years based on what zip code you live in and the color of your skin. Every family is different. Some older adults may not have access to transportation. They may not be able to see a doctor regularly, and some may not have family nearby who can check on them as often as others. Some may outlive their own next of kin or their spouse. Many of our older adults and families may not know about the affordability, accessibility, and benefits of at-home health care services and sometimes those services are out of reach for them,' said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello.
Leaders say part of the focus will include skillsets such as pastor-focused briefings, workforce training, and caregiver development.
'A lot of fear comes in because people think, 'If I get home care, maybe I have to lose my home.' But, this is just the opposite. We are saying you can get services in your home, have family involvement, and have spiritual involvement. So, really, we're finding most seniors 65 and up who have Medicare will cover these services right in the comfort of your own home,' said McEwen.
Those interested in learning more about HCR Home Care will host informational sessions at various Rochester churches this Sunday, May 11.
The following locations will be included:
New Life Fellowship, 330 Wellington Avenue, Rochester NY 14619
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 141 Adams Street, Rochester NY 14608
First Church of God, 334 Clarissa Street, Rochester NY 14608
Prayer House Church of God by Faith, 270 Cumberland Street, Rochester NY 14605
In Christ New Hope Ministry, 155 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623
Helping Hands Missionary Baptist Church, 703 Joseph Avenue, Rochester NY 14623
New Bethel CME Church, 270 Scio Street, Rochester NY 14605
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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