The Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter has been named a 2020 grant recipient by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan through the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds.
The $20,000 grant is from the Legacy Fund for Caregivers and will be used to support the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline and dementia caregivers facing even greater challenges amid COVID-19.
“We are grateful to the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation for supporting the Alzheimer’s Association during such a difficult time,” said Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter President and CEO Jennifer Lepard. “This grant will help us tremendously in serving Michiganders as they navigate their dementia journey.”
According to Program Services Director Jean Barnas, there’s been an increase in calls related to behavioral concerns, communication tips and strategies, and caregiver stress.
“Some of the increased traffic has definitely been related to COVID-19,” said Barnas. “That makes sense as more caregivers are at home with fewer breaks and persons living with dementia are not able to attend as many community programs outside of the home.”
Southgate, Mich., resident Jill Kirks has used the Helpline often and has benefitted from the support service.
"Talking to local Helpline representatives is so helpful,” Kirks said. “They've connected me with support groups, Community Connect programs and other available resources. I appreciate representatives being available 24/7 to help navigate this devastating disease. I've provided the Helpline phone number to so many people, I know it by heart."
The Alzheimer’s Association Helpline can be reached at 800.272.3900 or at
helplinegmc@alz.org.
The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan is a full-service philanthropic organization leading the way to positive change in our region. As a permanent community endowment built by gifts from thousands of individuals and organizations, the Foundation supports a wide variety of activities benefiting education, arts and culture, health, human services, community development and civic affairs in the seven counties of southeast Michigan. The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan honor Mr. Wilson’s charitable legacy by supporting efforts across the region in caregiving, design & access, and youth sports, as well as for community assets in Mr. Wilson’s home community of Grosse Pointe. For more information, please visit www.cfsem.org.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.