Board members and staff told the meeting that several funding lines that support senior services and SHINE-related work are uncertain or reduced, and that a recent state-level clawback has already pulled funds from contracted programs.

Tim (staff member) said the SHINE pass-through grant was “much lower than it has been,” and an earmark that the center typically receives has not yet been released. He warned that delays or reductions in these grants would “substantially impact” the center’s ability to retain professional staff who train and oversee volunteers.

Participants also said the state Department of Public Health had clawed back some previously committed ARPA funds, and Tim cited a figure of about $65 million taken from contracts administered by the state (impacting a range of local public-health and substance-use prevention programs). The board expressed concern that similar unannounced reductions could affect the center’s formula grant and other line items.

Transportation: Social-services staff reported a program change: a taxi/ride program and a “go‑grandparent rent” (as referenced) are ending around late November or early December; staff said they are assembling a plan and asking riders for patience while the team seeks replacement grants. SpringWell meal-delivery times were revised to 8:30–10 a.m., and staff said that scheduling conflicts with an existing Thursday shopping trip had been mitigated.

Why it matters: Reduced or delayed state and federal grant funding would directly affect staffing levels and the center’s ability to provide services such as volunteer training, medical rides and meal delivery.

Ending: Staff said they will continue to apply for grants, explore phased staffing and equipment strategies, and keep the board updated on confirmations for SHINE and formula grants.