Rep. Russo announces more than $14 million in funding for statewide programs

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) announced that the Ohio State Controlling Board approved $14,100,000 in grants aimed at programs supporting families affected by substance abuse as well as county job and family service agencies for Adult Protective Services.

“We can and must do more to better protect our communities’ most vulnerable populations,” said Rep. Russo. “The investment of these dollars in families and elder care services will allow Ohioans from all walks of life to lead safer, healthier lives.”

This request will allocate $8,100,000 to Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) county agencies to provide Adult Protective Services (APS) in the community. The funds will be utilized to enhance and expand the ability of APS to investigate allegations of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

The historic investment will also provide $6,000,000 in federal funds and additional federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars to child welfare agencies to support their efforts implementing, developing, or enhancing programs to support families impacted by substance abuse and involved with the child welfare system.

Other approved items include:

· $170,000 to create an adult literacy tutoring program to young adults in Ohio with developmental disabilities.

· $750,000 to build housing and create supportive services to youth transitioning out of foster care who would otherwise be at risk of homelessness.

· $3,000,000 for the construction of a research vessel to be used by the Division of Wildlife to study Lake Erie, one of our state’s greatest environmental and economic assets.