USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner was in Bernalillo, New Mexico earlier today to present a certificate of obligation to the New Mexico Direct Caregivers Coalition. The funding will help the organization provide more education and training to those taking care of the elderly and those with disabilities.
During the ceremony, Brunner said, "This funding is addressing a critical need in New Mexico—the availability of high-quality of care for the elderly. Brunner added, “ We hope that this funding helps expanding the quantity and quality of care available in Sandoval and Lea county and throughout New Mexico.
The New Mexico Direct Caregivers Coalition received a $153,990 Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant (SDGG) from USDA Rural Development. The funding will be used to provide better training, education and opportunities to caregivers in the rural areas of Sandoval County and Lea County. The goal of the coalition is to help individuals and families access better care of the elderly and those with disabilities.
The New Mexico Direct Caregivers Coalition is the first caregiver cooperative business in the state to provide caregiver professional development skills through education and other training. The coalition also created a place where a caregiver can network with others so they can exchange ideas on caregiving. The coalition is also credited to giving a voice for caregivers in New Mexico about important issues from professional development to health benefits.