EDITOR’S NOTE: The LaPorte County Council on Aging, which provides vital transportation and other services to local seniors and disabled individuals, appeared doomed to closure just a few months ago when PAF Inc., its former overseer, said the LCCOA would be shut down because of financial issues. But after a grassroots effort to seek help, communicate with other agencies and secure emergency funding from the LaPorte County Council, the LCCOA has new life. Here is a letter to the community issued April 14, 2014, by LCCOA Director Dawn Biela:
“Dear Friends of the LaPorte County Council on Aging,
“On Monday, April 7, 2014, the LaPorte County Council voted unanimously to provide funding for Michiana Resources (MRI) to assume the Council on Aging services formerly operated under Parents and Friends (PAF) Inc.
“Effective today (April 14, 2014), the transportation and escort services operated under PAF transitioned to the management of Michiana Resources. MRI will temporarily utilize the drivers’ dispatch room and parking areas at PAF to operate these services. I am very pleased to report that all transportation staff who applied transitioned to MRI with the services, allowing for the continuity of care desired by all parties.
“The Guardianship program will be operated under PAF until the transfer of guardians is legally complete.
“To further assure a smooth transition, the Council on Aging’s phone numbers and mailing address follow the program as well. Please note, email addresses will change. Local: 219-326-7889. Toll-free: 800-308-9566. Mailing address: PO Box 443, LaPorte, IN 46352-0443.
“I cannot possibly thank the myriad of people who made this all possible. If I can ever be of help to you, please do not hesitate to call on me.
“Most sincerely, Dawn M. Biela (dawnbiela@gmail.com)”