ETCOG Invites Tornado Victims to Apply for Housing Assistance Through August 6
Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • July 9, 2021
The East Texas Council of Governments is seeking applications from residents affected by the March 2021 tornadoes in Panola and Rusk Counties to offer assistance through its HOME Disaster Relief Program. Through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), ETCOG assists qualified individuals impacted by storms and other disasters in East Texas.
Apply Here
“We were saddened to learn of the damage and loss of homes as a result of the recent tornadoes in East Texas,” said ETCOG’s Director of Aging and Housing Programs, Bettye Mitchell.” The East Texas Council of Government's HOME Program and the Area Agency on Aging can possibly be of assistance. Our hearts are with you during these difficult times.”
The HOME Disaster Relief Program allows ETCOG to support the rebuilding or repairing of eligible storm victim's homes in the affected area. Average costs to rebuild single-family homes are from $100,000 to $110,000, depending on the size of the family. Interested applicants will be required to meet the HOME Disaster Relief Program standards set forth by the TDHCA. Applicants must also meet federal rules and standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In addition, eligible clients must have experienced property damage from the tornado, have a clear title on their home with no liens, and not have received FEMA assistance.
The deadline to submit applications to the ETCOG office is Friday, August 6 by 5:00 p.m.
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adrian Cornejo as the new Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA). In this role, Cornejo will lead efforts to develop and coordinate services that support the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults across ETCOG’s fourteen-county region. Cornejo brings a strong background in healthcare leadership and military service. He most recently worked as an Account Manager for Humana’s Institutional Special Needs Plan program, where he partnered with skilled nursing facilities to improve care coordination, leading to a 20% reduction in hospital readmissions. Earlier in his career, Cornejo served in the United States Navy for nearly two decades, rising to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer and managing budgets exceeding $550 million while leading more than 350 Sailors and Marines. “Adrian’s leadership experience in both healthcare and the military has equipped him with the skills and dedication needed to serve East Texas seniors,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “His background in building partnerships and his deep commitment to public service make him a tremendous asset to our team.” Cornejo shared his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “It is an honor to join ETCOG and to serve the seniors of East Texas. My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place at the Area Agency on Aging and continue to expand access to services that help older adults and their families live with dignity and independence.” The AAA is administered through ETCOG and is part of a nationwide network created through the Older Americans Act of 1965. It provides a wide range of services, including information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education, senior nutrition programs, housing repair, caregiver support, and Ombudsman advocacy for individuals in long-term care facilities. These programs are designed to help older residents remain active and independent in their homes and communities for as long as possible.
Medicare Open Enrollment is right around the corner, and with so many plans and choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our certified benefits counselors are here to help—whether you prefer to sit down one-on-one or schedule an educational session for your group or organization. They provide clear, unbiased information about Medicare so you can make informed decisions that fit your needs. These services are free and available to individuals, families, churches, senior centers, civic clubs, and other local groups. If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare coverage, upcoming changes, or available plans, now is the time to reach out. To schedule an appointment or request a group presentation, contact us at 1-800-442-8845 or www.easttexasaaa.org/request-speaker .
