Press Release A 2-19-09

For immediate release

TO: News Desk, Assignment Editor

FR: Ron Hardin, Communications Manager

SNAP

2116 E. First Avenue, Spokane WA 99202

509-456-7111 ext.242; hardin@snapwa.org

Cell phone 993-7143

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Ombudsman Program Needs Volunteers in Deer Park

The Deer Park area currently has 16 adult family homes with a combined total of 80 residents. At this time, there are no trained Long Term Care Ombudsmen to routinely visit these facilities.

Those who volunteer as an Ombudsman provide a valuable service. They act as advocates for those who reside in assisted-living facilities. An Ombudsman protects and promotes the rights of residents. Plus, they are a welcome visitor to those who often receive very few guests.

The program currently has about 40 trained volunteers covering a five county area. But, the Deer Park area doesn’t have any trained volunteer Long Term Care Ombudsmen.

“We are very concerned that there’s a void in the Deer Park area,” according to Linda Petrie who oversees the Ombudsman Program in this region. “The quality of life will improve for residents of these facilities when a local Ombudsman is available to visit on a regular basis.”

Those interested in becoming an Ombudsman can attend a two-day training session held on April 22-23 or April 28-29 in Spokane. The 30-hour training program will lead to a certification as a Long Term Care Ombudsman.

There is no cost for this training and lunch will be provided.

Following certification, an Ombudsman can expect to spend about four hours per week visiting Long Term Care facilities in their area. Continuing education on issues regarding the program is provided at monthly meetings.

Those interested in learning more about the Ombudsman program can call 1-800-660-7133 (toll free) or 1-509-456-7133.

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About SNAP: SNAP connects and provides access to resources which creates opportunities, with dignity, for low income people.