Wesley Family Services

The PA MEDI program helps individuals understand their Medicare and other health insurance benefits and assists them in making informed decisions about their health care options. PA MEDI counselors work individually and confidentially with individuals to determine their health care needs and preferences, compare health insurance options, plan ahead for long-term living, and obtain Medicare and supplemental coverage that fits their lifestyle and their budget.Wesley Family Services can help with the following programs (and the way in which Medicare interacts with each): Medicaid Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities Medicare Savings Program Home and Community Based Services Extra Help PACE Pennsylvania Patient Assistance Program PA MEDI is a Pennsylvania state program and in Allegheny County, the program is operated by Wesley Family Services in partnership with the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. PA MEDI assists clients over the phone, via email, and in person. Contact us today with your Medicare questions or to schedule a one-on-one counseling session. To receive PA Medi program information and support, please contact Wesley Family Services at 412-661-1438 (phone) or [email protected] (email).   Editors Note: Article Submitted by Wesley Family Services. 

Older individuals are active more than ever before. It has been proven that they like to give back to their communities through volunteerism. To connect with others and be part of something bigger has been reported to give individuals fewer feelings of isolation. 88% of volunteers experience decreased anxiety, depression, and loneliness. While 84% report stable or improved health after one year of service.If you enjoy encouraging children to be their best self, and you are 55 or better and on a limited income, the Foster Grandparent Program could be what you are looking for.Giving back by serving children and helping those in need gives you purpose and helps teach them empathy and compassion. Children need positive, caring individuals to influence them with social, emotional, educational, self-help and learning skills. Its the little things that stand out to a child. Something as simple as being there on a consistent basis, listening, and providing extra one-on-one support can make an impact on a childs life. These small acts help build childrens confidence, self-esteem and life skills while building them up for success.There arent any educational requirements, just a passion to help children.  A Foster Grandparent volunteer provides 15 or more hours to support non-profit schools, Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms, childcare and development centers and after-school programs. Through service, volunteers can earn a non-taxable, non-reportable stipend that does not affect current benefits or services one may already have or have in the future, there is also travel reimbursement, supplemental accidental and liability insurance, professional development and recognition.Grandma Marlene says, Its a wonderful program, it gives you the opportunity to be compassionate and watch out for the well-being of children. Not to mention it keeps you active.  Why dont you bring out the best in America by making giving back your second act?Editors Note:  This article was submitted by Rebecca Maletto-Cornell, Foster Grandparent Program Director with Wesley Family Services and may be reached at 412-660-6841, by email at [email protected] or online at fostergrandparents.wfspa.org.