CHICAGO, January 12, 2022 – the new year is already off to a busy start at MAHA, thanks to the recent notice of approval for a grant from the American Association of Retired People (AARP) to expand our Navigator services to help elder residents access even more critical support systems.

Research shows that chronic stress, stemming from economic hardships, is associated with the more rapid onset or progression of chronic illnesses. Hence, the anxiety associated with food insecurity may cause increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes (Carlson & Keith-Jennings, 2018). Having health coverage mitigates unsafe practices like not taking medicine as prescribed due to cost concerns. Low-income seniors reap the additional important benefits of being able to live independently in their communities and avoid hospitalization, thanks to health coverage (Carlson & Keith-Jennings, 2018)

Funding from the AARP grant will increase our capacity by providing assistance to seniors with applications for health insurance, food stamps, and utility assistance.

This funding will also allow MAHA to expand its staff by hiring another Navigator to join our expanding team! There are also positions available for licensed mental health counselors, operations, and others. Please visit the Employment Opportunities page on our website for more information or call us at 312-225-8659

For more information, please contact:

• Allison Precht, Director of Programs for MAHA
  [email protected]; 312-225-2287
  
  
• Dr Jing Zhang, Director of Community Health for MAHA
  [email protected]; 312-225-8659