Kimberly George
2:48:30
Thank you, Chair Hudson, chair salam, and fellow committee members for the opportunity to testify today.
2:48:35
I'm Kimberly George, the President and CEO of Project guardianship.
2:48:38
Thank you for holding today's hearing on elder abuse, a pressing issue for aging New Yorkers, their families, and our broader communities.
2:48:45
I'm here today to talk about the urgent issues unfolding in our guardianship system, what it means for New Yorkers, especially low income New Yorkers, women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ community.
2:48:58
And why it is so important that the council passed Resolution 561 and for Governor Hochol to heed its call to action.
2:49:05
Article 81 of New York's mental hygiene law mandates courts to appoint guardians only after all less restrictive options have been rolled out.
2:49:13
However, there's no public funding to compensate guardians relying instead on family caregivers and the personal wealth of those in need.
2:49:22
This approach does not reflect the reality of older adults who are increasingly aging alone and with limited resources.
2:49:29
Nonprofits have stepped in to provide guardianship services But without permanent funding, they struggle to meet the demand.
2:49:36
The threat of funding cuts jeopardizes these essential services and the individuals who rely on them.
2:49:42
The lack of investment also created challenges for the courts.
2:49:46
Statewide judges report that up to a third of guardianship cases, they struggle to find available guardians.
2:49:52
With this number rising to half in New York City, delays in appointments can lead vulnerable individuals uncertain and may result in the appointment of unqualified guardians.
2:50:03
New York's older adult population is growing rapidly with 4,600,000 residents aged sixty five and older.
2:50:09
By next year, they represent 25% of people in 33 counties and 30% in 18 counties.
2:50:16
Many older New Yorkers live in poverty, particularly black, African American, and Hispanic communities.
2:50:22
A significant portion will require long term care highlighting the urgent need for effective guardianship.
2:50:28
An annual investment of $15,000,000 in nonprofits would increase capacity to serve 1500 more New Yorkers ensuring access to high quality care.
2:50:37
This funding would also facilitate quicker Guardian appointments leading to Medicaid savings and boosting local economies.
2:50:44
Project guardianship commends the city council for its commitment to the aging population.
2:50:48
It's crucial to pass resolution 561 and for governor Kockel to heed its call to action.
2:50:53
Thank you very much.
