Foster Grandparents Program of Charles City Could Face Federal Funding Cut

Foster Grandparents of Charles City, which serves Floyd, Chickasaw, Mitchell and Cerro Gordo counties, is facing a possible funding cut.

During Monday (11.06) night’s City Council meeting, Mayor Dean Andrews said federal funding to the parent organization, AmericaCorp Seniors, could be reduced by as much as 40% nationwide. Andrews asked the Council to support efforts to remind officials of the program’s importance.

Foster Grandparents Program Director Jennifer Lantz told the Council they’re also mounting a letter writing campaign. 

While participation is on a volunteer basis, each Foster Grandparent is paid $4 an hour and receives a free meal when they work.

The Foster Grandparents Program marked its 50th year in north Iowa last year.