LYNN — The Disability Commission gathered Tuesday evening and approved three sponsorship requests that would further benefit the people of Lynn.
Public Health Director Lisa Tobin told commissioners that the Council on Aging initiated the pilot after hearing concerns from seniors who struggled with lining up and carrying meals.
“Some of that is due to mobility issues for different people who are down there,” Tobin said.
The Council on Aging partnered with Triangle Disability Services to provide group-supported employment for individuals with cognitive disabilities, allowing participants to assist with table-side meal service. The pilot is currently in its third week and serves an average of 90 seniors per day.
Tobin requested that the Disability Commission help fund a portion of the $9,660 pilot, noting that it is currently paid for through state formula grant money typically used for senior programming.
The Commission ultimately approved the one-time contribution of $9,660, and during the March meeting, Tobin will be present for a reevaluation on the progress of the Pilot Program.
Following Tobin, Nick Alonzo of the Public Health Department along with Health Access Officer Norris Guscott requested a total of $75,000 to fund a city-wide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Self Assessment.
The purpose of the assessment is to make sure all city-owned facilities and spaces — like buildings, parking lots, parks, and even websites — are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and up to current accessibility standards.
“Once we put it out to bid and get actual bids from contractors, hopefully that number will be less.” Alonzo stated.
The Commission put it to a vote and approved the request of $75,000.
“We are a progressive bunch.. So if we could be part of progress in moving the city forward and even if it steps a view tiny, I think that’s foundational,” Commission Clerk Patricia Capano stated.
The meeting concluded with Commissioner Louisemaine Dominique requesting $2,975 to support the Inclusive, Sensory & Recreation Program. The program, which will take place every Saturday and serve 10–12 children each week, will provide opportunities for participants to build social skills while engaging in a variety of inclusive and stimulating activities alongside their peers.
The Disability Commission approved the one-time request of the $2,975 and also requested that Dominique update the Commission in one month for a possible renewal.
