The State of Vermont is distributing $5 million in a second round of federal pandemic funds to adult day centers to provide financial stability after an extended shut down due to COVID-19.

The funds were allocated by the Legislature this year.

Vermont’s adult day centers provide essential daytime services, such as personal care, nursing assessment, family respite and therapeutic activities, to people with medical conditions. Because the patrons of these centers are often much more vulnerable to COVID-19, the sector was closed for an extended period during the pandemic.

“We know the restrictions and closures that were necessary during the height of the pandemic have had a significant impact on all organizations, but especially those who care for older Vermonters,” said Governor Phil Scott. “That’s why we have worked with federal and state partners to use relief dollars to help keep these businesses, non-profits and healthcare providers going as we continue moving forward in our recovery.”

Prior to this round of funding, the State granted more than $7.3 million in federal COVID Relief Funds to these centers, providing critical financial stability through June 2021.

In June 2021, as Vermont’s successful vaccination efforts rolled out, the adult day centers began to reopen in-person services following the Vermont Forward Plan and COVID infection control guidance. However, as centers reopened, most did so at significantly reduced census due to the pandemic and shortage of workers, requiring continued financial support to maintain operations and critical infrastructure.

Act 74 recognized this need and appropriated this funding to support operating costs, program infrastructure and COVID-19 related expenses throughout State Fiscal Year 2022.