Caregiver group lauds Collins for leadership

6 years ago

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Caregiver Action Network honored U.S. Senator Susan Collins on Dec. 8 with the Caregiving Leader in Congress Award for her long-time leadership on caregiver advancements. 

John Schall, CEO of Caregiver Action Network, presented her with the award in her Washington, D.C., office.

“Working to improve support and respite for the 90 million Americans who care for a loved one is an issue that is near and dear to my heart,” Collins said. “I am deeply honored to receive this award and want to express my thanks to the Caregiver Action Network and its members, who have helped lead the way in representing the concerns of family caregivers.

She added, “Family caregivers play an essential role in our communities by dedicating time and attention as well as making countless personal and financial sacrifices to care for their loved ones.”

“Thank you so much for the RAISE Act and everything you do for aging,” said John Schall, CEO of Caregiver Action Network.  “You are really our hero for family caregivers.  We were just so honored to be able to give you the Caregiving Leader in Congress Award.”

In September, the Senate passed the RAISE Family Caregivers Act, legislation introduced by Senator Collins that would direct the Department of Health and Human Services to develop and sustain a coordinated strategy to recognize and support family caregivers. This bipartisan bill has been endorsed by more than 60 aging and disabilities organizations, including the AARP, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, the Michael J. Foxx Foundation, and the Arc.