JABA Receives Grant to Continue DTV Assistance

June 16, 2009

Press Contact:
Elyse Thierry
(434) 817-5236
ethierry@jabacares.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JABA RECEIVES GRANT TO CONTINUE DTV ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Area seniors have until July 17 for free help with DTV transition

Charlottesville, VA (June 3, 2009) —- Area residents aged 60 and over will continue to receive free assistance with the digital TV (DTV) transition through July 17, 2009 thanks to a recent grant awarded to JABA. The $14,913 grant is an extension of earlier funding, which allowed the agency to aid more than 131 seniors in Central Virginia to obtain, install and troubleshoot DTV converter boxes.
Both JABA’s original program, which ended March 31, and the initiative’s extension have been made possible, in part, by a grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), U.S. Department of Commerce. The grants came to JABA as part of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging’s (n4a) Digital TV: Keeping Seniors Connected Campaign
“This funding allows JABA to keep people connected, not only to their favorite TV shows, but to their community, as well,“ says Gordon Walker, CEO, JABA. “As with so many of the comprehensive services JABA provides, what would be minor for most of us—preparing a balanced meal, understanding an insurance form, even having a regular place to meet with friends—may be beyond the reach of these vulnerable people.“

While most in the region successfully made the switch to digital TV on February 17 certain viewers have encountered problems. This has been particularly true for low-income and homebound seniors who depend on rabbit ears or rooftop antennae for reception.

“For the frail, disabled or homebound, dealing with the new technology can be a significant barrier,“ says Walker. “Getting to the store is close to impossible for some. Others have installed converter boxes, but need stronger antennae and help in realigning their old equipment. We have encountered individuals who have simply given up on TV all together. Losing that outside link leaves them particularly at risk as we enter Hurricane Season.“

The grant covers educating seniors about the conversion process, help with applying for converter box coupons and assistance with shopping for, installing and troubleshooting a converter box. The grant does not allow JABA to purchase converter boxes for clients. Donations of money to help purchase converter boxes for the most at-risk, as well as unused, unexpired DTV converter box coupons are greatly appreciated.
Because the current program ends July 17 area seniors who are having difficulties with their converter boxes, or who have yet to purchase boxes or apply for coupons, are urged to contact JABA immediately at 434-817-5222.
For the latest on the Digital TV Conversion see www.dtv.gov.

For information on JABA and answers to other aging related questions, contact JABA at (434) 817-5222 or visit the Web site www.jabacares.org.

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JABA (the Jefferson Area Board for Aging) serves the city of Charlottesville, and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson. JABA cares about all aspects of senior and intergenerational welfare.  The nonprofit organization works to promote, establish and preserve sustainable communities for healthy aging that benefit individuals and families of all ages.

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6/3/09

Mollie Walker, JABA’s DTV Coordinator, displays some of the 70 coupons and 59 digital TV converter boxes the agency has helped seniors obtain, distribute or install.