Issue Brief
On May 5, 2025, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announced the release of more than $1 billion in grant funding for programs authorized under the Older Americans Act (OAA).
These grants fund a range of essential services—including home-delivered meals, caregiver support, transportation, and independent living services and programs—for older adults and people with disabilities.
Although Congress had approved this funding months ago, its distribution was delayed, leaving vital services in limbo.
The release follows months of advocacy by the aging and disability communities, Members of Congress, and other stakeholders, who urged timely distribution to prevent disruptions in services that millions rely on to remain in their homes and communities.
Context and Implications
This development takes place within a broader policy environment in which the future of the Administration for Community Living (ACL)—the only federal agency charged with advancing community living, independence, health, and well-being for people with disabilities and older adults—is undergoing a proposed sweeping reorganization.
Several Key Issues in the Reorganization of the ACL are Emerging in Parallel:
- Agency Restructuring and Staffing Changes: ACL is currently experiencing a significant internal reorganization, including a 40% reduction in staff. These changes raise serious concerns about [...]