August 31, 2016

Dear Dear MMS Conference,

I am reaching out to you with a topic that has become an important social justice and social ministry issue. For the past two years, I have represented St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System on the Executive Committee of the Seniors Count Initiative.Along with the agencies listed, many of whom are competitors, we joined together around a common cause to bring awareness to the needs of the elderly andcreate a local solution to the gaps between needs and resources available. I am reaching out to you to inform you about the creation of a Senior Service Fund, Proposition S, which will be on the ballot in the upcoming November 8thelection.

As the region’s population is rapidly aging, large numbers of older adults and their caregivers are seeking ways to “age in place” with dignity. The demand for resources to support independent living is growing every year, while at the same time, federal and state funds to support these services are decreasing.

Proposition S focuses on the very serious need to increase local funding for senior services in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County. Although 52 Missouri counties have passed a Senior ServiceFund, the tax has never been proposed in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. A Senior Service Fundin these three jurisdictions would annually generate approximately $20 million for vital services.Revenue raised in each county remains in that county.

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016, voters will have the opportunity to demonstrate their support to help provide for the growing needs of seniors in our region. Voters in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County will be asked to approve Proposition S, a senior services property tax ($.05 per $100 assessed valuation).We want you to be knowledgeable as your faith and advocacy directly improves lives of older adults. Our faith is the pillar of our organization, and with your help, we will have the opportunity to extend services to those in need for years to come.

I ask that you inform your congregation of this effort. We do have speakers available who could come to any gathering to discuss this effort and its benefit to seniors in our community by contacting Jamie Opsal at or call her at 314-412-1914.

Seniors are an important part of our lives and community and we want to help them to meet their needs.

Sincerely,

Mary Alice Ryan, President/CEO

St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System