The Alaska Senior Assistance Program (AKSAP) is a new needs-based benefit program available to all Alaskan seniors age 65 or older that meet certain eligibility requirements.

Our first star is a resident of Anchorage. He has worked for our agency for 20 years, in numerous positions and many different offices. Regarded by friends and co-workers as someone you can always count on, upbeat, respectful and courteous. Co-workers have described him as the "heart" of his unit. Accuracy is an important element to this star's work and he is described as someone who is up to the challenge with policy knowledge that is exemplary and a work ethic that is thorough and diligent. He is very family and community oriented and enjoys fundraising. Can you guess who this star is?

Strong Child Care Services continue as department restructures: Mary Lorence named DHSS Childcare Manager

The Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) today announced $5,290,514 in child care grants to communities and organizations throughout Alaska that provide services to children. The awards are administered by the Child Care Assistance Program, which recently moved from the Department of Education and Early Development to the Division of Public Assistance as part of a large DHSS reorganization for efficiency and better customer service.

Elderly Alaskans on very low incomes should find it easy to collect $120 a month through a new program. The aid is intended to ease the pain of Gov. Frank Murkowski's elimination of the immensely popular Longevity Bonus Program.

The ease of applying for the money carries a potential cost. The program won't be fraud-proof, state officials say.

No interview is required. No documentation of income. No visit to the welfare office. The program will operate in part on trust.

I would like to join Governor Murkowski in honoring each of you by designating Public Assistance Workers Appreciation Week, July 13-19, 2003. The important work of case managers, support service staff, supervisors, administrative support personnel, employment specialists and others is not always apparent to the public. However, the people you help achieve self-sufficiency, or those unable to work whom you help with financial assistance, medical assistance or other services, know first-hand of your work. It is an art to be able to give aid, to lend a hand without building dependence, and to respect and preserve the dignity of those whom we serve. For your great success at this vital job, and for your contributions to the people of this State, I offer my sincerest thanks and congratulations.