Project Description: In 2004 the Community Health Foundation provided funding to the Erie County Caregiver Coalition and the University at Buffalo, School of Public Health and Health Professions to bring Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC) to Western New York.  Master trainers were trained in the program.

In May 2006, the Board approved expansion of PTC to other counties in Western and Central New York.  As of December 2007 the following counties are participating in this program:

• Allegany
• Cattaraugus
• Erie
• Niagara         
• Onondaga County
• Oswego
• Tompkins

Powerful Tools for Caregivers: Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC) is a program that provides tools and support for caregivers.  PTC was developed by Legacy Health System in Portland, Oregon. Class leaders receive training and materials and are licensed by Mather Lifeways to conduct PTC classes for caregivers using the PTC materials. 

Each county receives a 2½ day class leader training that is arranged for and provided by the Erie County Department of Senior Services master trainers. The support for each county covers training of up to six class leaders plus facility meeting costs.  To support sustainability of the program, replacement trainers will be able to participate in a nearby training or a training program in Erie County in year two.

The county lead agency receives tool kits, at a cost of $600 each, for use by the Class Leaders to support the training.

Interest to Participate: While this project is no longer an active RFP the foundation is interested in continued expansion of this valuable program. If you are interest in submitting an application for your county to participate in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, please contact the foundation office at info@chfwcny.org.