GOVERNOR LINGLE APPROVES FUNDING FOR STATE VETERANS HOME-HILO PROJECT

For Immediate Release:  August 14, 2003

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has certified to the federal government that the State has $10 million available to secure a federal matching grant for a 95-bed state veterans home long-term care facility, with an adult day care center, on the Hilo Medical Center campus.  This certification was sent to the federal government to meet its August 15, 2003 deadline. 

“With valuable input from Big Island community leaders, veterans groups, and government officials, this much needed facility can now become a reality,” said Governor Lingle.  “According to a recent feasibility study, this home can be one that we all can be proud of, without requiring an ongoing state subsidy, other than through the Medicaid program.  This is important during these challenging fiscal times.”

The State Veterans Home-Hilo will provide nursing home and domiciliary care to eligible veterans.  The facility will be built to allow for possible future expansion.

“Hawai`i is one of only three states that does not have a care home for veterans,“ Big Island Mayor Harry Kim said.  “It is about time that we are providing such facilities for our veterans.  I am delighted that the Governor is supporting the efforts for this important project and is playing an active role in making this a reality.” 

Hilo Medical Center is one of 12 hospitals managed and operated by the Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation (HHSC).  Established in 1996, HHSC is a public benefit corporation of the State of Hawai`i. 

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Contact:
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: 586-7705
 
Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0043