Adult Protective Services (APS) plays a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. APS of the Permian Basin, addresses the diverse needs of elderly and disabled adults who may be facing challenging circumstances.
APS is “one of the few State Agencies that has a non-profit that steps in to help,” according to Bernadette Ostroff, President of the APS Board of Directors. “We fundraise across the community to help with severe cases like hoarding, vermin infestations, mattress replacement (due to bed bugs or soiling), medical equipment, finance exploitation and more,” she told Midland Times.
APS collaborates with various community partners, including mental health professionals, public health authorities, law enforcement, individual citizens and the aging network to help identify vulnerable adults in the community. APS investigates cases and offers services such as housing, food, transportation, legal assistance, and medical care, according to Marci Leffler, Community Engagement Specialist at Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
“We see frequent cases of financial exploitation or scams against the elderly or disabled and APS steps in to help where we can,” Leffler said.
APS will hold its second annual Festival of Trees fundraising event at Bush Convention Center November 8-9, and is seeking event sponsors. The event will include decorated tree raffles and silent auctions. APS is seeking donations for the event. If interested in becoming a sponsor, please call 432-260-5698 or email info@permianapsboard.org.
APS offers services for individuals 65 years or older and individuals 18 or older who have disabilities. If abuse or neglect is suspected, individuals can contact APS online or by calling the hotline at 1-800-252-5400.
Visit Adult Protective Services website at https://www.dfps.texas.gov/adult_protection/.
