(a)    In this section, “aging–in–place program” means a program or service that enables an individual to live in the individual’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.

(b)    The Department may make grants to nonprofit organizations and area agencies on aging to expand and establish aging–in–place programs for seniors.

(c)    Any nonprofit organization or area agency on aging may apply to the Department for a State grant to be applied toward the cost of expanding or establishing an aging–in–place program that provides to seniors:

(1)    assistance with the costs of in–home personal care services for activities of daily living, including bathing, personal hygiene and grooming, dressing, toileting, functional mobility, food preparation, laundry, and house cleaning;

(2)    psychological, economic, or functional assistance to enable successful health management, access to medical care, or compliance with treatment recommendations;

(3)    awareness of and access to resources, services, and benefits;

(4)    support services and care coordination;

(5)    affordable transportation; or

(6)    assistance making in–home modifications or repairs to improve safety, mobility, and accessibility.

(d)    To be eligible for a State grant to expand an existing aging–in–place program under this section, a nonprofit organization or area agency on aging shall demonstrate an equal match for funds requested.

(e)    The Department shall publicize the availability of grant opportunities under the aging–in–place program to eligible organizations at least 6 weeks before grant applications are due.

(f)    The amount of the State grant for an aging–in–place program shall be determined after consideration of:

(1)    all eligible applicants;

(2)    the total amount of State funds available for grants; and

(3)    the priorities of area need as may be established by the Department in consultation with area agencies on aging and in alignment with area plans on aging.

(g)    Funding for the State grants under this section shall be as provided by the Governor in the annual State budget.

(h)    The Department shall notify an area agency on aging within 2 weeks after a grant award to a nonprofit located within the jurisdiction of the area agency on aging.

(i)    The Department may adopt regulations for receiving and considering applications and for disbursing funds to applicants.