Although the not-for-profit Genesee-Orleans Homemakers, Inc. recently dissolved, its goal of providing high-quality home health care will continue through a $23,112 gift to the Genesee Community College Foundation, Executive Director Richard Ensman has announced.

The $23,112 gift represents the remaining assets of the organization, which ceased operations two years ago. The funds are being used to endow a new Genesee-Orleans Homemakers Scholarship Fund. Earnings from the endowment will be used to fund scholarships for Genesee and Orleans county students pursuing health care degrees at Genesee Community College and who have an interest in geriatric care.

Genesee-Orleans Homemakers provided health care services, primarily in the home, to numerous residents of the two counties over the years. Most of the agency's clients were elderly.

"Genesee Orleans Homemakers was very much a pioneer in providing home health care to the region," Ensman said. "Although other agencies have now taken over the work of Homemakers, home health care is still very much a growing and changing field, and in need of new pioneers. We believe that our students, who will benefit from this scholarship, will be these new pioneers."

The first scholarships will be awarded for the 2004-2005 years. Students will be able to apply by completing forms available in either the Financial Assistance Office or through the college's health care programs.

The Genesee Community College Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that provides philanthropic and volunteer support to Genesee Community College.