WESTBROOK – The Maine Occupational Therapy Association honored Rep. Elaine Makas, D-Lewiston, with the OT Advocate’s Award at the fall conference on Oct. 12 at the Westbrook campus of the University of New England.

“Rep. Makas supported Maine Occupational Therapy Association members in writing a letter of concern in response to the implementation of new special education regulations,” said Roxie Black, association president. “Additionally, she has proposed a bill to add occupational therapists to the list of possible participants in the Educators for Maine Forgiveness Repayment and Deferment Program.”

The program would allow occupational therapy students to apply for a loan program developed by the Finance Authority of Maine, which has a debt forgiveness aspect if the therapist works in Maine schools or child care facilities. Currently the program is only available to teachers and speech pathologist/therapists.

“I am honored to receive this award from people who do so much for our children and families,” said Makas. “Supporting your work on behalf of children in the state of Maine is the least I can do as a member of the Education Committee and a legislator.”