Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula has appointed Ms Abigail Marie Poyer as the Commissioner of the Home and Community Based Services Commission. The Commission is to lay the foundation for a territory-wide system that will, for the first time, enable financial support for the families and caregivers of the elderly and individuals with disabilities in the home and community. The Commission was established by executive order in December of last year, and is part of the Governor’s Office.
The Governor said Commissioner Poyer will serve as a liaison between the Office of the Governor and the commission reporting directly to him or his representative. She shall oversee operations ensuring timely deliverables, representing the Home and Community Based Services Commission publicly, coordinating with all stakeholders, supervising staff and recommending policy improvements and budget management.
Commissioner Poyer will also lead strategic planning, grant funding and application, building partnerships with federal and territorial programs and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws.
Abigail Marie Poyer
Governor Pulaalii has also appointed 20 members to the commission. Ten are members of the community and government and non profit organizations and 10 are ex-officio members representing government agencies.
Members and Expiration of Term
Salaia Tuileta-Hope House, Dec 1, 2028
Ray Tulafono-Health IT Expert, Dec 1, 2028
Alofaeleuma Faualo-Community at Large, Jan 1, 2028
Tafaimamao Tupuola-Pacific Center in Humanity, Dec 1, 2028
Dr Lois Phillips Pula-Dementia Friendly American Samoa, Jan 1, 2028
Beauty Ale-Community at Large, June 1, 2028
Fainuulelei Alailima-Utu-American Samoa Legal Aid, June 1, 2028
Losalia Sialega-Community at Large, Dec 1, 2028
Dr Evelyn Fa’aiuaso-Community at Large, Dec 1, 2028
Norma Smith-Developmental Disability Planning Council, Jan 1, 2028
Ex-Officio Members
Bethany Malae Toelupe-Office of the Governor, Dec 1, 2028
Luise Kuaea-Medicaid State Agency, June 1, 2028
Scott Anesi-LBJ Tropical Medical Center, June 1, 2028
Paopao Kuresa F. Paopao-Territorial Administration on Aging, Jan 1, 2028
Paulia Pelenato-Department of Human and Social Services, June 1, 2028
Josephine Fuga-Department of Health, June 1, 2028
Thor Tinitali-Department of Education, June 1, 2028
Ruth Matagi-Development Bank of American Samoa, Jan 1, 2028
Magdeline Lina Petaia-Department of Commerce, Jan 1, 2028
Sandra Lei Ho Ching-ASCC Nursing Program, Dec 1, 2028
