Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services is pledging nearly one million dollars in grants to support the elderly.

Specifically, the state dollars are going to programs by 12 organizations that address elder abuse and increase reporting of the crime.

Their grant process is designed to establish local programs and tools to prevent, detect, and address abusive behavior — including neglect and exploitation of vulnerable older adults.

The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan was one of the organizations that will share in the $965,000 in grant money.