News

Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Awards Grant to

Meals on Wheels Program

December 2009, Tallahassee, Florida  - Elder Care Services was awarded at grant from the Charles A. Frueauff Foundation, Inc. to support the Meals on Wheels program.  For over 38 years, Elder Care Services has successfully provided nutrition services for seniors, joining over 25,000 similar providers of nutrition services for the elderly nationwide.

Meals on Wheels fills the most basic need for food, while providing socialization to isolated seniors and a daily safety check.  The main objective is to connect seniors who are the most economically and socially needy with the services they need with as little delay as possible.  For frail, homebound elders, these meals are the lifeline that allows them to remain in their homes rather than going to a nursing home.

The need always far exceeds government funding.  Therefore, Elder Care has to rely on community support from United Way, City of Tallahassee, Leon County and donations from businesses, foundations, civic groups and individuals to continue to serve all seniors who request assistance. 

“With almost endless waiting lists for state and federally funded programs, seniors who want to stay in their homes or with their families deserve an advocate through these challenging times,” says Sharon Davidson, Director of Development for Elder Care.  “Thanks to the support from the Charles A. Frueauff Foundation, Inc., Elder Care will be there for them.” 

Elder Elves Reach Out To Seniors

January 8, 2010 (Tallahassee, FL) - As the holidays come to a close, Elder Care Services reflects on the generosity of those who participated in the annual “Elder Elf” program.  Through this program, Elder Care was able to provide gifts and food for 185 clients and their families.  These families included frail folks who live alone, extended families who are caring for a frail elderly relative, and grandparents who are primary caregivers for their grandchildren.  There were also special treats for pets that are beloved companions for some of our clients.

Businesses, organizations and individuals “adopted” seniors who were indentified by Elder Care Services case managers.  In most cases, these seniors would not receive any gifts or attention during the holidays if it were not for “Elder Elf”.  For some, the kindness in the form of gifts and food made this their best Christmas ever.  For others, it was a token of earlier times when they were the gift givers.  For all, it was a reminder that someone cares and wants them to feel special.

The gifts were not limited to individuals and families.  Employees at American Guaranty Fund Group (AGFG) donated a Wii game system for seniors at the Elder Day Stay facility.  The seniors were intrigued by the virtual game and many dusted off their bowling skills and immediately began competing with one another.

In some cases, all seniors asked for were groceries to feed them and their families.  Clare Bridge Senior Living held a food drive during December.  Items not distributed during the month are being distributed through the ECS food pantry. 

From the married senior couple who received a much needed microwave to the 92-year old retired homemaker who eagerly scratched her lottery tickets, this was a joyful time for someone in need and gave them an opportunity to reminisce about Christmases past.