NAPLES SENIOR CENTER AWARDED WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE GRANT

NAPLES SENIOR CENTER AWARDED WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE GRANT TO SUPPORT JUST CHECKING AND CASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS

Naples Senior Center, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services for seniors, has been awarded a $15,000 grant from The Women’s Giving Circle of Southwest Florida. These funds will be used to support the growing Just Checking and Case Management programs for local seniors.

The Naples Senior Center is the only human services agency of its kind, providing “one-stop shop” services addressing the emotional and social needs of seniors in Collier and southern Lee counties. Since opening its doors in January 2014, the organization has seen a surge in the depth and scope of need for comprehensive senior services in this region.

The center’s Just Checking program is entering its second year and acts as a lifeline to homebound seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, 120 seniors are receiving calls each week with at least nine receiving calls daily. More than 15 volunteers assist in making these calls and the need for these services is projected to continue to increase.

The Case Management program connects frail seniors with professional geriatric case managers who offer community resources that enable them to age in place safely, and with dignity. Due to seniors being isolated in their homes as a result of the global health crisis, Naples Senior Center has seen an increase in requests for these critical services.

“We are grateful to The Women’s Giving Circle for their continued support of seniors in our community,” said Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/CEO of Naples Senior Center. “Our clients are facing a higher level of critical needs, with many requiring much more intensive services. This additional funding will help us fill the void for these services.”

The Women’s Giving Circle of Southwest Florida is a fund of the Community Foundation of Collier County. The organization’s mission is to improve the quality of the lives of disadvantaged women and families in Collier and Lee counties. Since its founding in 2012, The Women’s Giving Circle has donated over $460,000 to charities.

The Naples Senior Center enriches the lives of those 60 years of age and older by providing comprehensive programs and social services that support and strengthen individuals and their families, often at times of vulnerability and crisis. Since the COVID-19 outbreak in mid-March, the center has been meeting seniors needs virtually.

All programs and services are provided by licensed and credentialed professionals. These include Structured Dementia Respite Support; Geriatric Case Management and Senior Outreach Programs; and Emotional Support Services as well as a “choice” Food Pantry.

An average of 40 different social, educational and wellness programs also are offered each week thanks to a dedicated corps of more than 200 trained and vetted volunteers. Among the programs are a weekly “Lunch and More;” classes in art, music and film; brain fitness and educational seminars; courses in computer science; physical well-being; and interest groups. The center serves everyone regardless of backgrounds and beliefs.

For additional information on the Naples Senior Center and its comprehensive programs and social services for area seniors and their families, visit www.NaplesSeniorCenter.org.

Photo on left represents what the new Center will look like upon completion