Nearly everyone experienced the feelings of isolation and loneliness during the global pandemic. Unfortunately, these feelings are all too common for the aging adults in our community. JFCS of the Suncoast is committed to helping aging adults stay connected and engaged with their peers and community through our programs and services.
When the pandemic hit, JFCS adapted our programming to continue serving the vulnerable older adults in our community. We worked tirelessly to modify our services in a safe and meaningful way to ensure aging adults remained connected to each other even while they were isolated at home.
JFCS relies on the generosity of the community to support its aging programs including Senior Outreach Services, Caregiver Support Groups, counseling for individuals experiencing social isolation and loneliness, and Bereavement Support. These programs help older adults age with dignity and on their own terms. We are kindly asking for support during the Give65 Event to continue serving our aging clients and eventually transition back to how we operated before the pandemic.
From July 13 to 16, JFCS is participating in the sixth-annual Give65 Event, a 65-hour online giving event exclusively for charitable organizations serving aging adults presented by Home Instead Charities. It is one of only eight non-profits in Florida included in the program. This year, funds are being raised for JFCS Aging Services programs including individual and group counseling, caregivers education and support, bereavement discussion groups and Alzheimer’s support groups. Gifts can be made here: https://www.give65.org/jfcs_suncoast.
During the Give65 Event, JFCS is also raising funds with the hopes of receiving up to $5,000 in matching funds from Home Instead Charities. Not only does this increase the impact of the donations received, but we are hopeful it inspires people to give back.
“For over 30 years, JFCS Aging Services programs have successfully existed through the generosity of our donors,” said Arthur Lerman, JFCS CEO. “These programs provide support to seniors and their caregivers and give them the tools to cope and find joy in every day.” JFCS also provides program participants with free onsite transportation and a free meal.
“COVID-19 has really highlighted the challenges aging adults face every day. Supporting aging adults and providing them the tools to define their own aging journey is always important, but particularly during a global pandemic. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with JFCS for the sixth-annual Give65 Event and hope our partnership inspires greater charitable giving in support of older adults who rely on the important work of the charitable sector,” says Lenli Corbett, executive director of Home Instead Charities.
The 65-hour Give65 Event begins at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 13 and concludes at 2:00 a.m. on July 16. To learn more about Give65, visit Give65.org. All donations are 100 percent tax deductible in the United States.
About JFCS of the Suncoast
Celebrating its 35th year as one of the Florida Suncoast’s leading mental health and human services agencies, Jewish Family and Children’s Service offers programs that support youth, families, seniors and veterans. Inspired by the Jewish tradition of helping all people, services are delivered regardless of religious preference and with the goal of empowering individuals and families to self-sufficiency and stability. For more information, visit https://JFCS-Cares.org/ or call (941) 366-2224.