TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Around 200 neighbors came out for Elder Care Services' 27th Annual Oktoberfest Sunday.
The community fundraiser supports critical programs and services for seniors across the Big Bend. Specifically, the group says that includes vital nutrition to home-bound seniors, social connection, personalized care, and emergency assistance for seniors in crisis situations.
While the organization receives grant funding, they say those funds alone are often not enough to meet their financial needs.
Elder Care Services CEO Jocelyne Fliger said, "We are seeing more need now than ever from people 60 and older, so when we are able to hold events like this, we are able to help more seniors in need."
"It brings a lot of awareness to the community and is a great opportunity to learn more about what we are doing, who we are serving, and what our needs are to continue doing what we are doing,” Elder Care Services Board Chair Hella Spellman added.
Community member Dan Parisi attends Oktoberfest every year, not just to support seniors in need but to help foster a stronger sense of community.
“We’re a big nonprofit community, and we do a lot of good things. We’re helping people every day, and we’re also providing jobs for people right here in our community," Parisi said.
Organizers say this year’s event is especially crucial, due to SNAP benefits funding running out.
With more seniors facing food insecurity and limited resources, Elder Care Services says they will need all the community support they can get to continue caring for seniors in our area.
“Events like this help us close that financial gap and keep our agency strong," Fliger said.
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