Writer / Hannah Sturm
Photographer / Forrest Mellott
In our community, one out of every three senior citizens is going hungry on a daily basis. Senior citizens all around us are quietly suffering, putting their lives on the line because they are unable to pay for basic life necessities. They are struggling to balance their budgets between paying for groceries, doctor’s appointments and medication. In a generation that grew up in the Great Depression, the Executive Director of Johnson County Senior Services, Kim Smith, pointed out that “the seniors are truly thankful and have no sense of entitlement.”
Johnson County Senior Services (JCSS) was created to meet the needs of our elders and “enhance their quality of life.” What makes JCSS stand apart from other transportation companies is that it is the only free door-to-door transit for the Johnson County area. The employees will do anything from taking someone to a hair appointment to holding someone’s hand while he or she goes through dialysis. Kim says, “Every day is a blessing fest here.” JCSS always seem to find a way to provide resources for those in need, even when it seems impossible. In addition to free door-to-door transportation, JCSS also provides free food and durable medical equipment in addition to information and assistance.
From the funds they won at Pay It Forward Johnson County, JCSS made 198 trips for patients to receive lifesaving treatments. The organization is genuinely grateful and can’t wait to participate on Sept. 17 for the fifth annual golf outing. Kim spoke about how she appreciates the fact that the funds raised through Pay It Forward Johnson County can be spent in whatever way the not-for-profit deems appropriate.
JCSS will do just about anything for its clients who are seeking help. After being diagnosed with cancer, a man in his late 80s called JCSS asking if JCSS could find his high school best friend, so he could tell him the impact he had on his life. With only the name of the high school and the friend’s profession, JCSS eventually found someone who knew the man’s long-lost best friend. These types of connections happen every day in this organization, and it is the support from the community and the heart behind the mission that make it happen.
Do you have extra time, talent or funds that could benefit JCSS? If so, they are looking for your help in these areas:
• Drivers for transportation and food deliveries
• Office work, data entry, answering phones
• Donations of medical supplies/equipment and food as well as volunteers to organize the inventory
• Cleaning and maintenance
Upcoming Events:
Dining in the Dark Aug. 6
Did you know that many clients of JCSS cannot see because of old age, diabetes and other reasons? They tend to buy and eat many things that they can’t see. This event will help attendees experience what it is like to eat a meal without seeing it. Yes, those who attend will come and eat dinner in a dark room while blindfolded. Attendees will also bid blindly on auction items after only hearing them described by the auctioneer, not seeing them. It is a one of a kind event.
B.A.R.N.S. Tour Sept. 12
Do you know a senior who would enjoy a scenic bus trip touring barns in the Johnson County area? Join JCSS for a historic barn tour. The final stop will include fall festival fun with food and activities.
Connect:
Kim Smith, JCSS Executive Director
317-738-4544
info@jcseniorservices.org
jcseniorservices.org
