$50,000 Gift to Invest in the Technology Needs of Older Adults

February 14, 2024 – Sarasota

Senior Friendship Centers receives $50,000 gift from Church of the Redeemer in Downtown Sarasota to invest in technology needs of older adults in DeSoto County – one of the oldest, more rural areas in Florida.

DeSoto County experienced substantial damage when Hurricane Ian directly hit Southwest Florida, flooding about 2,000 homes. Recognizing the urgent need for sustained support, Senior Friendship Centers has been working with community leaders to rebuild lives, restart households, and restore hope. Now, SFC is adding addressing the technology gap among older adults, thanks to Church of the Redeemer.

AARP reports the digital divide among older adults isn’t just a matter of convenience but has health implications for seniors, including increased morbidity and risk of early death. Desoto County Government reports that 3,250 households lack internet access, and half of those with access, have internet speeds ten times less than nearby counties. With 30% of the Desoto County population being seniors, Senior Friendship Centers is working toward bridging the digital divide. 

The $50,000 gift from the Church of the Redeemer will fund essential equipment, software, and space adaptation to equip and train seniors in technology. This includes computers, desks, chairs, software, training programs, and outreach efforts to ensure inclusivity.

“The impact of this generous gift extends far beyond material resources,” says President/CEO Erin McLeod. “Access to technology will empower family caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s, support grandparents raising grandchildren, connect solo-dwellers with loved ones far away, and provide opportunities for seniors to continue learning and access health and wellness resources such as telehealth.”

Senior Friendship Centers has also partnered with Comcast and AARP’s Senior Planet University on curriculum, as well as, Boys & Girls Club for intergenerational learning. 

For more information about Senior Friendship Centers’ programs and services in Desoto County, please call (863) 494-5965.

For media inquiries, contact jvelarde@friendshipcenters.org or tcardwell@friendshipcenters.org