Grant to help JFCS Address Loneliness in Seniors in Underserved Metro Districts
March 2024 - Senior adults in Louisville Metro Council Districts 5 and 6 will soon have resources available to them to help combat loneliness, isolation and connect them with community resources that will help them live longer independently, and increase their quality of life.
Jewish Family & Career Services (JFCS) has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the Humana Foundation. The grant will enable JFCS to take its Klein Older Adult Program’s highly successful array of services to areas of Louisville currently underserved by existing programs in the community.
“Through programs like group social activities, exercise and recreation classes, and home-based services, we hope to decrease the social isolation seniors often experience as they try desperately to remain independent and age with dignity,” said JFCS CEO, Dr. David Finke.
The Humana Foundation through its health equity strategy is focused on partnering with grassroots organizations to combat loneliness in diverse and underserved communities. “We’re proud to support Jewish Family & Career Services in empowering seniors to live longer, healthier and more connected lives,” said Tiffany Benjamin, CEO of the Humana Foundation. “The Klein Older Adult Program will enable Louisville seniors and help them to age with merit and independence.”
JFCS worked closely with Louisville Metro Council in identifying the most pressing needs for seniors and identified District 5 (Councilwoman Donna Purvis - Shawnee, Chickasaw, Portland and Russell neighborhoods) and District 6 (Councilman Phillip Baker - Old Louisville, Shelby Park and parts of the Algonquin and Park Hill neighborhoods) as the two areas to concentrate on during the funding period.
“This gracious gift will make a difference in the lives of seniors who are in need of engagement and nurturing,” said Donna Purvis, District 5 Councilwoman. “Thanks to the Humana Foundation for the love they have shown to a forgotten community,” Purvis said.
Programs aimed at reducing senior isolation not only bridge generational gaps but also serve as a testament to our commitment to fostering a compassionate and interconnected community. “When we prioritize initiatives that bring our seniors together, such as this one with Jewish Family and Career Services, we enhance their quality of life and enrich the fabric of our entire community,” said Philip Baker, District 6 Councilman. “I thank Councilwoman Purvis, Jewish Family & Career Services and the Humana Foundation for lending their support to this important initiative.”
The grant allowed JFCS to hire a coordinator, Whitney Boswell, to oversee the program and its implementation in both Metro Districts.