Help Fund the Senior Center

The Sewanee Senior Citizens Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It began in 1978 with state funds for building renovation. Volunteers completed the work on the building. Part of the director’s salary was paid from Franklin County Senior funding. Meals were off ered through the state’s Nutrition Program.

In 1997 the satellite relationship with the Franklin County Senior Citizens became tenuous when the board voted to cease contributing to the director’s salary. The Sewanee Community Chest increased its donation. An anonymous donor remained committed to matching funds. The center survived.

In September 2002, the center was excluded from the state’s Nutrition Program. Meals were available again in October 2002, when Lena McBee and Frances Lappin prepared food at home and brought it to the center for distribution. Because of their efforts and the funds received from the Franklin County Commission and the Sewanee Community Chest, the center now has cooks. These cooks prepare more than 8,000 lunches annually.

In addition to meals for seniors and shut-ins, the center provides various activities, which are scheduled weekly for 75 seniors and other members of the community. Activities include games, exercise groups, musical programs, blood pressure checks and information sessions regarding nutrition and health care.

The Senior Citizens Center relies on the Community Chest for approximately 25 percent of its operating budget. Other funding comes from the Franklin County Commission. They also receive funds from bake sales and an annual Christmas bazaar. The Senior Citizens Center is requesting $12,000 for the cook’s salaries.

The Sewanee Community Chest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofi t organization, and donations are tax-deductible. Send your donation to Sewanee Community Chest, P.O. Box 99, Sewanee, TN 37375.