The Barry County Council on Aging (BCCOA), a vital resource for local seniors, is reaching out to the community for financial support to continue offering essential services to senior citizens in Barry County.
According to a Council press release, currently, the council’s programs and resources are funded exclusively by the Barry County Senior Citizens Tax Fund Board.
‘However, in order to sustain its range of services, the Council needs additional support from community members, businesses and organizations who share their commitment to assisting seniors in maintaining independence,’ the release said. Based at the Cassville Senior Center at 1111 Fair St. in Cassville, the Barry County Council on Aging is dedicated to helping seniors lead independent lives in the comfort of their own homes. By providing in-home services such as housekeeping, respite care/caregiver relief, and medical alert systems, the BCCOA aims to alleviate daily challenges that many elderly individuals face.
One of the council’s most impactful services is the respite care/caregiver relief program, which provides relief for primary caregivers. This support is critical for family members who are often the sole caregivers for their loved ones, giving them a much-needed break to recharge.
Additionally, the BCCOA offers medical alert systems, which allow seniors to call for immediate assistance in case of a fall or medical emergency, providing families peace of mind.
Beyond these services, the Council is seeking emergency funds to help cover costs for essential needs that seniors may struggle to meet, including medication expenses, electric bills, and heating costs. These emergency funds are especially critical during winter months and times of health challenges, when seniors are often faced with difficult choices between basic necessities and medications.
With rising costs, many seniors in Barry County are finding it harder to afford both necessary treatments and household expenses.
“We are deeply committed to supporting seniors in Barry County, but to continue our mission, we need financial support from the community,” said Katie Morgan, a representative for the Barry County Council on Aging. “These services make a tremendous difference in our clients’ lives, allowing them to stay in their homes and maintain their independence, which is invaluable.”
For more information or to make a donation, please contact the Barry County Council on Aging at their office in the Cassville Senior Center, or reach out to Morgan at 417-847-2229.
‘Every donation makes a difference and strengthens the ability of the Barry County Council on Aging to support the senior community,’ the press release said.
