OF MANATEE

update FALL 2014

811 23rd Avenue EastBradenton, FL 34208

P: 941-747-4655 • F: 941-746-7040info@mealsonwheelsplus.org

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John was 88 years old when he started participating in a Meals on Wheels PLUS Friendship Dining program. Soon after, he suffered a minor stroke and began to experience some dementia. His family worried about leaving him home alone while they worked, so he began attending Daybreak Adult Day Services. His demeanor improved during the first week! Two years passed, and John was hospitalized for congestive heart failure. He returned to Daybreak with a wheelchair and oxygen tank. After three months, he was free of the equipment and fully participating again. Daybreak provides John with socialization, good nutrition, and mental stimulation. His family gains peace of mind and support to help him age with dignity.

As the only licensed Adult Day Care program in Manatee County, Daybreak fills an important role. Caregivers receive a break from the demands of their full-time role and those who attend the program feel a sense of purpose and belonging they might not otherwise have. In this fun, stimulating environment, the group celebrates holidays, hosts birthday parties, participates in talent shows, and makes floral arrangements, among many other activities.

We are very excited to announce that Daybreak is moving to a beautiful facility in eastern Manatee County. At the current location on borrowed property near Mixon’s Fruit Farms, hundreds of local families have received daytime care for a frail loved one. The new facility is more modern, offers easier access from I-75 and State Road 70, and has a floorplan that is perfect for Daybreak activities. There are very few resources for senior care in the eastern part of the county, so the relocation will allow us

to serve more Manatee County residents. Our goal is to also include a remote access point for home-delivered meal volunteers and a Food Bank depository at the building.

If you are interested in learning more, or would like to contribute to this important project, please call us at 941-747-4655.

A New Day for “Daybreak”

Daybreak clients enjoy a Halloween Party with a festive homemade photo booth!

meals on wheels plus

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Board of Directors

From the first time I took a tour of Meals on Wheels PLUS’s operations, I knew that so many important services were happening at this organization! From traditional home-delivered meal service

and group dining centers to its more recent Senior Wheels transportation program, to feeding babies and children, Meals on Wheels PLUS is an essential resource for Manatee County. With that being said, I am thrilled to share the news that we will soon have a location in East Manatee County to better serve our community, as you saw in the cover story. The primary program housed in the facility will be Daybreak Adult Day Services, which offers daytime care to frail seniors living with a caregiver. We welcome the opportunity to host you for a tour once operations are up and running in this new facility.

I am also happy to report that Convenient Cuisine sales are growing as more people recognize the value of having a hot, nutritious meal after surgery, hospitalization, or rehabilitation. Even those who simply want to visit with a homebound client over lunch can purchase our meals, regardless of age or ability. With increasingly uncertain funding sources, initiatives like this one allow Meals on Wheels PLUS to create alternative income sources. Another such program is Grandma’s Goodies, in which sweet cookies and chocolate bark are made to order and can even be delivered. As the holidays approach, this is a wonderful way to show clients, neighbors or friends that you care– about them AND the community!

With the number of American “seniors” projected to climb to its highest point ever, Meals on Wheels PLUS will work even harder to fulfill our mission of “assisting individuals to live independently, by providing nutrition and caring supportive services.” This would not be possible without the generosity of community leaders, businesses, and supporters like you. From the Board of Directors and all of us at Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, thank you for being part of the “PLUS” that makes our community a better place.

Will Robinson, ChairBlalock Walters, P.A.

Michelle Detweiler, Vice ChairDetweiler’s Propane Gas Service

Lynette Edwards, TreasurerRetired Educator

Summer Smith, TreasurerBay News 9

Terry Wells, Member-at-LargeCommunity Volunteer

MEMBERS

Bob BeckAutomated HR Solutions

Vernon DeSearManatee Memorial Hospital

Randy DillinghamCS&L

Mary ForristallForristall Enterprises

Mark GoodsonGoodson Electric, Inc.

Terry GubbinsWalgreens

Kathy MartellaCommunity Volunteer

Virginia OrensteinLiving on the Suncoast Magazine

Alfred Roach20 Minutes to Fitness

Jimmy StewartLakewood Ranch Communities

STAY CONNECTEDWe invite you to stay connected with us by joining our mailing list, liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, scheduling a tour, or visiting our websites.

Meals on Wheels PLUSRenaissance on 9thFood Bank of Manatee

Meals on Wheels PLUSRenaissance on 9thFood Bank of Manatee

mealsonwheelsplus.orgrenaissanceon9th.orgfoodbankofmanatee.org

Exciting News fromMeals on Wheels PLUS!

Maribeth PhillipsCEO

meals on wheels plusBring a Buddy!Looking for a reason to get out of the house and spend time with a friend? Become a volunteer for Meals on Wheels PLUS! There are so many opportunities to stay active while helping to give back and have fun at the same time. Meal delivery drivers are needed and work well with the “buddy system” – this allows one person to focus on driving while the other helps navigate and is a “jumper,” hopping out to bring the meal to the client’s door.

Volunteers are also needed for special events, clerical duties, or to instruct classes at the Senior Enrichment Center. Call Volunteer Services for details at 941-747-4655.

It may seem difficult to connect our beliefs and values to the next generation, but it’s actually easier than ever. Here are a few ways that you can share your values with children, grandchildren, or extended family:

• Make a Donation in Honor of a Family Member. Give the organization his or her mailing address to send follow-up information. This will spread awareness about the cause you value and set a great example.

• Get involved by volunteering and invite others to participate with you. Through personal experience, they will better understand why you support a particular cause or organization.

Creating a Legacy• In Lieu of Gifts, Request Donations to your charity of choice. This is another way to create awareness of a cause you value.

• Establish a Donor Advised Fund with a local Community Foundation and involve your family in making meaningful gifts to charity.

• Support an Organization’s Endowment, which exists as a source of future funding. You can create a fund in your family’s name within the Endowment, which will then live on in perpetuity, benefiting whichever cause you choose for years to come.

For information on legacy giving, contact Kristen at ktheisen@mealsonwheelsplus.org or 941-749-0100.

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Volunteer, Ron gets assistance from his “Buddy” for the day, Manatee County Commissioner Betsy Benac.

Providing a lifeline, for ever

senior programs

Friendship Dining

Our Senior Lunch Club recently had a scent-sational visit from Mocha, a Brown Skunk and Officer Fischer from Florida Fish and Game. Each week a different speaker visits with new and interesting information on local attractions,

senior health and wellness and much more. For information on meeting times and locations, contact Sheila Rapavi at 941-747-4655 or srapavi@mealsonwheelsplus.org.

The Friendship Dining Center located at the Palmetto Elks Lodge did a wonderful job hosting a party to honor all September birthdays. Clients from all six

centers attended. Activities included dancing, singing, laughing and a lively game of trivia with prizes for

correct answers.The celebration was held on Tuesday, September 23, 2014. This date was symbolic for a two reasons: the first day of Fall and National Falls Prevention Day.

To make this event both fun and educational, clients participated in an interactive discussion about

preventing falls. Additionally, fact sheets were given to all clients to reiterate the tips they learned in the discussion. For more information on this program,

contact Jerry Gironda at 941-747-4655 orjgironda@mealsonwheeslplus.org.

Centers Gather to Celebrate Birthdays

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New Technology Coming to Meals on Wheels PLUS• Thanks to a generous grant of $33,697 from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, Meals on Wheels PLUS is upgrading its technology to be more efficient. The project includes a customized software program to accurately maintain client information, increased data storage, and updated website capabilities to improve access and communication. The Food Bank will also implement an electronic inventory system, reducing staff time and increasing accuracy.

• Inspired Living at Hidden Lakes recently contributed $1,700 to cover the entire cost of a new temperature system for the Meals on Wheels PLUS kitchen. This new technology will ensure accuracy in monitoring the temperatures for reporting purposes, as well as increase productivity. Inspired Living at Hidden Lakes is also providing support through advertising on monthly meal menus and a home-delivered meals route!

Have you heard about “Convenient Cuisine?”

Meals on Wheels PLUS recently launched a new program called Convenient Cuisine. Convenient Cuisine meals are available for order, just like our home-delivered meals, on either a permanent or temporary basis. Convenient Cuisine meals are available for

just $6.00 each!*

Call 941-747-4655 for more informationor to order Convenient Cuisine.

*Subject to local delivery route.Please order at least 24 hours in advance.

Are you or someone you know unable to drive? Maybe you are able to drive, but you no longer wish to do so. For adults over age 50, Senior Wheels is here to help. Our trained drivers will pick you up and take you places like doctor’s appointments, hair appointments, grocery shopping and much more. Senior Wheels is a membership-based service and fees apply. However, limited scholarships are available. For more information, call 941-747-7433 or visit www.mealsonwheelsplus.org.

food bank of manateeThis year’s White Out Hunger/Grand Challenge campaign ran from June 1 to September 1. Nearly 50,000 pounds of food was collected from area businesses and individuals, with 4 companies surpassing 1,000 pounds! Additionally, $31,030 was contributed from individuals, businesses and foundations, with 10 gifts at $1,000 or more!

Also part of the White Out Hunger campaign, the 2nd Annual White Party was held in early June at the home of Chris Whittaker and David Scherer. Guests had a wonderful time dining on delicious light bites from Renaissance on 9th’s Executive Chef David Meador, fabulous drinks and trying their luck at great raffle prizes. Through this event, over $6,600 was raised for The Food Bank of Manatee. Watch for news on the next White Party!

White Out Hunger Campaign

• The Food Bank of Manatee received $10,000 from the Bob & Hope Black Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County for the Summer Hunger campaign. As part of the “Grand Challenge,” individuals, businesses, and civic groups were asked to contribute food or funds to help keep the shelves stocked at The Food Bank during the busy summer months when many families need assistance.

• Thanks to the generosity of The Mosaic Company Foundation, The Food Bank of Manatee received grants totaling $9,000 to help prevent local hunger. Through Mosaic’s partnerships with The Tampa Bay Lightning in “Goals for Food” and The Tampa Bay Rays “Home Runs for Food,” The Food Bank was the big winner, while players and fans were energized for this great cause. The Tampa Bay Rays Foundation also gave a grant of $5,000 to The Food Bank, which will help provide healthy, kid-friendly snacks for children of low-income families.

• A big thanks to The Service Club of Manatee, which awarded $5,000 to The Food Bank of Manatee for its Baby Basket program, which provides infant necessities like formula and diapers to needy families with babies under age two.

Wishes “Granted!”

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Calling all Runners!Upcoming Events to benefit

Meals on Wheels PLUSand The Food Bank of Manatee:

Sat., Nov. 228am- Race StartHarvest United

Methodist ChurchTo register, visit

harvesthustle5k.com.

Thurs., Nov. 278am- Race StartDesoto NationalMemorial Park

For information, visit bradentonrunnersclub.com.

More information coming soon to mealsonwheelsplus.org!

Fri., Mar. 27Evening Start

RobinsonPreserve

Guests at the 2nd Annual White Party enjoyed a wonderful evening at a beautiful home on Palma Sola Bay.

Bradenton Turkey Trot

renaissance on 9th

• HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR Wednesday, November 19 Come learn about local resources

available to keep you healthy.

• “EVERYTHING BUT THE BIRD” Thursday, November 20 Don’t miss this interactive cooking

demo featuring delicious Thanksgiving side dishes!

• SALUTE TO AMERICA & HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Sunday, December 7 Join us for dinner and a patriotic

themed show featuring local talent Bonnie Gray!

For information, call 941-749-0100.

JOIN US!

LIVE NOW, AGE LATER!– for the fun and over 50

NEW EVENTS AND CLASSES MONTHLY! Stop by the SEC or visit www.renaissanceon9th.org to view our monthly calendar and newsletter and to receive your FREE one day pass. Members enjoy classes, special events, fitness and more! Membership is open to active adults ages 50 and up.

Call 941-749-0100 to learn more about becoming a Senior Enrichment Center member.

When you enjoy goods or services at Renaissance on 9th, you support the programs of Meals on Wheels PLUS.

Renaissance on 9th 1816 9th St W • Bradenton, FL 34205

www.renaissanceon9th.org

Welcome to our new events and catering staff!Julie Fodor

Events & Catering Coordinator

Julie works closely with our clients, Executive Chef and catering staff to create memorable

experiences ranging from board meetings to elegant weddings. Julie has 22 years of

restaurant and catering experience.

Julie is passionate about helping others. Julie says, “Some may not be aware, but

Renaissance on 9th is a part of Meals on Wheels

PLUS of Manatee. By working at Renaissance

on 9th, I get to do a job that I love and also support a cause I truly

believe in.”

Brigid DriskillCatering Sales Manager

Brigid recently relocated from Wilmington, N.C., where she worked for the Hilton brand as Catering Manager for five years.

She is a dynamic and accomplished catering and event planning professional with extensive experience in social and corporate markets. She has notable success in large-scale event planning, preparation, logistics and production. Her goal is to grow Renaissance on 9th catering and event sales through personal outreach, relationship building and various activities in the local community.

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1816 9th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205 • 941-749-0100 • RenaissanceOn9th.org

Elegant Setting • Exceptional CuisineExtraordinary Events

WEDDINGS • CORPORATE EVENTS • SPECIAL EVENTS • ANNIVERSARIES • FUNDRAISERSCONFERENCES • QUINCEAÑERAS • CELEBRATIONS • RECEPTIONS • PARTIES

Find out how you can become an annual or event

sponsor. Call 941-749-0100

today!

Thank you to our Annual Sponsors

BB&T

Brown & Brown Insurance

Good News Pest Solutions

Stillman’s Tree Service

PLATINUM PLATE GOLD PLATE SILVER PLATE BRONZE PLATE

upcoming events

Senior Shoe Box ProgramEach year, volunteers wrap and fill shoe boxes with donated items like socks, stationary, puzzles and toiletries. These filled shoe boxes are then delivered to home-bound seniors during the holidays. To get involved, call 941-749-0100.

Shoe Box Wrapping Parties

Shoe Box Receptions

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Sat, Nov 22 & Sun, Nov 23Food Collections at all

Manatee County Publix Stores

Proceeds benefit

The Food Bank of Manatee

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 • 11am-1pm8131 Main Street • Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7 • 11am-1pmRenaissance on 9th

1816 9th Street West • Bradenton, FL 34205Rain or shine!

Tickets: $25Buy online at foodbankofmanatee.org, call 941-749-0100

or purchase at the door.

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Enjoy delicious soups provided by local restaurants,fresh bread, dessert and select a beautiful,

handcrafted bowl to keep.The symbolic meal of soup and bread demonstrates

that together, we can fill the empty bowlsof our neighbors in need.

THE FOOD BANK OF MANATEEANNUAL BENEFIT LUNCHEON

Annual Platinum Sponsors

Event Sponsors and Partners

Bouchard Insurance • Feld EntertainmentFirst America Bank • First Bank

Global Organics Specialty Source • Grow FinancialMain Street at Lakewood Ranch • Payton Wright Foundation

Publix • Shepherd’s Tire Pros • Touch Corporation • Walgreens

®

2nd Street Bistro at MMH • 9th Street Bistro • Anna Maria Oyster BarArts & Eats • Clancy’s • Cortez Clam Factory • Crusader Cafe & Catering

• FCCI’s East Side Cafe • Linger Lodge • O’Brick’s Irish Pub Olive Garden • Ortygia Restaurant • Popi’s Place • Renaissance on

9th Catering • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Rosedale Golf & CC • Soma Creekside • Sweet Tomatoes • and many more to come!

Participating Restaurants Tuesday, October 21 • 5-9pmLakewood Ranch Town Hall8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.Bradenton, FL 34202

Wednesday, November 5 • 6:15-9pmLakewood Ranch Town Hall8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.Bradenton, FL 34202

Tuesday, November 18 • 11am-7pmRenaissance on 9th1816 9th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34205

Sunday, December 14 • 4-6pmThe Ranch Grill14475 SR 70 E., Bradenton, FL 34202Sunday, December 14 • Time TBAGio Fabulous Restaurants2219 60th Ave. E., Ellenton, FL 342224805 Cortez Rd. W., Bradenton, FL 34210

811 23rd Avenue EastBradenton, FL 34208mealsonwheelsplus.org941-747-4655

Non-Profit OrganizationUS Postage

PAIDPermit #156

Manasota, FL.

MAKE HOLIDAY SHOPPING COUNT!

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AmazonSmileAmazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchasesto Meals on Wheels PLUS whenever you shop on AmazonSmile. AmazonSmile isthe same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service. SupportMeals on Wheels PLUS by starting your shopping at smile.amazon.com.

iGive.comShop at any of their 1,500+ participating online stores. It’s fast and automatic with the iGive Button, their Android/iPhone app, or simply use their site to visit stores. You don’t pay more, and they show you how much you are raising before you buy. Donations range from .5% to over 20%, varying by store. Get started at igive.com.

#GivingTuesdayDecember 2, 2014, or #GivingTuesday, is a day when people around the world come together to give back. The idea is to find a way for your family, community, company or organization to come together to give something more. Then tell everyone you can about how you are giving. Join us and be a part of a global celebration of a new tradition of generosity.

Holiday shopping is easy online, and you can help benefit your favorite charities too!