Elderly adults are among the most underserved publics in the United States and although recent reports have broadened the national awareness of their plight, little of that focus has been dedicated to those who have lost it all. Already on the margins of society, senior citizens without homes are often overlooked and forgotten. The lack of attention may be in part due to the misconception that those who are homeless, generally choose to be that way. However, the overwhelming majority of homeless seniors just do not have the resources available to help them get back on their feet when a tragic situation arises.
The JUSTA Center is a non-profit organization based out of Phoenix, AZ that helps support homeless seniors by helping them locate benefits, obtain housing and medical assistance and by providing referrals to other needed support services. Our Scottsdale community recently partnered with the JUSTA Center to host a “Mardi Gras” charity event in hopes of raising funds to help the center operate throughout the hot summer months. This year’s Mardi Gras event hosted more than 500 guests and raised over $40,000 in proceeds to the JUSTA Center.
“Our Silverado philosophy and core values are shared by the JUSTA Center. We both strive to support underserved seniors and by partnering with the JUSTA Center, Silverado is able to provide support for seniors across the entire financial spectrum,” explains Amber McCord, Scottsdale Community Administrator.
Silverado community residents are helping as well, their Resident Rotary Club meets monthly to find new ways to help homeless seniors at the JUSTA Center. Their heartwarming commitment extended beyond the Silverado walls and has now grown to include the local chapter of the North Scottsdale Rotary Club. The two organizations now conduct joint monthly meetings at the Scottsdale community, with the sole purpose of giving back to this underserved segment of the population.
