With the federal government shutdown expected to pause SNAP benefits starting November 1, the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is offering valuable assistance to older adults and caregivers with food access.
You’re Not Alone — Help Is Just a Call Away
AAASWFL is encouraging older adults and caregivers to reach out to the Helpline at 866-413-5337 for guidance, support and connections to local food resources. Whether you need help finding a nearby meal site or understanding what services are available, trained specialists are ready to assist.
Hot Meals, Friendly Faces: Congregate Dining Sites Are Open
AAASWFL’s congregate dining sites remain open across seven counties, offering hot, nutritious meals in welcoming community settings. These sites are available to adults aged 60 and older who live within the service area. Unpaid caregivers under 60 who accompany an eligible older adult may also receive meal service.
From breakfast and lunch options to opportunities for social connection, these sites are a vital resource during this temporary disruption.
Here’s a quick look at where and when you can find meal service:
Dining Site Locations and Service Times:
Charlotte County
Harbor Heights
27420 Voyageur Drive
Harbor Heights, FL 33983
Service Days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
Meal Service Time: 11:30 AM
Charlotte Towers
2295 Aaron St.
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Service Days: Monday – Thursday
Meal Service Time: 11:15 AM
Christian City of Florida
6433 Gasparilla Pines Blvd.
Grove City, FL 34224
Service Days: Monday – Thursday
Meal Service Time: 12:00 PM
The Verandas
24500 Airport Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Service Days: Monday – Thursday
Meal Service Time: 11:30 AM
Collier County
Cadenza
8455 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd.
Naples, FL 34114
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 12:00 PM
Immokalee Senior Meal Site
905 Roberts Ave.
Immokalee, FL 34142
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 8:30 AM & 11:15 AM
Golden Gate Senior Center
4898 Coronado Pkwy
Naples, FL 34116
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 12:00 PM
Goodlette Arms
950 Goodletter Road N
Naples, FL 34102
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 12:00 PM
DeSoto County
Arcadia Friendship Café
917 N. Arcadia Ave.
Arcadia, FL 34266
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:00 AM
Glades County
Moore Haven
200 2nd St.
Moore Haven, FL 34741
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Hendry County
Nobel Senior Center
475 East Cowboy Way
LaBelle, FL 33935
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Clewiston
1200 S. WC Owens
Clewiston, FL 33440
Service Days: Tuesday & Thursday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Lee County
Lake Kennedy Senior Center
400 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Cape Coral, FL 33991
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:00 AM
South Cape Community Center
4544 Coronado Pkwy.
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Service Days: Tuesday & Friday
Meal Service Times: 10:30 AM
Bonita Springs Senior Center
25999 Old 41 Rd.
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Sunshine Villas
1201 Broad St.
Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 12:00 PM
Hatton B. Rogers Apartments
4250 Hatton Rogers Lane
Fort Myers, FL 33903
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:30 AM
Renaissance Preserve
4221 Othello Ln.
Fort Myers, FL 33916
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:30 AM
Palm Harbor
1081 Palm Avenue
North Fort Myers, FL 33903
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:15 AM
Sarasota County
Venice Friendship Café
2350 Scenic Dr.
Venice, FL 34293
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 12:00 PM
The Friendship Center
1888 Brother Geenen Way
Sarasota, FL 34236
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Transportation assistance may be available. Call the Helpline for details.
Posted: March 30, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Medicare Minute: Understanding Emergency & Urgently Needed Care Under Medicare
When a health crisis strikes, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is whether their care will be covered. Medicare has clear rules that protect you in emergencies and in situations where you need care right away, even if you’re far from home or outside your plan’s network.
According to the Medicare Rights Center, an emergency medical condition is one in which symptoms are “severe enough that someone with an average knowledge of health and medicine could reasonably expect your health to be in serious danger if you don’t get medical attention right away.” Urgently needed care, on the other hand, is medically necessary care that cannot reasonably wait.
These definitions matter for everyone with Medicare, but they are especially important for people enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. Here’s what you should know.
Emergency Room Care Is Covered Nationwide
Both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage must cover emergency room services anywhere in the United States. You do not need to use an in‑network provider, and you do not need a referral.
If you’re stabilized after an emergency but still need follow‑up care that cannot safely be delayed, your Medicare Advantage plan must also cover that care. And if your plan denies coverage, you have the right to appeal.
Importantly, Medicare rules protect you even when a situation appears to be an emergency. As the handout explains, “If your condition was not an emergency but appeared to be an emergency, your care must still be covered.”
Ambulance Coverage: What’s Included
Medicare covers emergency ambulance transportation when your health is in serious danger and you cannot be transported safely by other means. Coverage applies only when the ambulance takes you to certain approved locations, such as the nearest appropriate hospital.
Be alert for potential ambulance fraud or billing errors. Red flags include being transported in an unapproved vehicle, being billed for more miles than you traveled, or being taken to a non‑covered destination like a doctor’s office.
Emergency Care Outside the U.S.
Medicare generally does not cover care outside the country, but there are a few exceptions. You may be covered if:
Where to Turn for Help
If you have questions about your Medicare coverage, need help appealing a denial, or want to report potential fraud, you have trusted local resources:
You can find a convenient handout with all the details here.
Call us toll-free at 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org for local support.
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,000,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. government.
Posted: February 20, 2026 by Leave a Comment
AAASWFL Partners with the Florida Everblades for a Community Fundraising Night on April 17
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is excited to announce a special community event that brings together local fun and meaningful impact. We’ve partnered with the Florida Everblades for a Fundraising Night during one of the final home games of the season—an opportunity for families, friends, and supporters across our region to enjoy an exciting night of hockey while giving back to a mission that strengthens Southwest Florida.
📅 Friday, April 17, 2026
🕢 7:30 p.m.
📍 Hertz Arena, Estero, FL
When you purchase tickets through our exclusive event link, a portion of each ticket sale is donated directly back to AAASWFL, Inc. This support helps us continue providing vital services, resources, and programs for older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers across our seven‑county region. The Everblades’ community fundraising program is designed to help local nonprofits raise funds through special ticket packages, with $5 from every ticket purchased through the AAASWFL link going back to support our work.
As the state‑designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida, AAASWFL connects individuals and families to essential services—from home‑delivered meals and transportation assistance to caregiver support, long‑term care resources, and more . Community partnerships like this one help us expand our reach and deepen our impact.
Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan or simply looking for a fun night out, this is a wonderful way to enjoy a great game while supporting a cause that matters.
🎟️ Purchase Tickets: www.bladestix.com/aaaswfl (Only tickets purchased through this link count toward the fundraiser.)
We encourage you to invite your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors—and feel free to share the event within your personal networks to help us maximize participation and support.
We can’t wait to see you at Hertz Arena on April 17 for a night of community, connection, and Everblades hockey.
Posted: February 3, 2026 by Leave a Comment
A Request for Proposals for a CCE Lead Agency in Hendry & Glades Counties To Be Announced Soon
We will be officially posting this opportunity later this month and are seeking a qualified Case Management agency to determine eligibility and coordinate supportive services under the Community Care for the Elderly (CCE), Home Care for the Elderly (HCE), and Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI) state-funded programs.
The selected provider will manage case management and care coordination for these programs during the annual July 1–June 30 contracting period.
Visit AAASWFL’s social media accounts and website’s Document Center for updates and contact sarah.gualco@aaaswfl.org with any questions.
Posted: January 21, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Be Part of Something New and Meaningful
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida has never had an event quite like this. Our first‑ever Wave of Compassion Volunteer Awards Luncheon is more than a gathering — it’s the launch of a new annual tradition honoring the volunteers who lift up older adults and adults with disabilities across our seven‑county region.
If you believe in community…
If you value service…
If you want to celebrate the quiet heroes who make Southwest Florida stronger…
This is your moment to show up.
Seats are limited for this inaugural event.
Get your tickets today and celebrate our volunteers!
Your presence helps honor extraordinary volunteers, supports AAASWFL’s mission, and ensures this new tradition begins with the energy, gratitude and community spirit it deserves.
Join us. Celebrate with us. Help us say thank you in the biggest way possible.
Posted: January 21, 2026 by Leave a Comment
New Program Launch: Adult Mental Health First Aid Training
Multiple Dates Now Available Beginning February 2026
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is proud to introduce a new training opportunity designed to strengthen mental health support across our communities. The Adult Mental Health First Aid Training is an evidence-based public education program that teaches adults how to recognize signs of mental health challenges, respond with empathy, and connect individuals to appropriate care.
Whether you’re a caregiver, service provider, community leader, or simply someone who wants to help, this course equips you with practical tools to make a difference.
What You’ll Learn
Participants will gain skills in:
By the end of the course, attendees will be able to describe the role of a Mental Health First Aider, understand the impact of mental health challenges on adults in the U.S., and apply the ALGEE Action Plan in a variety of scenarios.
Course Format
Upcoming Training Dates
We’re offering multiple opportunities to participate throughout the spring:
All sessions will be held virtually via Zoom, making it easy to join from anywhere.
How to Register
To sign up or learn more, contact:
tiah.thompson@aaaswfl.org
239-652-6941
Posted: December 23, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida Temporarily Pauses Senior HomeShare Project
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) announces that the SWFL Senior HomeShare Project has been temporarily paused effective immediately due to unforeseen circumstances affecting project implementation. The organization remains deeply committed to this innovative housing solution and plans to revamp and relaunch the program when conditions allow.
The Senior HomeShare Project was designed to address an urgent crisis in Lee and Collier counties, where senior homelessness has reached alarming levels. According to local Continuum of Care data, senior homelessness in Lee County rose from 85 individuals in 2019 to 260 in 2024—an increase of more than 200 percent. Collier County experienced a dramatic spike in 2023, when senior homelessness more than quadrupled in a single year. These trends reflect mounting housing affordability pressures, with fixed incomes failing to keep pace with rising rents, taxes, and insurance costs, compounded by the lasting impacts of COVID-19 and Hurricane Ian.
The program, modeled after the successful Pinellas Home Share which has operated for over 19 years, was designed to match Home Providers (homeowners age 55+) with Home Seekers (renters age 55+) to create safe, affordable, and mutually beneficial living arrangements. Beyond addressing housing affordability, the program aimed to reduce social isolation and enhance safety for participants through companionship and shared living support.
“While we are disappointed to pause this critical initiative, we believe taking time to reassess and strengthen the program’s foundation will ultimately lead to more successful outcomes for our seniors,” said Maricela Morado, President & CEO of AAASWFL. “The data shows that older adults are entering homelessness for the first time at unprecedented rates, making preventative, cost-effective solutions like Senior HomeShare more essential than ever. Our commitment to addressing this crisis remains unwavering.”
The AAASWFL had developed comprehensive safety protocols for the program in partnership with other community organizations, including national criminal background checks, reference verification, home safety visit, and quarterly check-ins in the first year to ensure participant wellbeing. The organization will use this pause to further refine these processes and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, some including Baker Senior Center Naples, and the Lee and Collier Continuum of Care Committees to name a couple.
The organization appreciates the support and interest shown by community members, partner organizations, and potential participants who have inquired about the program. The AAASWFL will continue to provide its comprehensive range of services to older adults and adults with disabilities across its seven-county service area while working diligently to reimagine the HomeShare Project’s structure and implementation strategy.
For more information about AAASWFL’s current services and programs, please visit www.aaaswfl.org or call the Elder Helpline at 1-866-413-5337.
Last Updated: January 22, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Waves of Compassion: Sponsorship Opportunities for the 2026 Volunteer Awards Luncheon
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is proud to announce our inaugural Volunteer Awards Luncheon: Waves of Compassion – The Endless Tides of Service, honoring the extraordinary volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to serving seniors and adults with disabilities across our region.
This celebration will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Plantation Golf & Country Club in Venice, FL, and will shine a spotlight on the individuals whose compassion strengthens our community every day. As a sponsor, your organization can play a vital role in uplifting these volunteers while gaining meaningful visibility and recognition.
Why Sponsor?
Your sponsorship directly supports AAASWFL programs that empower thousands of seniors and adults with disabilities to live safely, independently, and with dignity. As this is our first Volunteer Awards Luncheon, your organization will be recognized as a foundational supporter and community leader.
Together, we can celebrate the spirit of volunteerism and strengthen our shared commitment to serving Southwest Florida’s most vulnerable populations.
To learn more about available sponsorship opportunities, levels and benefits, download our sponsorship packet here.
You can also download the sponsorship form and pay online to confirm your support.
Last Updated: January 5, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Waves of Compassion: Celebrate Volunteer Heroes in Southwest Florida
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is proud to launch the inaugural 2026 Volunteer Awards, honoring the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their time and talents to serving older adults and adults with disabilities across our seven-county region.
Behind every meal delivered to a homebound senior, every ride to a medical appointment, and every hour spent easing loneliness, there is a volunteer whose name deserves to be known. These awards shine a spotlight on those unsung heroes whose compassion transforms lives.
Nominations Now Open
Nominations will be accepted through January 12, 2026. Winners will be honored at the Volunteer Appreciation Celebration & Waves of Compassion Awards Luncheon on:
Friday, February 27, 2026
Plantation Golf & Country Club
500 Rockley Blvd, Venice, FL 34293
Award Categories & Criteria
Eight distinct awards recognize the breadth of volunteer impact across generations and service areas.
Serving Seniors
Supporting Adults with Disabilities
Each award highlights not just hours served, but the dignity restored, connections created, and lives changed.
Why Your Nomination Matters
“Too many volunteers work in the shadows, never expecting recognition,” said Maricela Morado, President & CEO of AAASWFL. “This is our community’s chance to say we see you, and what you do matters.”
Your nomination could be the first time someone hears those words.
How to Nominate
Submit your nomination through the Volunteer Award Nomination Form.
For questions or to purchase tickets, contact AAASWFL at 239-652-6900 or ea@aaaswfl.org.
The celebration will culminate in the Waves of Compassion Awards Luncheon, a gathering of community leaders, sponsors, and advocates who believe in the endless tides of service.
Together, let’s celebrate the volunteers who restore dignity, create connections, and inspire waves of compassion across Southwest Florida.
Posted: October 30, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Supporting Southwest Florida Seniors: Food Assistance Available Ahead of SNAP Benefit Pause
With the federal government shutdown expected to pause SNAP benefits starting November 1, the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is offering valuable assistance to older adults and caregivers with food access.
You’re Not Alone — Help Is Just a Call Away
AAASWFL is encouraging older adults and caregivers to reach out to the Helpline at 866-413-5337 for guidance, support and connections to local food resources. Whether you need help finding a nearby meal site or understanding what services are available, trained specialists are ready to assist.
Hot Meals, Friendly Faces: Congregate Dining Sites Are Open
AAASWFL’s congregate dining sites remain open across seven counties, offering hot, nutritious meals in welcoming community settings. These sites are available to adults aged 60 and older who live within the service area. Unpaid caregivers under 60 who accompany an eligible older adult may also receive meal service.
From breakfast and lunch options to opportunities for social connection, these sites are a vital resource during this temporary disruption.
Here’s a quick look at where and when you can find meal service:
Dining Site Locations and Service Times:
Charlotte County
Harbor Heights
27420 Voyageur Drive
Harbor Heights, FL 33983
Service Days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
Meal Service Time: 11:30 AM
Charlotte Towers
2295 Aaron St.
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Service Days: Monday – Thursday
Meal Service Time: 11:15 AM
Christian City of Florida
6433 Gasparilla Pines Blvd.
Grove City, FL 34224
Service Days: Monday – Thursday
Meal Service Time: 12:00 PM
The Verandas
24500 Airport Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Service Days: Monday – Thursday
Meal Service Time: 11:30 AM
Collier County
Cadenza
8455 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd.
Naples, FL 34114
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 12:00 PM
Immokalee Senior Meal Site
905 Roberts Ave.
Immokalee, FL 34142
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 8:30 AM & 11:15 AM
Golden Gate Senior Center
4898 Coronado Pkwy
Naples, FL 34116
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 12:00 PM
Goodlette Arms
950 Goodletter Road N
Naples, FL 34102
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 12:00 PM
DeSoto County
Arcadia Friendship Café
917 N. Arcadia Ave.
Arcadia, FL 34266
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:00 AM
Glades County
Moore Haven
200 2nd St.
Moore Haven, FL 34741
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Hendry County
Nobel Senior Center
475 East Cowboy Way
LaBelle, FL 33935
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Clewiston
1200 S. WC Owens
Clewiston, FL 33440
Service Days: Tuesday & Thursday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Lee County
Lake Kennedy Senior Center
400 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Cape Coral, FL 33991
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:00 AM
South Cape Community Center
4544 Coronado Pkwy.
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Service Days: Tuesday & Friday
Meal Service Times: 10:30 AM
Bonita Springs Senior Center
25999 Old 41 Rd.
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Sunshine Villas
1201 Broad St.
Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 12:00 PM
Hatton B. Rogers Apartments
4250 Hatton Rogers Lane
Fort Myers, FL 33903
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:30 AM
Renaissance Preserve
4221 Othello Ln.
Fort Myers, FL 33916
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:30 AM
Palm Harbor
1081 Palm Avenue
North Fort Myers, FL 33903
Service Days: Monday – Friday (Breakfast & Lunch)
Meal Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:15 AM
Sarasota County
Venice Friendship Café
2350 Scenic Dr.
Venice, FL 34293
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 12:00 PM
The Friendship Center
1888 Brother Geenen Way
Sarasota, FL 34236
Service Days: Monday – Friday
Meal Service Times: 11:30 AM
Transportation assistance may be available. Call the Helpline for details.
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