The Collier County "lifeline" as senior homelessness triples

GOLDEN GATE, Fla. (WINK) — Homelessness among seniors in Collier County is growing fast, and one organization is stepping up to help.

Americans more than 55 years old are the fastest-growing group facing homelessness in the country, according to the latest federal data.

In Collier County, the numbers are significantly outpacing the rest of the country. Last month, WINK Investigates showed how homelessness among seniors in Collier County tripled in the last year.

The Collier Senior Center in Golden Gate is the first organization in the county dedicated to helping low-income seniors.

The nonprofit first opened in 2010 and offers free programs and services for seniors, caregivers, and others in need.

It is a packed house at the center five days a week, with everything from Zumba classes to daily free meals, though there is currently a waiting list for meals.

The center also offers financial assistance programs, gas cards, and help with utility and medical bills.

Lani Rosario, the social service coordinator, said the need has grown sharply in recent years.

"The population that we serve is low-income seniors. There's a big need in Collier County," Rosario said.

Rosario said the lack of affordable housing and rising health care costs are some of the biggest contributors to the growing need.

"They have to decide if they are going to afford their rent or they're going to eat that month. That's not fair," Rosario said.

The center also gives seniors a place to connect with others. The National Institutes of Health says roughly a third of older adults report social isolation and loneliness, which increases their risk of dementia and premature death.

Clara Tarrago has been coming to the center weekly for more than a decade. While she is all smiles on the dance floor, the impact runs much deeper.

"Every single day, every single day of my life, I say thank you, thank you so much," Tarrago said.

For others, the center has become a daily lifeline. Aracely Juliet Pita, who lost her husband, said she now comes every day.

"After my husband passed away, I came here. And I come every day. I love this place," she said.

Gloria Perry said the friendships formed at the center make all the difference. "Once you get here, you're gonna have a smile on your face. Somebody is telling jokes. And that just lifts everybody up," Perry said.

Perry added that for many seniors, the center is the only place they have.

"Without this place, we would have nowhere to go. A lot of us are single. Their spouse has passed away. This place is uplifting for us. They're supportive," Perry said.

There are plans in place to expand the Collier Senior Center to meet the growing need. Those who want to help can visit collierseniorcenter.org to learn how to donate.

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