Florence County seniors kick off Thanksgiving Blessing project

The Senior Citizens Association of Florence County is celebrating its third Thanksgiving Blessing project with events planned across the county.

The first event will be Nov. 20 at Leatherman Senior Center in Florence where 250 members will enjoy a meal and entertainment.

This year, with its membership doubling from 2008, the association expanded its programming to include areas surrounding Florence.

“We’re trying to concentrate on smaller areas where seniors sometimes don’t get the services they need or have access to the services in Florence,” executive director Linda Mitchell Johnson said.

There will be an event for 150 Lake City senior members Nov. 23 at the Lake City Senior Center.

In addition to these dinners, 250 homebound seniors across the county will receive a Thanksgiving dinner delivered to their home.

Johnson said this year’s blessing was made possible through the overwhelming support and generousity of its sponsors.

“Our funding from United Way and our state funding are down this year because of the economy, so the community’s support was greatly appreciated,” she said.

The Thanksgiving Blessing project was first initiated by Florence City Councilman Bill Bradham and received immediate support from state Sen. Hugh Leatherman and businessman Bubby Floyd.

Florence County, the city of Lake City, the city of Florence, Dr. and Mrs. Edward Floyd nd Mr. and Mrs. Sherwin Welch, as well as other local supporters, made donations to this year’s project.

“It’s been tremendous. I’m so overwhelmed and happy for what we’re able to do this year,” Johnson said.

In addition to monetary donations, the Food Lion stores in the Florence district donated gift cards to be used for purchasing food and are urging sales associates to volunteer at the two senior center meals.

McCall Farms also contributed canned goods and other Thanksgiving trimmings to the project.

Senior Citizens Association annual memberships cost $25. Active membership is for any person 50 years of age and older. This membership includes use of the senior center, newsletters, the annual membership luncheon, special events and opportunities to participate in activities and classes at a reduced rate.

To sign up to be a member or to make a reservation for this year’s Thanksgiving Blessing events, call the Leatherman Senior Center at (843) 669-6761 or the Lake City Senior Center at (843) 394-2432.