Our essentials for Seniors Program is generously supported by the Moorings Park Foundation. With a rich tradition and history, the residents initiated their own foundation 27 years ago, spanning all three campuses of Moorings Park. These residents actively contribute to the funding of seniors, paying it forward to their peers in a community that is in dire need of support.
In 2022, we were grateful to receive our first grant from the Moorings Park Foundation. We are pleased to share that not only was the grant renewed in 2023, but the foundation also generously increased their support. This continued commitment allows us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of seniors in our community, and we are deeply appreciative of the Moorings Park Foundation's ongoing dedication to our program.
WHAT WE GIVE
Seniors possess unique needs, where the significance of small details cannot be overlooked. At Beverly's Angels, we are dedicated to addressing these needs by providing the essentials that transform a house into a home. Our commitment extends to supplying all necessary items for the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, offering brand new items in their preferred colors—soft, cozy, and durable—demonstrating our profound appreciation and recognition.
Engaging in open-ended conversations allows us to discover their preferences, including their favorite colors and things they cherish. When we gift them essentials in their preferred color, it communicates a genuine care and consideration for their individuality. Recognizing the importance of enabling them to pull themselves up or push off in their private spaces where they dream sweet dreams, this subtle gesture provides the independence they both deserve and yearn for.
The preservation of a sense of independence is crucial for the mental and overall well-being of seniors, who now include Baby Boomers alongside the Silent generation in our senior population. Acknowledging their unfamiliarity with seeking assistance, we understand the potential feelings of shame and unworthiness that may arise when expanding their resources. Our approach is centered on empowering them to feel like they are helping themselves, avoiding any perception of receiving a handout.
When we refer to "the little things," we mean gestures like presenting our renowned "tub of bubbles," filled with all the cleaning supplies they need. This thoughtful gift provides an instant sense of ownership and pride, allowing seniors to maintain their dignity. We recognize that time is one of their most precious resources, and our efforts aim to enhance their quality of life and well-being.
One of Beverly's favorite phrases was "getting old isn't for sissies." Collaborating with the Moorings Park Foundation allows us to bring peace and gratitude to those who have shaped our generation.
Mary and her husband were a referral from the Hunger and Homeless Coalition (HHC). After a detailed intake with Mitch, their case manager, we gifted our Welcome Home Bundles for the Kitchen, Bed, Bath, Closet, Pantry and Cleaning cabinet. Outfitting her home in the couples favorite color blue, Mitch picked up and delivered our essentials. Nine months later, Mary wanted to share her story and meet the Angels of Beverly's Angels.
We received a grant from the The Mooring Park Foundation for $25,000 last year. Mary and her husband were one of the first benefactors of this incredible grant focusing on senior care. Thankfully, The Foundation had a special interest in our senior program at Beverly's Angels and wanted to interview a recipient. HHC is also a grant benefactor from The Foundation, so we thought let's meet Mary and get her story told.
At 68 years old, Mary and her husband were suddenly homeless. They lived for a year and a half under an abandoned carport. Mary stated. "It was either very hot or very cold depending on the weather." HHC started working with the couple and found a small cottage in East Naples. When moving day arrived, Mitch appeared with our Welcome Home Bundle. Mary tearfully revealed how much shame and worthlessness came with being homeless; they both felt defeated and thought there was no help for them. When Mitch started to unload her new essentials and Mary saw the beautiful sea of blue as she entered her new home, she finally started to feel like their lives were going to be ok.
Mary and her husband are now proud of their new home; she has collected her own blue items for decor and says she lives in the cutest, little cottage. Her and her husband work full time and no longer are in need of any financial assistance.
January 28th of this year, Milton arrived at the Collier County Homeless pit count to give back and volunteer. As he embraced our Angel Daily, he whispered to her, “I am here, happy and ready to give back because of you.” Daily fought back the tears as he walked away. “I will never forget any of you or that day I was showered with love.”
On November 6, 2020, Milton received our first Welcome Home Bundle and the Ritz Carlton Experience we eagerly wanted to share with him. Nine Angels carried our household bundles for the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, pantry, and closet, along with a tub of cleaning supplies, as they walked into Milton’s brand new home. Speechless, Milton watched the ladies set up his home with love and kindness. Once his brand new bed arrived, tears began to stream down Milton’s face. As an Angel made his bed with the softest of blankets and fluffiest of pillows, Milton could not put his emotions into words.
A huge shout out to Mitch Watson, case manager from the Hunger and Homeless Coalition, for taking such good care of Milton while finding him a place to live. We would also like to thank Lorna McClain, Director of the Food Assistance Program at St. Matthew’s House, for providing all the fresh, frozen, and non-perishable foods to stock his pantry, fridge, and freezer during move in day. In addition, we can’t forget to thank Angel Diana Moore for delivering fresh food to Milton for the first two months while he was getting back on his feet.
Today, Milton attends church, has a full-time job and is not on any financial assistance. Most importantly, Milton was inspired to take care of himself and seek the mental health counseling he desperately needed. A transplant from Plant City, Florida, Milton arrived in Collier County in a robe, a worn out pair of jeans, and in poor hygiene. His first night here, Milton slept on the bus stop bench in front of our Police Station. After two years on the streets, Milton began his journey back into productive society.
We are very proud that 100% of those we gift our Welcome Home bundles stay in their homes. Our bundles are helping people break the poverty cycle. Our recipients are living independently and thriving. Thank you Milton for setting the standard of success on day one for Beverly’s Angels.
Manny, a 69-year-old senior, found himself facing unexpected challenges after the passing of his beloved wife. For years, they had been a double income family, comfortably navigating life together. However, her sudden departure left Manny grappling with the daunting task of covering all the bills on his own.
As Manny struggled to make ends meet, he found himself falling short on some payments, teetering on the brink of financial instability. That's when Beverly's Angels stepped in, offering a lifeline through their Rent Relief Resources program. With their assistance, Manny was able to regain his financial footing and breathe a sigh of relief.
Beverly's Angels didn't stop there. Recognizing that Manny's home had become dated and unkempt without his wife's presence, they extended their support to brighten his surroundings. Bundles for the kitchen and bathroom infused his home with a pop of color—yellow, his wife's favorite, reminiscent of the beautiful Florida sunshine they once enjoyed together.
With new towels and kitchen supplies in tow, Manny felt a renewed sense of purpose and hope. He no longer needed assistance and began to thrive in his revitalized surroundings, a testament to the transformative power of community support.
Manny's story serves as a poignant reminder of the impact we can make when we come together to uplift and support those in need. At Beverly's Angels, we remain committed to providing assistance and bringing rays of sunshine into the lives of individuals like Manny.
Thank you for your continued support, as it enables us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors like Manny.
A Journey of Escape, Hardship, and the Power of a Helping Hand
Faith was in the checkout line at HomeGoods, selecting items for the newest recipient, Esther, when she unexpectedly crossed paths with a familiar face.
"You're An Angel!!"
was all Faith heard, and she looked up at the woman with curious eyes. It was Svetlana, the daughter of a past recipient. Beverly's Angels had changed the trajectory of their lives, and Svetlana was beaming with pride.
Their journey had been marked by resilience, having fled an unimaginable war, with Natalia's husband remaining in Ukraine to fight. Natalia fled with her two daughters and two granddaughters and hoped for a better life here in the states. At 65 years old, Natalia spoke no English and had left behind her familiar life, including loved ones and friends. Once she arrived, Natalia had nowhere to turn. She was grateful to get out of her country alive, yet unaware of her next step to protect and support her family.
The Collier Resource Center was able to provide a home for Natalia and her family. Once that was secured, the CRC reached out to Beverly's Angels with a list of essentials that were needed to make their house a home.
When Natalia received new clothes from Beverly's Angels, her joy was palpable, especially as her daughters revealed her love for fashion. Beverly's Angels also provided the family with clothing and a comprehensive kitchen, bedroom, and bath bundle. Knowing Natalia's passion for baking, they ensured she had everything she needed to indulge her love for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and brownies. The pantry was stocked to perfection, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity in their new home. Additionally, Natalia's granddaughter's favorite color, lavender, adorned her bedding, adding a personal touch to their new surroundings.
Now, thriving with a full-time job at HomeGoods and caring for her mother with pride. Svetlana expressed her gratitude for the support received during such a challenging time, sharing the transformation in her mother's health thanks to the care provided by Beverly's Angels. It was a touching reminder of the impact of kindness and community support during times of adversity.
Thanks to our rigorous application, vetting, and follow-up processes, we are delighted to announce a remarkable achievement – a 100% success rate for seniors we have housed in maintaining stable housing and remaining in their homes.
