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.
Meet Wyella, an esteemed educator whose tenure in Miami-Dade County's education system spans over three decades. In addition to her teaching duties, she initiated various fundraisers to support students and families in need, leaving a lasting impact on the school community. Beyond the classroom, Wyella collaborated with community partners to enrich educational opportunities at Charles Drew Elementary. Through initiatives like uniform drives and programs to boost student test scores, her tireless efforts enhanced the school's environment. Moreover, Wyella assumed leadership roles in youth organizations like Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts, earning recognition as Ambassador of the Year at both state and federal levels.
Her transformative contributions were acknowledged by former President George Bush for her pivotal role in elevating Charles Drew Elementary to an A+ school.
Wyella's involvement with the Special Olympics resulted in a life-changing bond with her foster son, highlighting her unwavering commitment to making a difference beyond traditional educational realms.
She made the decision to pursue therapeutic foster care, recognizing the unique needs of children who have experienced trauma. While the path was undoubtedly trying at times, it offered Wyella the opportunity to provide her son with a forever home filled with care and compassion. Wyella's journey began with a toddler who had endured unimaginable hardships in an abusive home. His struggle to communicate and walk unassisted spoke volumes about his past. For years, she navigated a challenging custody battle until finally, at the age of eight, she was able to officially adopt him. Today, her son is a remarkable young man of twenty, possessing talents and strengths that have her beaming with pride. He is the love of her life, a beacon of hope and resilience in a world filled with challenges.
Wyella reflects on their journey together… I am filled with gratitude for the role he plays in my life. At seventy-five years young, our roles have shifted, and he now stands by my side, offering care and support as we navigate life's twists and turns together. Our journey is far from over, but through it all, one thing remains abundantly clear—love knows no bounds, and the bond we share transcends time and circumstance.
Jo-Ann's journey through life has been marked by resilience, dedication, and a deep passion for nursing. Starting as a Registered Nurse at Broward General Hospital, she pursued her Master's in Nursing at FIU, eventually becoming a Nurse Practitioner. Her career led her to a teaching opportunity, and she spent 33 fulfilling years as a Nursing professor, first at a community college in Jacksonville and later at Chamberlain University in Illinois. Unfortunately, Jo-Ann fell ill and had to relocate to Naples in order to accept assistance from her son. Jo-Ann returned home unaware that she would be met with a life of torment at the hands of her abusive son. Enduring unimaginable conditions, Jo-Ann's retirement became a living nightmare.
She was neglected inside the home and was forced to use the restroom outside.
To escape this prison, Jo-Ann sought refuge at the Baker Senior Center, finding solace in the supportive community. It was at the Baker Senior Center that Jo-Ann's life took a turn for the better. She sought help and was able to relocate again. Beverly's Angels was made aware of Jo-Ann's story, and at the age of 74, she found renewed hope and support. Recognizing her love for the color sage green, Beverly's Angels went above and beyond to provide her with towels and all kitchen essentials in her favorite color. This thoughtful gesture not only brightened Jo-Ann's surroundings but also uplifted her spirits, symbolizing a fresh start and a new beginning. With the compassionate assistance of Beverly's Angels, Jo-Ann continues to flourish in her safe and nurturing environment, embracing the opportunity to rebuild her life with dignity, resilience, and the unwavering support of her newfound community.
Carol grew up in a very tightknit family/ lots of cousins that she was very close to almost like siblings. Close relationship with Dad. She worked as a dispatcher for quite sometime. Was an in home nanny for several years in Naples
Carol was displaced from an apartment that she lived in for 20 years. The apartment became damaged after hurricane ian and she was told that she had to find temporary placement until the apartment was ready. Carol didn’t have any immediate family in the area and did not have the funds to support herself at a hotel. She reached out to the Baker Senior Center because she did not have any place to turn to and the shelter wasn’t a feasible option for her as a senior. Within a month, Carol was agreeable to move out to another part of Collier County in senior housing.
Success Story- Since moving Carol reports she has never felt more at home. She has become more social with neighbors and feels that she has a sense of community around her. She has even started walking half a mile, when she could barely make it to her mailbox before her move.
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.
