Dear Jefferson County Citizens,
In the past, Jefferson Senior Citizens Center (JSCC) located at 1155 N Jefferson Street, Monticello, Florida, has offered local seniors meals services and engagement activities through funding from your federal government through the Older Americans Act (OAA) and your state government through the State of Florida General Revenue (GR). Because these funding sources come from taxpayer dollars, both the state and federal governments must ensure all partners who receive funding abide by all laws and rules. Local partners and providers must act with the utmost integrity, business acumen, and fiscal responsibility.
Due to numerous ongoing concerns including lack of proficiency in service delivery standards and management oversight, board operations, and financial challenges, the state has terminated its relationship with Jefferson Senior Citizens Center, Inc. Since September 8, 2025, the Area Agency on Aging for North Florida (d/b/a Advantage Aging Solutions), the Florida Department of Elder Affairs' contract management agent, has been serving Jefferson County's seniors with congregate meals, education, engagement activities, home assessments, home delivered meals, and wellness checks. State and Federal funding has not and will not stop. We look forward to transitioning to a new service location to continue the coordination of quality services and enhance program operations by January 26.
Florida's senior citizens are blessed to have the support of funding provided by all levels of government. Jefferson County's valued senior citizens must have a senior services provider who will wisely use the precious public funding to ensure access to reliable, high-quality services that promote health and independence. The changes to senior meal services and activities in Jefferson County already made reflect this commitment and our shared responsibility to steward public resources faithfully.
For now, be assured that there will be no interruption in services. Those who have been receiving meals will continue to do so through our home-delivered meal program for two more weeks. After that, a new congregate meal location will be in operation.
As the JSCC continues to work on a financial management plan for its facility, the State of Florida and its partners will work diligently to ensure uninterrupted service to our cherished community in Monticello. We will also continue to provide updates as the new meal site becomes operational. Please contact us if you have questions or need more information or are interested in enrolling in our programs.
If you or someone you know would like to become a client to receive services for eligible seniors, please call (850) 488-0055, ext. 231.
Sincerely,
Lisa L Bretz, Executive Director
info@advantageaging.org //850.488.0055 ext. 231
