FCS Giving Tuesday

There are hundreds of client stories that demonstrate the critically needed help FCS provides, often in partnership with other community-based services. Together, we help achieve small successes and life-changing transitions. These are just two of those stories.

Roseann is 70-years-old and legally blind. As a result of her impaired vision, she has difficulty taking care of her basic needs. When Adult Protective Services (APS) was contacted by a friend concerned with Roseann's health and safety, social workers soon realized that Roseann was unable to adequately take care of her herself and was falling behind in paying her bills. In response, Roseann was enrolled in FCS's Representative Payee to ensure that her bills were paid on time. Rep Payee manages the finances of those who are unable to do so for themselves due to a physical, developmental or mental health disability. Roseann also began receiving home care through FCS Home Care Services and her social worker coordinated assistance with the Monmouth County Association for the Blind and Meal on Wheels. In addition, a social worker helped Roseann complete the daunting application for Managed Long-Term Supports & Services (MLTSS), which provides access to an extensive range of services for medically and financially eligible individuals that would otherwise be unaffordable. So instead of suffering in silence, Roseann is now connected to several FCS programs and other support services that are helping to improve her quality of life and keeping her safe and independent at home.

Tom is 85-years-old and living with multiple chronic conditions. After Tom missed several medical appointments and was spotted wandering around his community unattended, a concerned friend contacted APS for help. Tom's son, who is his primary caregiver, tried to care for his dad but was overwhelmed. The good news is that Tom was already enrolled in MLTSS, giving him access to a multitude of services. But Tom needed more comprehensive care and a higher level of supervision than he was getting. His APS social worker introduced Tom and his son the Beacon of Life, P.A.C.E program, which provides all-inclusive care for the elderly to ensure an individual's health and safety in the community for as long as possible. Upon visiting the program, Tom and his family agreed that Beacon of Life could provide the level and consistency of care Tom needed to remain safely in his own home. As a result, Tom has adjusted well to the changes in his life and, with help, hopes to remain home for a longer period of time than expected.