Suwannee River Economic Council Inc

Overview

The Suwannee River Economic Council Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Florida, with a focus on providing assistance to disadvantaged communities through various social and economic programs. The organization operates primarily across ten counties in Florida, aiming to support individuals in overcoming poverty and achieving self-sufficiency.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Suwannee River Economic Council is to empower a community full of potential by educating and motivating current and future generations to discover and realize the dream of a comfortable and productive lifestyle. Their vision emphasizes helping clients to rise above poverty by discovering inner strength and courage to succeed.

Programs

The council offers a wide range of programs designed to address the needs of different demographic groups, including:

• Aging Services: These programs provide support to seniors in specific counties, offering services such as case management, companion services, emergency alert responses, homemaker assistance, home-delivered meals, personal care, respite care, specialized medical equipment, and education on nutritional benefits.

• Emergency Assistance and Self-Sufficiency: These services are available to individuals in need across several counties, providing emergency utility assistance, family self-sufficiency initiatives, and referrals to other social services.

• State Housing Initiatives Partnership Program (SHIP): This program assists with housing needs by offering emergency repairs, owner-occupied rehabilitation, and down payment and closing cost assistance for homeownership.

• Transportation Programs: The council provides public transportation services for the elderly and disadvantaged individuals, facilitating access to medical facilities, meal sites, and shopping areas.

Funding and Partnerships

The Suwannee River Economic Council receives funding from various sources, including the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging (Elder Options), and external corporate partners like Duke Energy Florida Inc. These partnerships enable the organization to administer essential programs and services effectively across its service areas.

Service Areas

The council operates primarily in the following counties: Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union. Each county may receive a unique set of services based on local needs and program availability.