The Council on Aging rang in the holiday season Nov. 20 at River House with “Christmas on the River.” The annual fundraising event supports COA’s Care Connection program, which provides St. Johns County seniors with many services they need in order to continue to enjoy independence and quality of life at home.
Attendees enjoyed a wine tasting, heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, live music and holiday shopping in the waterfront setting of River House in downtown St. Augustine.
This year marked the first time the event was held in person since pandemic-related closures began in 2020.
“The Christmas on the River event evokes the holiday spirit so well,” said Becky Yanni, COA’s executive director. “It is so festive and fun – and it is driven by a sincere wish to give back to our community’s elders and bring them comfort and joy during the holidays and all year long.”
COA’s Care Connection program is financed entirely through donations and fueled by the labor of COA volunteers from the community. Services provided include minor home repairs, lawn maintenance, wheelchair ramp construction, as well as assistance obtaining low or no-cost prescriptions, utility assistance, pet food, wheelchairs and other assistive devices.
Care Connection supports seniors in remaining in their homes where they are most comfortable, rather than being forced by circumstances to enter assisted living. The program provides crucial services for which no other funding sources exist.
River House is located at 179 Marine St., St. Augustine.
