Kansas City Rakes Up Support for Seniors
As the crisp chill of autumn sweeps through Kansas City, it brings about the usual colorful spectacle of leaves falling from trees. While many of us may enjoy the picturesque sight, those leaves can pose a challenge for some of our community’s older residents. Fortunately, there’s a wonderful initiative here in town called KC Rakes, which has been making a significant impact for over two decades.
A Helping Hand During Fall
The mission of the KC Rakes program, run by the Shepherd Center of Kansas City, centers around a vital goal: keeping seniors safe and independent in their own homes. With the winter months just around the corner, it’s crucial to ensure that seniors’ yards are free from slippery leaves—an important step in preventing falls and accidents. Janet Baker, the Executive Director of the Shepherd Center, explained, “When leaves freeze and aren’t raked up, they can create an icy, trip hazard. This program not only helps clear yards but also promotes safety and health for our older adults.”
Last year saw a remarkable turnout, with over 300 volunteers joining hands to make a difference. However, according to Baker, this year, more hands are needed. “There is much more need than we can fulfill,” she expressed. Moreover, it’s important to note that in Jackson County, there are twice as many older adults living in poverty compared to the national average. Baker mentioned that around 80% of the 3,500 seniors they serve do not have a caregiver, relying heavily on community programs for assistance.
Join the Cause
Baker’s heartfelt message to the community is clear: “We are a community, and we need to care for each other. Truthfully, we need volunteers; we don’t have enough to meet the demand this year.” The upcoming weekends of November 1-2 and November 15-16 are crucial times when volunteers can come together to help rake the leaves of senior citizens. If you’re interested in lending a hand, you can reach out to Terry Rynard, the Volunteer Program Coordinator, by phone at 816-293-9593.
A Call for Support
While rallying for more volunteers, Baker also urged residents to pay attention to an important issue on the upcoming ballot. Jackson County Ballot Question No. 1 proposes the creation of a senior fund that would garner additional public funding to support services for older adults. If passed, Baker believes this initiative could generate between $7-9 million, benefiting around 50 senior service organizations in the region.
“We know that there needs to be a safety net for our seniors in Jackson County, and currently, there isn’t one,” Baker commented. She indicated that not being able to provide assistance is a heavy burden, stating, “It’s heartbreaking to tell someone in need that we cannot help them. It doesn’t need to be that way.”
Be Part of Something Bigger
This fall, as we enjoy the beauty of the season, let’s not forget those in our community who might need our help. By spending just a few hours raking leaves, we can bring a smile to a senior’s face while ensuring their safety and comfort. The KC Rakes program exemplifies how small acts of kindness can lead to significant changes in the lives of our older neighbors.
If you feel inspired to make a difference, don’t hesitate to reach out and become a volunteer. Together, we can make Kansas City a better place for everyone, especially for those who have paved the way for us. This season, let’s not just rake leaves—let’s also rake in some love and support for our cherished seniors!
