Supporters of St. Francis Manor celebrated An Evening of Hope: Transforming Lives Together at Celebration Grove, commemorating its 50 years of providing affordable housing for seniors.
“In 2024, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of St. Francis Manor. It is so amazing to see how far we’ve come. Our founder, Frank Zorc, had a powerful vision. A place where limited income seniors could live comfortably, surrounded by friends, in a socially supportive community,” said Bonnie Matz, executive director.
“That vision became a reality in 1974 when St. Francis Manor welcomed its first resident. Today, we proudly have 120 residents, age 62 and older, who call St. Francis Manor home. We are so grateful you joined us tonight to celebrate St. Francis Manor. With your help, we can ensure this inspiring vision remains a source of hope for the future,” Matz added.
Guests enjoyed live music, a silent auction, a wine pull, and dinner catered by Wild Thyme Catering before hearing from Elaine Roberts, a St. Francis Manor resident, who provided a heartfelt testimonial about her life there. She had moved to Vero Beach just after the death of her son.
“This community has wrapped their arms around me,” said Roberts, adding that she has found a new family there.
She described the activities and events that are offered to engage residents, noting that people can be as involved as much or as little as they like.
Later, a video highlighted the organization’s history and their efforts to provide dignity and security to seniors.
“Over the 50 years, we’ve provided probably a thousand people homes that they would have probably not had,” said Maria Elena Kitchell, board president of the nonprofit.
She noted that especially during times like these, when there are severe housing shortages, they are able to provide those living on a fixed income with a home and a community of caring people.
“We provide an affordable, attractive, safe, socially supportive community where people care about one another,” said Kitchell.
She commented that they currently have a waitlist of more than 100 people in need of housing. To help meet the growing need, they are working on an expansion plan to add 33 additional units.
“It’s our vision, and it’s our hope that no senior on a limited income should be homeless. They shouldn’t be homeless in their golden years. They should have a safe place to call home,” added Kitchell.
By providing affordable, independent apartments to senior citizens in an attractive, safe and socially supportive environment, St. Francis Manor has significantly impacted the lives of numerous former and current residents. Its studio and one-bedroom apartments are available to limited-income seniors who can live independently.
For information, visit StFrancisManor.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
