Dear Seniors,
Winter is in full swing, and though it has been a cold season, we are reminded of the warmth and resilience of our community. Many of you have braved these freezing temperatures, and we hope you are staying safe and warm. Despite the extreme winter weather we have experienced this season, we are still a community that uplifts one another and always lends a helping hand.
Speaking of lending a helping hand, I want to sincerely thank our sister agencies, the Department of Public Works, Office of Unified Communications, the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs, and Serve DC for their incredible efforts to keep our city safe and functional during winter weather emergencies. Their dedication makes all the difference; from snow removal to ensuring essential services remain available and that streets are safe and clear, they have been pivotal in keeping us safe this winter.
Additionally, I would like to commend the team at DACL, who made sure seniors like you received much-needed services despite the snow. Your commitment to supporting our seniors during challenging times is inspiring. If you need DACL services during a snow emergency, please call our Information and Referral Assistance Unit at 202-724-5626, and they will be happy to serve you.
Although it is cold outside, February is the month of love, and our hearts are filled with warmth as we prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day! It brings me great joy to invite you to the second annual Red, White, and You celebration! This event is a testament to the love, community, and togetherness that bind us together. Join us for food, fun, dancing, and laughter on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. To make this event even more accessible, we are hosting this celebration at two locations:
- Deanwood Recreation Center (1350 49th St., NE)
- Edgewood Recreation Center (300 Evarts St., NE)
We look forward to seeing you at the celebration, so grab your friends and loved ones and join us for a love-filled day.
- To RSVP for Deanwood, visit: tinyurl.com/rwydeanwood25
- To RSVP for Edgewood, visit: tinyurl.com/rwyedgewoof25
While love is in the air, romance scams continue to rise. Romance scams are one of the most costly and devastating types of fraud. They can happen to anyone but often target older adults, taking advantage of their trust and emotions. According to the DC Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking (DISB), in 2023, 38 District residents reported falling victim to romance scams, collectively losing nearly $622,587.
DISB has identified some things to look out for and ways to protect yourself to avoid getting scammed.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Excuses to avoid in-person or video meetings.
- Request for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- Quick declarations of love or affection.
- Inconsistent stories that don’t match their profile.
Tips to Protect Yourself:
- Talk to trusted friends or family members about the situation.
- Slow down communication with the person if something feels off.
- Cut off all contact—block their number and report their profile.
- Never send money or personal information, no matter how convincing the story may seem.
For more tips on staying safe, or if you believe you have been targeted do not hesitate to contact DISB at 202-727-8000 for additional resources.
Thank you for being an essential part of our community. We are committed to ensuring that every senior in the District has access to resources, support, and opportunities to thrive in every season. Stay warm and safe and we look forward to seeing you at our second annual Red, White, and You celebration!
In Service,
Charon PW Hines
Director, Department of Aging and Community Living