Donation Buys Time for Seniors Program

A senior outreach program that was imperiled by flagging finances got a boost this week: a $10,000 donation from South Coast Medical Center.

Virginia Schott, president of Laguna Beach Seniors Inc., said the support group will now be able to continue the outreach program into the coming year.

“I’m just so thrilled about it I could cry,” Schott said Thursday. “We have a good chance now.”

The $17,000-a-year program is run by social worker Sharon McNair, who makes home visits across the city to help link seniors with the services they need.

Last year, a $10,000 federal grant helped the senior group meet expenses, but that money will run out in July.

South Coast Medical Center announced Wednesday that the hospital will give $10,000 toward McNair’s salary.

“Sharon’s position is invaluable to the seniors in our community,” hospital President T. Michael Murray said in a statement. “She provides links to vital services, such as meal programs and household assistance, that offer extra care to seniors who have special needs with daily living.”

McNair, who works with about 95 clients, said she has received a rash of telephone calls since news of the program’s plight was published this week.

“I’m hoping,” McNair said. “With the donation from South Coast, that’s going to help it quite a bit.”