Funding gets iPads to isolated seniors

ESTHER SHORT — A Caring Closet founders Sara Scheetz and Jodie Zelazny were worried about how seniors would cope in isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many may not have access to the technology they need to stay in touch with their families, as visitation to senior living communities was restricted. A Caring Closet is a nonprofit with a mission to provide gentle, used and durable medical equipment to those who need it at no cost. Scheetz, Zelazny and Jim Mains shared their idea to get devices such as iPads into the hands of these seniors with the Ed and Dolly Lynch Fund and Community Foundation of Southwest Washington. To start, the nonprofit was granted a $15,000 donation to buy 25 iPads. It was given $100,000 more to reach additional seniors, and so far has purchased more than 250 iPads. “When COVID-19 hit and long-term care facilities had to restrict all visitors except in end-of-life situations, the need we saw was family connection,” Scheetz said. “This gift will allow families to virtually communicate, hear each other’s voices while seeing smiles on their faces.” Learn more about the nonprofit at www.acaringcloset.org.