dept of children & families economic self sufficency partner (ess)

MyAccess Florida

As an Economic Self-Sufficiency Partner, we stand beside seniors to secure the benefits and support that bring relief, stability, and peace of mind.

When bills start to pile up, food runs low, or medical needs feel overwhelming, no senior should have to face it alone.

Direct support: Our Advocates sit with seniors to complete applications, submit documents, and track cases from start to finish
Simplified process: We translate requirements, gather proofs, and handle renewals so no one gets lost in paperwork
Access to benefits: We connect eligible seniors to SNAP (food assistance), Medicaid, and cash support through DCF
Peace of mind for families & caregivers: Loved ones know there is a safety net and a team to call
Ongoing monitoring & follow-up: We watch for changes, appeal denials when needed, and keep benefits active

Personal Care Plan

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We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, who may be struggling with hygiene, forgetfulness, missed meals, or a lack of daily structure.
‍For seniors living in a care facility, who rely on a care team that may be falling short and need consistent oversight to ensure daily care is followed through.

Click here for personal care plan details

Home Care Plan

We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, who may be surrounded by clutter, safety hazards, spoiled food, or unclean conditions that go unnoticed.
For seniors struggling with house chores, who need light housekeeping or help coordinating trusted repairs — before small issues like clutter, broken appliances, or safety hazards become bigger problems.
For seniors living in a care facility, who need someone to watch for unsafe rooms, poor housekeeping, or changes in mobility that staff may overlook.

Click here for home care plan details

Auto Care Plans

We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, who are still driving but may forget maintenance, miss repairs, or need a trustworthy mechanic and a simple upkeep plan.
For seniors whose car sits unused, creating financial waste or safety concerns like expired tags, dead batteries, or blocked driveways.
For seniors ready to give up the keys, who need help arranging safe, dependable transportation for errands, appointments, and visits.

Click here for home care plan details

Pet Care Plans

We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, whose pets may go unwalked, miss feedings, or receive inconsistent care due to declining routines.
For seniors with physical limitations, who want to keep their pet but need help coordinating walkers, groomers, or vet appointments.
For seniors whose living situation is changing, who may need help rehoming, fostering, or finding temporary care for a beloved pet.

Click here for home care plan details

Personal Care Plan

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We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, who may be struggling with hygiene, forgetfulness, missed meals, or a lack of daily structure.
‍For seniors living in a care facility, who rely on a care team that may be falling short and need consistent oversight to ensure daily care is followed through.

Click here for personal care plan details

Home Care Plan

We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, who may be surrounded by clutter, safety hazards, spoiled food, or unclean conditions that go unnoticed.
For seniors struggling with house chores, who need light housekeeping or help coordinating trusted repairs — before small issues like clutter, broken appliances, or safety hazards become bigger problems.
For seniors living in a care facility, who need someone to watch for unsafe rooms, poor housekeeping, or changes in mobility that staff may overlook.

Click here for home care plan details

Auto Care Plans

We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, who are still driving but may forget maintenance, miss repairs, or need a trustworthy mechanic and a simple upkeep plan.
For seniors whose car sits unused, creating financial waste or safety concerns like expired tags, dead batteries, or blocked driveways.
For seniors ready to give up the keys, who need help arranging safe, dependable transportation for errands, appointments, and visits.

Click here for home care plan details

Pet Care Plans

We monitor personal habits and provide gentle reminders, so signs of neglect or confusion do not go unnoticed.

For seniors living at home, whose pets may go unwalked, miss feedings, or receive inconsistent care due to declining routines.
For seniors with physical limitations, who want to keep their pet but need help coordinating walkers, groomers, or vet appointments.
For seniors whose living situation is changing, who may need help rehoming, fostering, or finding temporary care for a beloved pet.

Click here for home care plan details

Prime Plan • $395 a month

Care. Protect. Support.
All in one place

The Prime Plan includes everything in our Care, Protect, and Support Plans — along with the core benefits every senior member aged 60 and older receives, like Senior Advocates, Quality of Life Checks, and Ombudsman support. This plan covers one senior.

What makes the Prime Plan different:

Unlimited check-ins during the first 3 months — up to 90 hours monthly to stay actively involved and informed
Support wherever the senior lives or visits (in Florida, nationwide soon)
Full access to all Care, Protect, and Support Services
Personalized oversight to monitor care, follow up on concerns, and reduce repeat problems, wherever the senior lives or visits
Priority response when a senior or family needs fast, hands-on coordination — like during hospital discharge or an unexpected crisis
One point of contact with a designated Seniors Advocate so family members do not get passed around or left in the dark
Case coordination across services, providers, and agencies, especially when care is falling through the cracks or no one seems to be communicating to everyone aligned
Monthly case review with updates, changes, and recommendations shared directly with loved ones, helpful when family members feel left out of the loop or unsure if anything is actually improving

Our most complete plan for seniors who need it all, and family members who want peace of mind knowing someone will always be there for their loved ones.

Click here for Prime Plan Membership Details

Prime Plan Membership Benefits

Care Services

For seniors who need safe, reliable support, and family members who want trusted help they can count on.

Personal Care – For seniors struggling with bathing, grooming, or daily routines who want to feel safe and respected at home
Home Care – When light chores, errands, or home safety become overwhelming or neglected
Auto Care – If a senior can no longer drive or needs help managing transportation or car-related issues
Pet Care – For seniors who want to keep their companion animals but need help with care or supplies

Learn more about our care services

Prime Plan Membership Benefits

Protect Services

For seniors facing abuse or loss, and family members who refuse to let harm go unanswered.

Protect (Self) – For seniors who feel mistreated, manipulated, or ignored and need someone to take them seriously
Protect Credit – When unusual charges or financial confusion raise red flags that need immediate attention
Protect Identity – If a senior has been scammed, received suspicious calls, or does not feel safe sharing personal information
Protect Property – When a senior’s home, valuables, or financial control are in danger of being taken, misused, or signed away under pressure

Learn more about our protect services

Prime Plan Membership Benefits

Support Services

For seniors going through tough times, and family members who need someone they can lean on, too.

Care Team – If care is unorganized, overwhelming, or falling apart, and family members need help coordinating next steps
Protect Team – For seniors already facing serious mistreatment, property loss, or manipulation, and need a stronger layer of defense
Support Team – For seniors facing loneliness, depression, or emotional stress who need consistent connection and care
Prevent Team – When family members want to stop a problem before it starts by addressing risks and patterns early

Learn more about our support services

Add-On Access (as needed)

Care Add-Ons: Access extra services like additional appointment companions, personal care assistance, or help during transitions — available when more hands-on support is needed
Protect Add-Ons: Add legal coordination, financial monitoring, or identity protection if the situation calls for stronger safeguards
Support Add-Ons: Expand emotional care, counseling, or tech support when ongoing stress, loss, or isolation requires more consistent attention

All add-ons are available at reduced rates for Prime members when additional help is needed beyond what is already included.

Have questions about Prime Plan, visit our common questions

Prime Plan has it all

When safety, care, and peace of mind matter most, the Prime Plan brings it all together — for seniors who need more than just one kind of help, and family members who will not settle for less.

Join today and get the full team behind you: care, protection, and support in one trusted place.

Flex Plan / Pay-As-You-Go

Pay for what the senior needs, only when needed
Full Access: Care Team, Protect Team, and Support Team
Hours: Unlimited time, attention, and follow-up
Eligibility: Seniors 60 and older living in Florida
Senior's Location: Anywhere the senior lives or visits
Plan Covers: 1 Senior Member

Some seniors only need help once in a while. Others want to avoid monthly commitments but still get serious support. The Flex Plan gives full access to our Care, Protect, and Support services.

No contract. Cancel anytime. Change plans with no penalty.‍

Click here for Flex Plan Membership Details

Care Services / 5 hours total per service

Flat Fee

Reliable care oversight for daily needs, on your terms

Personal Care Coordination

$95 / request

Home Care Setup

$125 / request

Auto Care Help (mechanic, DMV)

$85 / request

Pet Care Arrangements

$75 / request

Transition Support (moving, discharge)

$150 / setup

End-of-Life Planning Referrals

$95 / request

Learn more about our care services

Protect Services / 5 hours total per service

Flat Fee

Fraud, abuse, or property loss handled with real follow-through

Identity Protection Support

$85 / request

Credit & Property Safety Review

$115 / request

Report Mistreatment & Get Results

$0 / request

Legal Advocate Coordination

$125 / request

Financial Advocate Coordination

$125 / request

Learn more about our protect services

Support Services / 5 hours total per service

Flat Fee

For emotional support and guidance through hard times

Advocate Outreach & Check-In

$85 / request

Ombudsman Support (care facilities)

$115 / request

Emotional Support & Coping Help

$0 / request

Family Guidance or Crisis Support

$125 / request

Financial Advocate Coordination

$125 / request

Learn more about our support services

Have questions about Flex Plan, visit our common questions

Long-Term Care / At Home or Care Facility

The Long-Term Care benefits help seniors who need daily support with activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or managing medications. Services can be provided at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing facility.

Why it matters

For many seniors, the cost of long-term care is overwhelming and often forces impossible choices between safety and independence.

Over half of U.S. seniors will need some form of long-term care at home or facility, in their lifetime
Roughly 3,885 seniors are in long-term care facilities, while more than 2,600 receive care to stay in their own homes through county-supported services
Without coverage, nursing home or assisted living costs can exceed $9,000 per month in Florida
Families often deplete savings or take on debt to provide necessary care, leaving some to face financial hardship
Access to this program keeps seniors safe without sacrificing financial stability and helps prevent short-term crises from becoming long-term hardships

What it covers

Long-Term Care offers a range of options designed to meet each senior’s unique needs, from full-time medical support to help with daily living at home:

Nursing Homes: 24/7 skilled nursing and medical support.
Assisted Living Facilities: Housing with help for daily activities like meals, bathing, and medication reminders
Home Care Services: Care provided in the senior’s own home, including personal care, homemaking, and therapy
Adult Day Health Care: Supervised programs offering meals, activities, and health monitoring during the day
Respite Care: Short-term relief for family caregivers while ensuring seniors receive proper support
Hospice Services (when eligible): Compassionate end-of-life care focused on comfort and dignity

Together, these services give seniors the right level of care at the right time—whether they remain at home, move into a supportive community, or need full nursing care.

Who qualifies

(Eligibility Requirements)
‍
Eligibility for Long-Term Care in Florida is based on health, financial, and personal criteria, including these key thresholds:

Single Applicant:
- Up to $2,000 in countable assets
- Income up to $1,149 per month
Married — Both Applying:
- Combined assets up to $3,000
- Combined income up to $1,552 per month
Married — One Applying:
- Applicant: up to $2,000 in assets
- Community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in assets (Community Spouse Resource Allowance)
- Only the applicant’s income is counted, but the non-applicant spouse may receive a monthly allowance (about $2,555) to cover living expenses

Eligibility limits change yearly. Our Advocates guide you step by step.

We can help you apply

As a Dept of Children & Families – Economic Self-Sufficiency Partner (ESS), this is a free service for our senior members.

The application process can feel overwhelming, but our Advocates walk with seniors, their family members or caregivers every step of the way.

Documents needed: Proof of income, bank statements, medical records, and identification
Doctors’ role: Physicians provide assessments verifying medical need for long-term care
Timeframe: Approval may take weeks to months depending on case complexity
Our role: We ensure forms are complete, deadlines are met, and seniors are not left waiting without guidance

become a member

• Quality of Life Checks / $25,000 Program Grant

Grant Awarded - January 2024
(Formerly Seniors HelpDesk)

Purpose: Uncover mistreatment: neglect, abuse, fraud
‍Location: In-person visits conducted for senior in Broward County
‍Eligibility: Open to seniors referred by family, caregivers, or themselves
‍What is Included: A full well-being check: mood, safety, hygiene, social connection, and signs of neglect
‍Cost: $0 — No cost to the senior or family
‍Led By: Trained Senior Advocates who assess, listen, and take action

‍

Quality of Life Check

Personal visits that prioritize safety, dignity, and peace of mind

Our Quality of Life Check program ensures that seniors are not just seen but truly cared for. Through thoughtful, one-on-one visits, our trained Senior Advocates assess key areas of daily living, emotional well-being, hygiene, safety, and connection.

Whether at home or in a care facility, these visits help identify concerns early, support seniors' independence, and offer families the peace of mind that someone is checking in regularly — not to judge, but to care.

Why it matters

Neglect and declining quality of life often go unnoticed until it is too late. Regular check-ins can make the difference between early support and a crisis.

1 in 10 seniors experiences some form of elder abuse — most cases go unreported or underreported
More than 40% of seniors report feeling lonely, which is linked to higher risk of dementia and decline in health
Unseen neglect contributes to falls, malnutrition, and hospitalization including care facilities and medical center visits
Over 60% of seniors who experience abuse live in private homes, not institutions

This is more than a visit. It is peace in a doorway, care in a conversation, and dignity in every detail we don’t overlook.

Who truly benefits

Whether facing physical decline, emotional distress, or simply the risks of being overlooked, this program makes sure no senior’s needs go unseen as they age — at home or in a care setting.

Seniors living alone with few (or no) regular visitors to check on their well-being
Older adults in care facilities whose conditions may be changing without notice
Those experiencing changes in hygiene, mood, or daily routines that family may not be aware of
Seniors at risk of neglect, isolation, or emotional withdrawal — especially after loss or life transitions
Families who live far away and need a trusted set of eyes and ears to make sure their loved one is safe and supported
Seniors who may be quiet, private, or hesitant to ask for help — but still need someone paying attention

How it works

Referral & Intake: Seniors are referred by loved ones, caregivers, or self-referral. Priority is given to those with limited support or visible signs of decline.
Scheduling a Visit: A Seniors Advocate sets up an in-home or virtual visit based on the senior’s comfort and availability
One-on-One Observation: We assess the senior’s environment, hygiene, mood, and condition — watching for early warning signs
Compassionate Conversation: We talk with the senior, listen for concerns, and take note of any unspoken needs or changes
Family or Follow-Up Action: If needed, we notify loved ones, connect with resources, or report serious concerns — always prioritizing the senior’s well-being
Ongoing Support: We stay involved, offering future check-ins, updates, and continued advocacy as needed

Get Started

A simple visit can prevent a serious setback. The Quality of Life Check program brings trained Advocates into seniors’ homes or care environments to observe, connect, and respond with care and attention.

If you are concerned about yourself, a loved one or senior facing hardships, and want an experienced set of eyes checking in, now is the time to act. Referrals are always open. Request a visit today — our team is standing by, ready to help.

• 40 Chef Meals @ Home / $10,000 Program Grant

Grant Awarded - August 2024

Purpose: End nutrition neglect for seniors 60+ in Broward County
Location: Meals cooked in the senior’s private home
Eligibility: 40 seniors selected on a first-come, first-serve basis
What is Included: Up to 40 personalized, chef-prepared meals
Cost: $0 — The 40 seniors will pay nothing for the chef’s time, expertise

Chef Meals @ Home

This at-home initiative not only addresses nutrition gaps but also fosters personal connections between chefs and seniors, making every meal an opportunity to prioritize health and comfort

Our "40 Seniors / 40 Chef Meals" Pilot Program brings chef-prepared, nutritious meals directly into the homes of seniors. By focusing on fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients tailored to individual dietary needs and budgets, the program promotes healthy eating, reduces malnutrition, and supports overall well-being.

In partnership with medical professionals and culinary experts, we tailor each meal to enhance the nutritional profile essential for seniors. Our program not only addresses the need for increased protein but also caters to dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring a balanced approach to healthy aging.

Why it matters

Poor nutrition is one of the most overlooked health risks for older adults. It contributes to:

50% of seniors being at risk for malnutrition, even those overweight
1 in 3 hospitalizations involving malnourished patients over 65
A 300% higher risk of death for malnourished seniors compared to well-nourished peers

Our initiative fights back. The "40 Seniors / 40 Chef Meals" program provides:

Personalized, in-home chef-prepared meals
Nutrition tailored to health conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, and recovery from or managing chronic illness
Dignity and independence, helping seniors feel in control of their health and food choices, again

This is more than a meal. It is strength on a plate, care in a skillet, and comfort at the kitchen table.

Who truly benefits

Whether managing a chronic condition, recovering from an illness, or striving to maintain independence, this program ensures every meal supports seniors' health, diet and nutritional intake as they age at home.

Seniors recovering from surgeries or illnesses who need specialized nutrition for faster healing
Those with limited mobility or physical challenges that make meal preparation difficult
Seniors living alone who struggle to shop, plan, or cook balanced meals consistently
Individuals managing conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure requiring careful dietary adjustments
Seniors seeking to improve energy levels and overall quality of life through better eating habits
Caregivers looking for trusted meal support to ensure their loved ones receive proper nutrition

How it works

Registration: Seniors are selected on a first come first serve basis, prioritizing those in need of nutritional support
Meal Planning: Chefs consult with each senior to design meals that suit their health requirements and preferences
Grocery Shopping: Seniors can choose to shop themselves or have the chef handle the shopping, with reimbursement for groceries
In-Home Cooking: Chefs visit seniors' homes weekly to prepare meals, ensuring they’re fresh and customized
Weekly Delivery: Each senior receives seven days’ worth of meals each week, cooked and ready to enjoy
Completion: After 40 days, seniors receive guidance to maintain their improved nutrition through easy meal plans

Get started

Poor nutrition significantly impacts seniors, leading to health complications like muscle loss, weakened immunity, and increased hospitalizations.

Our "40 Seniors / 40 Chef Meals" initiative addresses those challenges by delivering personalized, nutrient-rich meals that promote healing, strength, and vitality. It also helps seniors regain confidence in managing their diet and nutrition independently.

We are accepting seniors but have limited spots, so sign up today before registration closes.

Food Assistance / (SNAP) Benefits

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is monthly benefits to buy healthy food at grocery stores, farmers markets, or via delivery.

Why it matters

1 in 14 seniors in Florida struggles with food insecurity
Poor nutrition increases health risks
SNAP stretches tight budgets
Helps seniors eat well, stay strong, and maintain dignity

What it covers

Fresh fruits & vegetables
Meat, poultry, fish
Dairy & eggs
Bread, cereals, grains
Seeds & plants for growing food at home

Who qualifies

(Eligibility Requirements)

Single: Income up to ~$1,580/month
Married: Income up to ~$2,137/month
Other factors: Housing, utilities, medical expenses

Eligibility limits change yearly. Our advocates guide you step by step.

We can help you apply

As a Dept of Children & Families – Economic Self-Sufficiency Partner (ESS), this is a free service for our senior members.

Documents: Income proof, household expenses, ID, residency
Process: Complete forms, calculate expenses, submit application
Timeframe: ~30 days
Our role: Answer questions, troubleshoot, ensure benefits

become a member

Medicaid for Seniors / Health & Medical Coverage

Health coverage for doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and long-term services.

Why it matters

Nearly 70% of seniors need ongoing health services
Medicare doesn’t cover everything
Medicaid prevents delayed or skipped care
Provides stability and avoids medical debt

What it covers

Doctor visits, preventive screenings
Hospital care & surgeries
Prescriptions
Home health & personal care
Nursing home/assisted living care when needed

Who qualifies

(Eligibility Requirements)

Single: ~$1,150/month; ~$2,000 in assets
Married (both): ~$1,550/month; ~$3,000 in assets
Married (one): Community spouse ~$158,000; non-applicant allowance ~$2,550

Eligibility limits change yearly. Our Advocates guide you step by step.

We can help you apply

As a Dept of Children & Families – Economic Self-Sufficiency Partner (ESS), this is a free service for our senior members.

Documents: Income proof, bank statements, medical records, ID
Doctors’ role: Physician assessments
Timeframe: Weeks to months
Our role: Complete forms, meet deadlines, keep you informed

become a member

Temporary Cash Assistance / (TCA) Cash Payments

TCA provides short-term financial support to seniors who are raising or caring for minor children in their household, helping cover essential living costs for both the senior and the children.

Why it matters

Seniors raising children often face dual financial pressures: their own needs plus the costs of childcare, food, and school supplies
Unexpected expenses like medical bills, housing costs, or transportation can create serious hardship
TCA helps seniors maintain financial stability, ensuring both they and the children in their care are safe, healthy, and supported

What it covers

Rent or housing costs
Utilities and household bills
Food and groceries for seniors and children
Transportation to school, medical appointments, or essential activities
Basic living expenses for household upkeep

Who qualifies

(Eligibility Requirements)

Single Senior with minor children: Monthly income of about $241 or less may qualify
Married or multi-adult household: Limits adjusted based on household size and number of children
Other Factors: Must demonstrate financial hardship, limited resources, and responsibility for minor children in the household

Eligibility limits change yearly. Our Advocates guide you step by step through the application.

We can help you apply

As a Dept of Children & Families – Economic Self-Sufficiency Partner (ESS), this is a free service for our senior members.

Documents: Proof of income, rent/mortgage, bills, ID, and proof of guardianship or custody of children
Application process: We assist with completing forms, submitting documentation, and tracking application status
Timeframe: Typically 30–60 days, depending on case complexity
Our role: Support seniors throughout the process, ensuring they and their children receive benefits as quickly as possible

become a member

Get Started

At Seniors In Distress, as a Dept of Children & Children, (DCF) – Economic Self-Sufficiency (ESS) Partner, if you qualify, we make sure you get the benefits you need. No senior should go without food, care, or essential support. We remove delays, guide you every step of the way, and help you access programs quickly so you can focus on your health, safety, and peace of mind.

Become a Member for $0

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Thank you!
Your submission has been received.

The information you provided helps us understand the current situation and how we may be able to assist you or someone you care for or concerned about.

A Seniors Advocate is now reviewing your submission and will follow up within 24–48 hours with guidance, resources, or support.

We know it takes strength to speak up, and we want you to know that we are here to listen, help, and stand with seniors, family members, caregivers, and concerned individuals.

If you need to reach us sooner, please call 954-391-5676 or email us directly at report@seniorsindistress.org

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