Are you a family caregiver? Chances are, you may not even realize you are because you are simply doing what comes naturally for your family.
But the reality is that there are millions of people helping family members live their best life. This could include activities important for daily living such as bathing and dressing, paying bills, shopping and providing transportation. It also may involve emotional support and help with managing a chronic disease or disability.
President Joe Biden recently proclaimed April 2023 as National Care Workers Month and encouraged Americans to celebrate the contributions of care workers to our country.
“Across America, care workers help raise our children, assist seniors as they age with dignity, and support people with disabilities — giving families peace of mind and making it possible for millions of Americans to earn a paycheck while their loved ones are safe and secure,” said President Biden. “These unsung heroes strengthen our communities and form the backbone of our nation’s economy.”
All of us here at SYNERGY HomeCare want to shine a light on the 34.2 million Americans who have provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the last 12 months.
First things first: we applaud you. Family caregiving is one of the most stressful and rewarding roles that anyone may ever face. That’s why it’s so important that you take care of yourself as well.
In order to ensure you are providing the best possible care to your loved ones, pay attention to signs of caregiver stress and burnout such as:
If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to consider respite care. Companies like SYNERGY HomeCare can provide help and give you a much-needed break. Our team of specially trained, professional caregivers provide compassionate care to clients across the country.
We are deeply proud to be recognized this April by President Biden. Everyone in our company has an authentic desire to help people and make their lives fuller. Our caregivers positively impact the lives of the people they care for and their families because they are genuinely invested in the lives of their clients.
Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.
It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.
As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.
Life moves in one direction - forward. No matter your circumstances, SYNERGY HomeCare steps in with effective, comforting, life-affirming care that moves people emotionally and physically forward. From personal assistance and companionship to live-in and even family care respite. We provide full support for fuller lives. Our professional, trained, insured and background screened caregivers matched to your loved one's needs. Services include personal care assistance, companionship, meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation and errand assistance, light housekeeping and respite for family members. Free in-home consultation. No Contracts, Just Care.
SYNERGY HomeCare's dedication to providing compassionate and comprehensive home care services for seniors is truly commendable. Recognizing that individuals are happiest and healthiest in the comfort of their own homes, SYNERGY offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client.From hourly assistance to around-the-clock care, SYNERGY HomeCare ensures that seniors can confidently live life to the fullest, regardless of where they call home. Whether in a private residence, hospital, assisted living community, nursing home, or other care facility, their caregivers are there to provide support and companionship.One of the standout features of SYNERGY HomeCare's approach is their focus on making meaningful connections and promoting overall well-being. Their caregivers engage in supportive conversation, plan social outings, and encourage light exercise, helping seniors maintain a sense of independence and joy in their daily lives.SYNERGY HomeCare also understands that sometimes a little extra help can make all the difference. Their caregivers offer personal assistance with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing, support with housekeeping, and errand and transportation services, ensuring that seniors receive the support they need to thrive while maintaining their dignity and independence.Overall, SYNERGY HomeCare's commitment to providing personalized and compassionate care allows seniors to age in place with dignity and peace of mind, knowing that they are supported by a dedicated team of caregivers who truly care about their well-being.