Snowflake Ball raises funds for Senior Companions in Knoxville

By Vivian Shipe KNOXVILLE, TN — Companionship. It’s something taken for granted by many, but for seniors who live alone, no friends, family, no neighbors to check on you ; no help with food or financial assistance, it can mean life or death. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 27 percent of elders in the United States live alone. They are more likely to be in poor health and have a shorter life span.& Programs like the CAC Senior Companion Program in Knoxville are working hard to lower that statistic. Mistress of Ceremonies Kim Olen, left, stands with Karley Harkins, Snowflake Ball event planner. Photo by Vivian Shipe Shown seated, Zelma Robinson, ETHRA vaccine coordinator and Barbara Kelly, CAC Executive Director. Photo by Vivian Shipe Alice Allen, CAC senior companion advisory board community representative arrives at the ball. Photo by Vivian Shipe CAC Office on Aging Director Dottie Lyvers welcomed the 500 attendees to the elegant Rothschild’s banquet facility. Photo by Vivian Shipe The program uses senior volunteers to go into the homes of the elders to support isolated adults free of charge. The volunteers help with light cleaning, meal prep, light chores, and offer friendship. They...