Burlington Review

Residents can learn about numerous services and resources offered by Burlington County and other government agencies, obtain free medical screenings, and enjoy a free lunch during the upcoming Burlington County Senior Expo.

The annual expo is returning for its 22nd year on June 6 from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Masonic Village Fellowship Center, 1114 Oxmead Road, Burlington Township. It is organized by the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office, Burlington County Commissioners, and Burlington County Office on Aging to give seniors and other local residents access to information and resources during a fun afternoon event.

“Residents of all ages make Burlington County their home because of the activities, programs and businesses we have here, so it’s important to be able to easily access information about all the available programs and resources that can benefit them and their families,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “The Senior Expo is the perfect place to learn about the services offered by Burlington County and our many community and State partners.”

Burlington County Sheriff James Kostoplis said the expo provides a clearinghouse of information that is useful for seniors and residents of all ages.

“The Senior Expo brings together dozens of agencies and organizations whose representatives can answer questions on all kinds of topics, ranging from home security, tax relief programs, health care, nutrition, transportation, and recreational opportunities,” said Sheriff Kostoplis. “It’s always very informative and we’re excited to host the event and have the opportunity to meet and assist our residents.”

Expected participants in this year’s expo include various state and county agencies, social services providers, health providers, representatives from New Jersey Superior Court, as well as groups such as the Alzheimer’s Association, Brain Injury Alliance, and Friends of Parkinson's Disease.

Residents can take a tour of the Masonic Home’s campus facilities. A county-sponsored free lunch will be available to the first 500 senior citizens who attend.

The Burlington County Sheriff’s Office Community Services Unit will be on-site to make senior identification cards for residents who need one. These cards can serve as a secondary form of photo identification listing important information such as emergency contacts, allergies or illnesses, living wills, and organ donor information.

The Community Services Unit will also create veteran identification cards for attendees who qualify. These cards can serve as proof of military status when seeking discounts or benefits from stores or restaurants. Veterans seeking an ID card should bring their DD214 discharge papers along with primary photo identification such as a driver’s license.

In addition to making ID cards, the Sheriff’s Community Services Unit will collect non-activated cell phones and chargers for its 911 Cell Phone Program. Collected phones will be reprogrammed to call 911 exclusively; they will then be distributed for free to seniors for emergency use both inside and outside their homes.

The Sheriff’s Office will also provide information about their free home security inspections for seniors or residents with disabilities. During these inspections specialists evaluate homes making recommendations for safety or security improvements or modifications. Some security items including smoke detectors or door locks may be provided at no charge. Residents can register for inspections by calling 609-265-5796.

“Keeping Burlington County residents safe is our top priority,” said Kostoplis. “We hope as many residents as possible will come out and learn more about the resources available for them and their families.”