Senior Gratitude Day at Jackson Medical Mall introduces an improved transportation system

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – Seniors across the state are celebrating their favorite teams and expanded transportation options at Jackson Medical Mall today.

A new collaboration increases mobility for older and disabled people.

The Lanier High School band got off to a great start at the fifth annual Senior Gratitude Day. More than 350 people over 65 took part in the annual fun day.

In conjunction with the celebration, the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation hosted a ribbon cutting to introduce the Central Mississippi Support and Outreach Program.

Through the collaboration of public and private organizations, more than 40 vehicles are provided to transport the elderly and disabled. They offer rides to medical appointments, shopping, and recreational outings.

“They come to your house and pick you up,” David Gorden said.

The 70-year-old from Jackson is confined to a wheelchair and uses the transportation system.

“Thank you, Jesus, so I can get out of the house,” Gorden said. “So I can get a ride, because I was just sitting there before I got a ride, you know.”

“The mission of the medical mall is to remove all barriers to accessing quality care,” said Fallon Brewster, JMMF chief planning and strategy officer. “And that’s why transportation is just one of our options.”

The event brings together community centers and residents across the state for a day of fun and cheering on their favorite teams.

“It’s a way to socialize, meet other people, just socialize and have community,” said Jerri Brown of the TL Love Community Center in Jackson.

The 77-year-old from Jackson represents her team, the Dallas Cowboys, at Senior Gratitude Day every year.

“I’ve been coming from the beginning and the reason I’m here is to meet other people and enjoy ourselves and the music band. Lanier’s band does a great job.”

There were also sessions on elderly scams, the impact of artificial intelligence and a healthy cooking demonstration.

To learn more about transportation for the elderly and disabled, call the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation at 601-982-8467 or visit www.jacksonmedicalmall.org.

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