Luncheon honors military caregivers in Gainesville

The Florida State University College of Social Work hosted a Military Caregiver Appreciation Luncheon Feb. 26 in Gainesville, Fla., to offer support to caregivers and to inform them about the services available through the Operation Family Caregiver program.

The Gainesville luncheon, which took place at Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill, was the second in the Military Caregiver Appreciation Luncheon Series that the college is hosting this year throughout the state.

During the luncheon, attendees learned about the free, confidential services that the program provides to caregivers of military service members and veterans through its Tallahassee branch on the FSU campus. Program Manager Margaret Ashmore and Caregiver Coach Wendy Turney presented an overview of the Tallahassee program.

In addition, College of Social Work Dean Jim Clark spoke at the event to honor the caregivers, recognize their hard work and dedication, and to show his commitment to the program.

“Witnessing the heartfelt gratitude that caregivers receive and share confirms the importance of the Operation Family Caregiver program,” Clark said.

The program’s FSU campus branch — a partnership between the College of Social Work and the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving — provides services all over the southeastern United States. With the support of FSU President John Thrasher, the luncheon series will continue through 2016 with visits to Jacksonville, Panama City and Pensacola.

Learn more about Operation Family Caregiver or contact Turney at (850) 645-0902.