The Columbia (SC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, in partnership with St. John Baptist Church, South Carolina Thrive, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, hosted the Columbia Links Day of Health Resources and Information for Seniors in the Midlands on October 26, 2024. Over 300 seniors gathered for a transformative, day-long forum that covered essential topics on healthcare, financial security, and estate planning.
The forum was specially timed with Medicare open enrollment, offering seniors a unique opportunity for live discussions on rising costs in prescription medications and medical visits. Dr. Deborah Davis, a Columbia physician, and Tracy Threatt from Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina shared the latest on Medicare, Medicaid, and Medicare Supplemental Insurance, ensuring attendees were well-informed about new programs and coverage updates.
Megan Mollenhauer of SC Thrive provided critical resources to help seniors save on Medicare premiums, pay for home healthcare, and secure food assistance. SC Thrive’s on-site counselors, available through the Thrive Hub, helped participants complete applications and access eligible benefits, providing real-time support to those in need.
Judge Joseph Strickland, Richland County Master-in-Equity, educated attendees on heirs’ property issues and foreclosure prevention. Louise Johnson from the SC Department of Mental Health spoke about recognizing mental health challenges in seniors and teens, highlighting available services and resources.
Ben Duncan, South Carolina’s Chief Resilience Officer, joined by FEMA staff, provided direct assistance to residents affected by Hurricane Helene, addressing the disaster’s ongoing impacts. Additionally, Richland County
Chief Probate Judge Amy McCulloch offered a straightforward guide on wills and probate, helping participants plan for end-of-life arrangements and estate settlements. Columbia Links generously provided free wills vouchers from local attorneys to over 50 participants.
The event, now in its sixth successful season, was promoted through the Columbia Links call-in broadcast, WLINKS, as well as the Urban Scene on WFMV radio-FM, which aired four sessions covering health and financial topics. The forum reached hundreds through radio, social media, and word-of-mouth, reinforcing its commitment to community wellness and support.
The Columbia (SC) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated is a not-for-profit service oriented local affiliate of the National Organization of The Links, Incorporated. For more information on future events or resources, visit columbiasclinks.org.
