Local efforts helping seniors to survive—and THRIVE.

This year, the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization celebrates their 40th anniversary of dedicated service to our cherished senior community. In a recent conversation with Stephania Ward, Executive Director of the organization, we discovered not only a rich history but also a passionate commitment to providing essential services to our seniors and fostering a brighter future together.

The Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization has been a guiding light for our senior community since its inception on November 13th, four decades ago. Stephania shared about the organization’s remarkable journey and the dedication of its past directors who played a pivotal role in shaping the center into what it is today.

In the beginning, the center was located across the street from its current location in a log cabin building.  Thanks to the support of the community, they raised funds and constructed their facility used today, creating a warm and resourceful haven for all seniors. The center offers a diverse range of activities, including dominoes, quilting, arthritis exercise programs, arts & crafts, nutrition classes, special events, and (of course) the seniors favorite – bingo.  All activities are made possible through generous donations from individuals like you. They also provide a monthly events calendar available at the center, featuring live music and educational workshops, all designed to enrich the lives of seniors in the community.

At the heart of the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization is their mission to be a beacon of support for seniors, not only within the city, but also beyond its borders. Membership is open to everyone, and they extend a warm invitation to seniors from all walks of life to visit and participate in their programs. While they do request some information for reporting purposes, their primary aim is to serve as a resource for seniors–offering meals, activities, and a sense of belonging.

Stephania revealed a startling fact: one in four seniors live alone, and one in two of those living alone lack the income to afford their basic needs, such as toiletries, dinner ingredients, or pet food. Additionally, 10 million seniors in our nation face the threat of hunger. The Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization is dedicated to alleviating some of these challenges right here in our area. Stephania considers it a privilege to do this work every day alongside her staff and volunteers.  She loves being a part of the community by helping the seniors they serve. They provide daily free lunches, relying on the generosity of donations and volunteers. Currently, they are nourishing 177 homebound seniors, and 250 more visit the center weekly to share a meal and companionship.

Stephania underlines that their mission goes beyond providing meals and activities; it’s about creating a vibrant and caring community for seniors who often face isolation and loneliness. She also emphasized the importance of volunteers and donations. Every contribution matters, whether it’s an hour of volunteering, a small or large monetary donation, or a skill or talent shared with their seniors. They are actively seeking volunteers for various tasks, from assisting with food deliveries to leading groups and classes, and even minor maintenance work. Additionally, they rely on financial support to bridge the gap between the cost of their services and the reimbursements they receive. Any donations are wholeheartedly welcome. They even have an opportunity to sponsor a senior for a day, week, or a year.

Transportation remains an area where they are actively seeking to improve. While they are exploring options to collaborate with local transit services, they also hope a donor will come forward to help them acquire a van to pick up local homebound seniors who are unable to drive themselves, ensuring no senior is left without the essential services they provide.

To bolster their efforts, the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization has exciting plans. They are opening a resale store on February 1st, which will be onsite at the center.  It will provide affordable clothing and household items and assist in generating income to sustain their vital programs. They are currently accepting donations of clothing and household items to stock the resale store.

The organization has forged strong partnerships with local groups, organizations, and small businesses, including Liberty County, City of Cleveland, Entergy, Walmart, Heaven’s Army, Covenant with Christ, Calvary Baptist Church, North Cleveland Baptist Church, Area Agency on Aging, Meals on Wheels Texas, and Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston. They also collaborate with the Houston Food Bank to receive food donations, ensuring they can continue to offer healthy meals to all area seniors.

As our conversation concluded, Stephania shared her profound love for the Cleveland community and the deep sense of family she feels within it. She put emphasis on acknowledging and thanking the various organizations and individuals who support their mission.

Stephania invites the community to join them in making a difference. They welcome new small businesses, organizations, and volunteers willing to give their time, provide donations, or contribute in any way to their mission.

Their goal is to reach every corner of the Cleveland community, to let everyone know who they are, where they are located, and what they do on a daily basis.

To volunteer, make donations, or learn more about the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization, please visit them online at https://www.clevelandtexas.com/230/Senior-Citizens-Center or follow them on Facebook @ClevelandSeniorCitizensOrganization. You can also reach them directly at 281-892-1174 or visit in person at 220 Peach Ave, Cleveland, TX 77327.  Monday – Friday from 6am-2pm. Consider how you can volunteer or donate today and make a meaningful difference in the life of a senior!

Staff/Volunteer Picture

Back Row from Left to Right
Donna Grundy
Frankie Harrison
Tammy Austin
Stacy Olahan
Lucille Scyeeten
Mary Jackson
Darla Moore
Faye Carter
Marthe Crittenden
Dolores Espinoza

Front Row Center
Stephani Ward, Executive Director