The organization marked the occasion by distributing FODAC-donated mobility equipment to Vietnamese veterans.
On Veterans Day, First Senior Center of Georgia hosted a special event to support its senior community, many of whom are veterans who have resettled in the U.S. through the Special Release Reeducation Center Detainee Resettlement Program. This event honored their contributions and recognized their journeys.
Thanks to a generous donation from Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, the center distributed essential mobility aids, including wheelchairs, walkers and canes to seniors in need. These aids support seniors in navigating daily life with greater ease, dignity and independence, enhancing their quality of life.
This effort aligned with FSCofGA’s vision of a vibrant community where Vietnamese and minority seniors find belonging, receive excellent care and enjoy fulfilling lives in their golden years.
Supporting the senior community
Von Tran, executive director of First Senior Center of Georgia, and her staff are dedicated to assisting Vietnamese and other minority seniors. Her partnership with Chris Brand, executive director of FODAC, has made this impactful distribution possible.
“Over the past seven years, I have had the privilege of serving our wonderful seniors,” said Tran. “Each face, each story has left a profound mark on my heart. I’ve witnessed the challenges many of our elders face as their health declines, turning simple tasks — like walking or bathing — into significant hurdles.”
“How wonderful that Emory Morsberger, executive director of Gateway85 CID, introduced us to Chris Brand,” she continued. “The response from our seniors shows a great need for these support aids, and this is just the beginning of a partnership that will continue to provide essential medical supplies.”
During the event, Tran presented a thank-you to FODAC on behalf of the seniors for this life-changing donation and shared, “As we prepare to distribute these aids today, I can hardly contain my emotions. I truly believe that with FODAC’s support, our seniors will no longer live in fear of falling. They will have the strength to walk again and embrace life with all the joy and freedom they deserve.”
Programs of assistance
Recognizing that minority groups often face challenges integrating into American society due to language barriers and limited access to government support, First Senior Center of Georgia offers programs such as a food bank, free transportation, burial services and social support.
Coincidentally, FODAC, founded by Ed Butcher, began with a mission to help a young Vietnamese child injured during the Vietnam conflict while he was serving in the Marines. Today, FODAC continues its legacy of support and care by providing mobility assistance to individuals in need.
The Veterans Day event marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership between First Senior Center of Georgia and FODAC.
About First Senior Center
First Senior Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free services to the Vietnamese elderly community in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. It has evolved into a lifeline for low-income seniors, offering crucial services such as language support, food pantry assistance, benefits enrollment aid, senior wellness programs, affordable housing support, end-of-life care, transportation, and crisis management. Learn more at fscofga.com.
About FODAC
Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Tucker, Georgia, committed to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by providing low-cost, high-quality medical equipment. Learn more at fodac.org.
