FFLA is developing an Elder Law Grant Program to address the needs of a growing elderly population in Florida. With the project currently in planning stages, FFLA is seeking input from all interested parties. Organizations that have information to offer in the development of an Elder Law Grant Program are asked to contact FFLA by March 30, 2026.
“The number of clients aged 65 and older has increased significantly over the past few years, rising 39%, with over 800 older adults receiving legal assistance from Gulfcoast Legal Services (GLS) during last year,” said CEO Theresa Prichard of GLS, an FFLA grantee. “This increase reflects broader trends, as elder abuse and related legal issues remain prevalent in our community, highlighting the critical need for accessible legal support for older adults.”
Florida has one of the highest percentages of elderly population in the United States with 22% of residents aged 65+. The State of Florida Department of Elder Affairs estimates that by 2045, 30% of Florida’s population will be elderly residents. This increase is also reflected in an increased demand for legal services among the elderly.
“As we begin to build an Elder Law Grant Program, we are in the process of soliciting donations and gathering information to best address the growing need for legal aid resources for our state’s vulnerable elderly population,” FFLA Executive Director Donny MacKenzie said. “We’re excited to get this program off the ground and appreciate any input from our grantees and relevant organizations to ensure its effectiveness.”