09/10/2026
Newberry County has experienced its share of severe weather and
emergencies in recent years, highlighting the importance of being prepared before disaster
strikes.
For older adults, having an emergency plan, knowing where to find resources and understanding what to do before, during and after an emergency can help protect lives and provide peace of mind.
Newberry Mayor Foster Senn, the Newberry County Council on Aging, the Central Midlands Area Agency on Aging, and the South Carolina Department on Aging (SCDOA) are inviting older adults, caregivers and community members to a Senior P.R.E.P. (Planning and Resources for Emergency Preparedness) event. The event will bring emergency preparedness partners together in one place to provide valuable information, answer questions and share resources and materials to help seniors prepare for emergencies and stay connected to the support available in their communities.
The Senior P.R.E.P. event will be held on
September 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the
Edward Kyzer Firehouse Conference Center, located at 1227 McKibben St, Newberry, SC 29108
Governor Henry McMaster has declared September Preparedness Month in South Carolina.
“We’re most appreciative 20 state and local agencies are holding this event in Newberry County to help older adults,” Mayor Senn said. “This is a great opportunity for seniors to visit with first responders, utilities, senior aid groups and many others.”
Older adults may need extra help before, during, and after an emergency in South Carolina.
Through the Senior P.R.E.P. program, SCDOA works with local, county and state agencies to deliver critical information, resources and support to help older adults, caregivers, veterans, and older adults with disabilities plan and stay safe. Free emergency kits will be available at this event until supplies last. Attendees will have the
opportunity to speak with subject matter experts from different organizations about the importance of preparing for emergencies before, during, and after a disaster.
For more information about the Senior P.R.E.P. program, including preparedness resources and upcoming events, visit South Carolina Department on Aging – Senior P.R.E.P..
CM COG Area Agency on Aging Director Sheila Bell-Ford during a radio video on WKDK.