Dear Friend: In preparation for an unpredictable flu season, local health departments are collaborating closely with schools and senior centers to reduce illness and limit disruption of day-to-day activities. The best prevention and protection is to stay informed of the latest guidelines, updates and recommendations from public health officials. We will be updating you in the near future on locations for flu shots through our local health departments.

The Florida Discount Drug Program--The Florida Discount Drug Card has been designed to lower the cost of prescriptions for Florida residents. This card is available to the following individuals:

• Anyone age 60 and older who is without prescription drug coverage or those who fall into the Medicare Prescription Drug Gap.
• Anyone under age 60 without prescription drug coverage, and with annual qualifying family income levels.
The Discount Drug Card can be used at participating pharmacies and eligible participants receive a discount on virtually all drugs. For more information on qualifying incomes and to learn more about the program, visit www.floridadiscountdrugcard.com/.

Long-Term Care in Florida

Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs provides free and unbiased counseling and assistance regarding long-term care planning and insurance options through its SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) program. The goal is to help people understand and receive the health insurance coverage they need through Medicare, Medicaid, Prescription Assistance, Long-Term Care Planning and Insurance. Various resources and Internet links are available at its website http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/shine/
You may also contact the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337 to speak directly to a SHINE counselor or email any questions to information@elderaffairs.org.

Florida Unclaimed Safe Deposit Box Auction October 24th--The Department of Financial Services will be holding an unclaimed property auction in Ft. Lauderdale at the Embassy Suites Hotel. The event is open to the public and includes tangible items such as watches, jewelry, coins, currency, stamps, historical items and other miscellaneous articles from abandoned safe deposit boxes. A free catalog is available on the Bureau of Unclaimed Property’s website. For more details visit www.FLTreasureHunt.org.

As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns. Our district office number is (561) 470-6593.

Kelly Skidmore, State Representative, District 90

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