- January 17, 2026
On Jan. 8, the Council on Aging of Volusia County, in partnership with the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, announced the creation of the COA Diamond Fund, a new resource designed to provide rapid one-time relief to seniors in crisis.
Both nonprofits invite the community to help grow the fund now, so it will be ready to provide assistance when applications open mid 2026.
"The COA Diamond Fund is about preventing our seniors from facing an unexpected crisis alone,” said Eveline Kraljic, co-executive Director of the Council on Aging of Volusia County. “With the community’s support, this fund will be ready to step in when help is needed the most. By combining our strengths with the Community Foundation and United Way, we can act quickly, use resources wisely, and make a real difference for older adults facing a one-time emergency."
According to a news release by United Way, more than half of Volusia County households led by adults 65 and older are considered ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed—or live with even fewer resources. These residents often struggle to afford essentials like housing, food, and healthcare, leaving them vulnerable when unexpected challenges such as utility shutoffs, eviction or disasters occur.
That was the case for Stephanie Doe, a previous assistance recipient.
“After Hurricane Milton, I was facing eviction and my utilities being shut off," she said. "I’d been trying everything — applying for jobs, seeking disaster assistance — but nothing was working. I reached out to the Council on Aging, and they helped me with rent and kept my lights on. That support gave me the breathing room I needed to get back on my feet. Today, I’m working again and living independently. I’m so grateful — and I hope the new Diamond Fund helps others like me find hope when they need it most.”
The COA Diamond Fund will be managed by the Community Foundation and United Way. Council on Aging will identify eligible seniors like Doe and connect them with appropriate resources.
“The Diamond Fund fills a critical gap for our aging neighbors who too often fall through the cracks,” said Jan Miller, board chair of the Community Foundation and United Way. “Its impact depends on the generosity of this community. By building the fund today, we guarantee it will be there for seniors when the need arises.”
To support the Diamond Fund, visit https://bit.ly/COADiamondFund.
