Dr. Piper Center for Social Services

The History of

 DR.   ELLA   MAE   PIPER

March 8, 1884 – June 13, 1954

Dr. Ella Mae Piper was born in Brunswick; Georgia (near the Florida line) March 8, 1884; the only daughter of Ned Bailer and Sarah Williams.  Mrs. Piper died on June 13. 1954.

History

In December 1974, city officials were approached by a group of interested citizens about the possibility of establishing a senior center.  These citizens had two primary concerns: they were aware that a number of persons over 60 were not having basic needs adequately met; and that the Ella Piper property might be available for use as a senior center.  This group later became the Board of Directors of the Dr. Ella Piper Center. Inc. and received permission to use the property. 

The organization was incorporated on June 24, 1975 and an election of officers of the Board of Directors was held.  Funding began November 15, 1975 through the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Services under Title 111 of the Older Americans Act and Title XX of the Social Security Act.  Local match money was allocated by the City of Fort Myers Redevelopment Agency in its plans for housing assistance under Section 105 (a)  (2) and (8) of Public Law 93-383 Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.  In January 1976, an application was made for Title X funding under the Economic Development Act to make possible home maintenance services beginning in April 1976 and continued until the end of available funding.  Inspection of the original residence of the late Dr. Ella Piper disclosed structural problems that caused the city to decide to construct a new building rather than remodel the old house as originally planned.  Construction began on the new building in March 1976 and was completed in May 1976 Services were formerly transferred to the new building at the dedication held on June 27, 1976.

The center began operating as a congregate meal site in June 1976 in cooperation with the program operated by the Lee County School Board.  In 1981, the Dr. Ella Piper Center became the countywide provider for congregate meals with 13 sites.  In 1982, the center further enlarged its nutrition Program to provide home-delivered meals in areas not serviced by the local Meals-on-Wheels program.

The Dr. Ella Piper Center is a multi-purpose center.  The goal of the center is to provide services, which meet the basic human needs, enrich the daily lives, and enhance the independent life style of elders; as well as services that impact the lives of children with special needs and at risk youth.