Looking for ways to serve his constituents, state Rep. Tom Jones created a senior expo in 2023.

"Rep. Jones wanted to create a one-stop resource for older adults, caregivers and their families to connect with local organizations, services and programs that support healthy, engaged and independent living," said Sharon Ogilvie, legislative aid-outreach event coordinator for Jones.

The 50 & Up Expo will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 9, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Hope Community Church, 1806 Harrisburg Ave., Mount Joy. It will feature vendors, information and community resources.

Last year, the event was called the "55 & Up Expo," but organizers lowered the age to 50 specifically to broaden participation and better reflect the many programs, services and activities available to residents starting at that age, Ogilvie shared.

"The expo will feature a wide range of returning vendors, including Masonic Village, Elizabethtown Area Senior Center and the Pennsylvania Department of Aging - PACE Program," she said. "This year we are excited to welcome several new participants, including ClearCaptions, Visiting Angels, Traditions of Hershey and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). These are just a few of the new vendors joining the expo this year, offering even more resources and services for attendees to explore."

Complimentary refreshments, including coffee and light snacks, will be available throughout the event for attendees, and many vendors have provided door prizes, which will be drawn throughout the day and include gift baskets, gift cards and other items.

"Attendees must be present to win the regular door prizes," Ogilvie explained. "A passport card will also be available for attendees to get signed by each vendor; completed cards will be entered into the final door prize drawing. The winner of the final door prize does not need to be present and will be contacted after the expo."

Rep. Jones serves approximately 67,000 residents in Lancaster and Lebanon counties. His area, the 98th legislative district, includes all of the Elizabethtown Area and Donegal school districts.

Along with the expo, Jones holds Coffee & Conversation events throughout the year. The next one is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 11, from 9 to 10 a.m. at his office, 222 S. Market St., Suite 103, Elizabethtown.

Ogilvie encourages people to come to the expo to find resources and information.

"Attendees can expect a welcoming environment with nearly 30 vendors, free health screenings, giveaways, refreshments and opportunities to connect with local service providers," she said. "The expo provides the community with in-person opportunities to interact with government agencies, ask questions and access resources directly. It is open to anyone who wants resources for themselves or for family members. Whether you're looking for health care resources, home services or community engagement activities, there's something for everyone."

The 50 & Up Expo is free to attend. People should park in the lot behind the church and enter from the back of the building, following the posted signs. Ramp access is provided for easy entry.

For more information, visit http://www.reptomjones.com, follow Rep. Jones on Facebook or contact the district office at 717-367-5525.