Forsyth County urges donations for seniors, warns of jury scam

On December 22 Forsyth County community channels highlighted two urgent matters that affect residents across the county. Senior Services opened the Remember in December item drive, soliciting donations of personal care and household items for older adults, and the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about an active phone and text scam that uses the names of local officers to demand payment for alleged missed jury duty.

The item drive runs through December 30 and includes multiple donation drop off locations and a wish list of personal care and household items for seniors. Organizers say the campaign is intended to help residents who may struggle to afford basic hygiene and home supplies during the winter months. Access to such items is directly tied to health outcomes, especially for older adults who face higher risks from respiratory and infectious illnesses when they lack adequate hygiene products and safe household supplies.

The sheriff’s office warning addresses a scam characterized by phone calls or text messages demanding payment to avoid a supposed legal penalty for missed jury duty. The messages use names of local law enforcement officers and present a false urgency intended to coerce payment. Law enforcement reminded residents that officials will not call to demand payment for missed jury duty, and urged anyone who receives such calls or messages to report them to the sheriff’s office.

Both items carry implications for community safety and equity. The donation drive seeks to fill gaps for older residents who are disproportionately low income or isolated, and who may otherwise rely on emergency services or clinics. The scam warning highlights how fraudsters target fear and confusion, often aiming at older adults who may be less familiar with modern telecommunication scams.

Residents can support neighbors by donating before December 30 and by sharing scam awareness within families and community networks. Reporting suspected scam attempts helps investigators track patterns and protect vulnerable residents. Together these efforts underscore the role of local services and law enforcement in safeguarding public health and community trust during the holiday season.