They've been to Gatlinburg, the Soco Zoo, Santa's Land and trout fishing, Mann explained. The staff also schedules visits by magicians, singing groups, dog owners and other entertainment that the clients might enjoy. The clients, who must be 18 years old or above, suffer from a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, paralysis, congestive heart failure or diabetes, are wheelchair bound or mentally disabled. They have an average of 16 clients a day. The cost to the client is based on his or her own ability to pay, Mann said, and has nothing to do with the family's financial status.
Assistance is provided for low-income patrons through grants.
The day care center provides transportation for those who cannot get there otherwise. When returning clients to their homes, the van driver makes sure their house is safe, the lights are on and the client is safely inside with the door locked before he leaves. Clients are referred to Sumtymers by family members, neighbors, friends or the Department of Social Services, Mann said. They are interviewed by the staff before being accepted, she added.