North Charlotte Today

Mecklenburg County is taking proactive steps to protect its senior citizens from financial scams through an event titled "Scam Jam." The initiative aims to educate seniors on identifying scams, recognize fraudulent activities, and guide them on reporting such incidents.

The cost of scams on a national level exceeds $3 billion annually, affecting many, including residents of Mecklenburg County. Therefore, the county will host this free event, providing attendees with lunch, on May 1, 2025. The event will take place at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Key speakers at the event will feature representatives from various organizations, such as the U.S. Department of Justice, North Carolina Department of Justice, North Carolina Department of Insurance, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, Legal Aid of North Carolina, and the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy.

"Scam Jam" also coincides with "Older Americans Month," urging Mecklenburg County residents to celebrate senior citizens and promote an inclusive society. The theme highlights the importance of flexible thinking around aging as the population of residents aged 60 and over continues to rise, exceeding 150,000. The event is hosted by the Mecklenburg County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services, Services for Adults division.

For those interested in attending, registration is open online at the county’s website, through email at [email protected], or by calling 980-314-6800.

The county encourages individuals who suspect they or a loved one have fallen victim to scams, frauds, or any form of abuse to reach out via the 24-hour help line at 704-336-CARE (2273).

Additional information regarding services for adults is available at the department's website.