Letter to the Editor: Senior Center Helps Community in 2011

I was making a list and reflecting upon the year 2011 and how often the and staff have supported our community. I thought it would be an appropriate time to share with you many ways we at the North Andover Senior Center give back to the community.

We work with other organizations to maintain numerous programs that support our seniors, such as the Boston Food Bank, providing monthly provisions for those that need additional support.

Medical transportation is provided by 21 volunteers. These volunteers are recruited by the North Andover Senior Center and they are supported by the Northern Essex Elder Transport Program. Through our transportation coordinator we are able to provide medical transports for our older adults to Boston and local health care facilities for their medical appointments. These drivers receive a stipend for their mileage from the NEET Program.

Monthly, through donations brought into the Senior Center, we send care packages to our troops all over the world. We support our older adults socially by offering various programs that are supported through the efforts of so many businesses in the community.

The Friends of the North Andover Senior Center provide funds for emergency assistance programs, scholarships for free classes and programs along with half price MVRTA transportation tickets for North Andover Seniors. We serve as an emergency shelter during storms.

Through the support of Lazarus House we arrange to have hot meals delivered on holidays to elders who are home alone. Our Tuesday morning knitting group has provided knitted hats to Lawrence School children. Youth volunteers are able to earn community service credit by giving their time at the Center. Our Friday morning Cuddles program has sent handmade dolls to children locally and all over the world.

Many of our seniors are on a fixed income but that does not stop them from giving back to others. We are so fortunate to live in this community and we are so grateful for what we have and what we can do to help our neighbors.  Thank you sincerely from the bottom of our hearts!