There has been no shortage of challenges in recent weeks. But here is a small list of recent things that brightened our day, made us smile, and reminded us that we are all in this together.
- We have seen a surge in volunteer applications in recent weeks, many from people who have never worked with us, but want to help during this difficult time.
- SCES team members and volunteers have helped our Meals on Wheels recipients stock-up on food, by making special deliveries of frozen and shelf table meals.
- Human Resources Director Ellyn Torres is among our many staff and volunteers who have been making Friendly Phone Calls to older adults who are feeling lonely. She said it has been great to meet someone new during a time of social distancing.“The woman I’ve been talking with a really good conversationalist,” said Torres. “It’s turning into pretty cool relationship and I’m looking forward to meeting her in person, when I can.”
SCES has organized about 30 Friendly Phone call connections, and we are still seeking volunteers for this effort. Please contact SCES Clinical Director Stephanie Becker at Stephanie.Becker@eldercare.org for more details.
- Wellness Coordinator Eliza Weisner recently provided some stress reducing coloring books and colored pencils for residents at the Putnam Square apartments. Checking in with them by phone recently, she said several were like, “Guess what I’m doing? Coloring!”
- SCES Aging Information Center Director Dana Beguerie donated 40 homemade masks for her colleagues on Monday, saying she has helpful friends who are handy with crafts. Adult Family Care Social Worker Eliza Royer donated about 15 more, which she made using fabric she had on hand and her sewing machine.
- Our thanks to those who have donated in recent weeks. This includes the Llewellyn Foundation, Cambridge Trust, East Cambridge Savings Bank, and CambridgeSide Partners.
- We have also received many private donations, which often include brief notes. We particularly liked this one: “I’m grateful for the great work you do, particularly now, and make this contribution today in recognition of my cousin, Kris Wiitala’s, birthday.” Kris is an Elder Care Advisor in our Aging Information Center, and she has also volunteered to deliver frozen meals in recent weeks.
- We have seen great collaboration with other community organizations, including the local Councils on Aging, the Housing Authorities, Cambridge Mutual Aid Network, Mutual Aid of Medford & Somerville, and Mystic Valley Elder Services. (Apologies to any not mentioned—the level of concern for others in our community has been phenomenal).
- Speaking of outstanding community partners, we received an email this week that included this passage, which made our day: “We are thankful to all of your staff’s commitment always, but during this time in particular. I’ve made numerous calls to case managers that were answered promptly and responded to urgently on behalf of our shared clients, and it has been so appreciated.”
Thank you for reading our Good Newsletter. Have some good news you’d like to share? Email nathan.lamb@eldercare.org.
