Senior Companion Program Awarded Wal-Mart Grant
Contact: Carla Ganiel at (207) 581-3326
ORONO — The University of Maine Cooperative Extension (UMCE) Senior Companion Program (SCP) is the recipient of a $500 grant from the Bangor Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart officials Don Emmons and Allison Carson presented the grant award to SCP Project Director Carla Ganiel and AmeriCorps VISTA member Susan McNerney on June 9 at UMaine’s Buchanan Alumni House.
The Senior Companion Program is a national community service program providing older Americans with opportunities to volunteer. Senior Companions are individuals aged 60 or older who provide companionship to homebound or isolated elders in their communities. The program seeks to reduce loneliness and isolation and to help homebound individuals maintain their independence. Over 100 senior volunteers are currently involved in the program, which serves more than 500 people in 13 Maine counties.
Senior Companions spend time with elders reading, playing games, reminiscing, and assisting with daily living tasks such as grocery shopping. SCP volunteers receive monthly training and education in elder issues. Those who meet income eligibility guidelines receive a modest stipend and reimbursement for transportation expenses.
For more information, call (207) 581-3870 or 1-800-287-0274 and ask for the Senior Companion Program.