Social Services

Farm Share Program

  • The Chicopee Council on Aging is once again offering farm shares though Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA).  You must be 60 years old or older to qualify.  In addition, you must be able to answer yes to at least one of the following four criteria: - I receive SNAP benefits, Medicaid, SSI, AFDC, or Veteran’s aid. - I participate in the Food Bank’s Brown Bag Program. - I live alone and my income is below $27,180. - The total of my household is below $36,620. Last year it was $10.00 for 10 weeks. We do not know the cost of the weekly shares at this time, but expect them to be very similar to last year. Only one share per household will be available. Applications can be picked up at the front desk or from Beth Ferrando. If you have questions about the program, Beth can be reached at 534-3698 ext. 115. If there are more applicants then farm shares, a lottery will be held to determine who will be awarded the shares. Application deadline is June 1, 2023

SNAP

  • Supplemental SNAP benefits will continue as of the time of this printing. Please contact Diane @ 413-534-3698, ext.120 for help to complete an application.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program logo

OUTREACH COORDINATOR 

  • Beth Ferrando is an experienced social worker who has worked with every age group. She is here to help answer your questions about various benefit programs and assist with filling out applications, etc.
Beth.2

WELLNESS CALLS

  • Our volunteers and staff are staying connected to residents more than ever through the hundreds of phone calls they are making weekly. Would you like a call? Do you know someone who would like a call? Contact Colleen @ 413-534-3698 ext. 105 to get on the list.

50+ JOB SEEKERS PROGRAM

  • Any Massachusetts resident 50+ years old can register to participate. Each session is guided by a professional employment coach. Please Visit: www.50plusjobseekers.org to register.

SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM 

  • In 1988, the Senior Companion Program was started in conjunction with the Valley Opportunity Council (VOC). The VOC matches senior companions, age 55 & older, with frail elders within the community. The senior volunteer helps the elder with medical appointments, grocery shopping, respite for family members, & companionship. If you, a loved one, or a friend could benefit from a Senior Companion, call Beth Ferrando at 534-3698, extension 115, for a referral.

SHINE - SERVING THE HEALTH INSURANCE NEEDS OF ELDERS

  • SHINE volunteer counselors are available to answer questions about Medicare and other health insurance issues. Please call RiverMills at 534-3698 and we will get your contact information to a SHINE counselor who will call you back to answer your health insurance questions.
notary