We are shooting for a September opening, though what that will entail remains to be seen! We will do our best to get there, provide as much as we can safely, etc. I will certainly keep everyone posted. Our senior bus will continue to make early trips to the grocery stores, etc. and our MedRiDE will be back up and running within a few weeks. They are finishing up on putting the Plexiglas on the vehicles and everyone is required to wear a mask. As we know, our elderly population is the most vulnerable to suffer the severest of issues and difficulties with catching the virus, we want to continue to do our best and keep everyone safe. The precautions we have been taking have seemed to have made a positive impact – we would like to ensure that continues. As I mentioned last month, we understand the great need for socialization, though the Center is simply not designed to keep people 6 feet apart and/or to safely exercise with masks, etc. The new guidelines for exercise are that seniors need to be 12 feet apart (I was trying consider an outdoor exercise program) but with the heat and masks and distance regulations, I simply do not think it is viable at this time. We look forward to the day when some type of “normal” will be here and when we can all interact safely. My staff and I have been coming in every day and are busier than ever! My Social Services office remains closed at this time, though we can start collecting clothing! So if you would like to make clothing drop offs, please just bring down and put inside door, my staff will get them (so there is no contact) hopeful we will be ready to go soon with clients able to come in, by appointment one at a time, to get their needs! Our Outdoor Food Bank will continue to operate in the front of the senior center building until further notice. We are also continuing to deliver lunches and food baskets to our homebound seniors and residents with compromised immunity systems, in an effort to keep them home and safe! We are also continuing to provide the services that we can via telephone and email. Your donations go such a long way in helping us, help our friends and neighbors in need. We remain to be busier than ever trying to keep everyone safe & active! We are continuing with our “wellness” check phone calls. If you live alone or know a senior that lives alone and would like to get a friendly phone call every other day, please let us know and we will put them on the list! Our Health & Wellness video program is available for those with a computer or smartphone that have email. One of our instructors has put together a video program that is sent to your email each day, Monday – Friday. Each video show is educational and also demonstrates ways to stay fit and active at home. If you would like to receive the videos, just email Kathie at the Montville Senior Center and she will add you to the list! Kathie’s email is: kpeck@montville-ct.org. This program is called Cooped Up With Caitlin and is a great way to make sure you are staying active while staying safe at home!
Please stay cool and hydrated during this time of the year (and always) I hope everyone is remaining healthy, staying active, and mostly staying safe! We will see each other again very soon! ~ Kathie