Helping people remain in their home, independently and for as long as safely possible, is the driving force behind Supporting Our Seniors (S.O.S.). This program is a community partnership that utilizes volunteers to provide free non-medical support services to eligible individuals age 60 and over.

This collaborative project, led by the Sullivan Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross, will be conducted in partnership with RSVP of Chemung County and the Chemung County Department of Aging and Long Term Care. It is based on similar programs provided by Faith in Action and Project Care that have been very successful in Steuben County. The program will establish a volunteer network in Chemung County to deliver home-based services to 100 frail, elderly residents, which will allow them to remain in their homes. Services would include such things as transportation, light yard work or housekeeping, shopping, and other tasks. The program will also bring youth volunteers together with elder need.

Funding for S.O.S. comes from a United Way of the Southern Tier Venture Grant process designed to stimulate innovative solutions to challenges that confront people in the Southern Tier.

For more coverage, go the Star Gazette’s web site at:

http://www.stargazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080205/NEWS01/802050311/1001/NEWS

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