If you enjoy meeting new people and going to the grocery store, this program is for you.
If you enjoy meeting new people and going to the grocery store, this program is for you.
Chores that many people take for granted can get harder to accomplish as you age. Some older adults can’t get to the grocery store, and would like someone to go for them. Others want to do their own shopping, but would like a friendly helper to come along. Shopping Assistants support older adults with food shopping and other grocery-related tasks such as loading or unloading groceries. Depending on needs, the volunteer may either transport the elder to the store with them and assist with shopping, or accept a grocery list from them and do the shopping on their behalf.
Springwell Shopping Assistance volunteers are matched with isolated older adults in Belmont, Brookline, Needham, Newton, Waltham, Watertown, Wellesley and Weston. Shopping Assistants can help with writing a shopping list, going to the store for or with someone, putting away groceries, or running other, brief shopping errands. Shopping trips are typically weekly, or bi-weekly, as needed. Springwell Shopping Assistants do not handle more than $75 in cash or manage money.
Springwell has more than 30 years of experience working with volunteers. One thing we know for sure is that kindness matters. Because of Springwell Volunteers: People are less lonely. People are less anxious. People can get to important medical appointments. People feel heard. People are able to enjoy a healthy meal in a friendly environment. People know someone cares.
Each volunteer is screened to determine their interests, trained and carefully matched with a senior in the community. Program managers are always available to answer volunteers’ questions and handle any concerns that may arise.