Elk Grove Township offers new program for seniors

Since the COVID-19 health crisis began, seniors have been placed in a high-risk category. Elk Grove Township's new program, Senior Community Check-In, aims to connect seniors with a social worker to assess their social, emotional, physical and safety needs while still living at home, also known as aging in place.

Seniors are then connected to township programs based on their unique needs.

Through weekly check-ins, township social workers can provide ongoing assistance to seniors with resources such as the food pantry, which now makes deliveries; transportation assistance; counseling; and general or emergency financial assistance.

"The township continues to be focused on empowering our community, which includes our seniors, who are now navigating a whole new reality due to the pandemic," said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney.

"By providing a variety of resources, our goal is to help them to stay in their homes for as long as possible."

For seniors who cannot drive or do not have their own transportation, food pantry delivery service can be provided by the township food pantry. Boxed food supplied by the Greater Chicago Food Depository can be dropped off to in-need seniors at their homes.

Township bus services are also available for seniors who need to get to doctor appointments, the grocery store or other appointments. This transportation service is provided at no cost to seniors who live in Elk Grove Township.

The pandemic has caused strain on some seniors, including feelings of isolation, fear and elevated stress while they are living on their own. Free teletherapy (phone or video) counseling sessions are available, confidential and secure, and are compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Seniors can additionally obtain help from the township to apply for financial assistance through a number of programs that include assistance with mortgage, rent, energy and utilities.

For assistance not offered through township programs or services, the Elk Grove Township Community Empowerment Fund is a 501(c)3 corporation that exists to assist all township residents, including seniors, who are experiencing additional financial challenges.

For information on the Senior Community Check-In Program, contact Stephanie Shparago at (224) 222-0942.

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