Hearts and Hands Faith in Action
Hearts and Hands is a volunteer organization serving our frail or vulnerable neighbors in rural Western New York communities. Built upon an interfaith coalition, trained volunteers connect frail or vulnerable individuals in underserved communities with needed services including:
- “Door through Door’ transportation for medical appointments and local errands.
- Phone Pals, companion visits and wellness checks.
- In home supports: letter writing, bill paying, hair care and much more.
- Yard work and snow removal assistance.
- Respite services to lighten the load of a caregiver.
- Minor handyman services.
The Pride Center provides a community of new friends for seniors through The Silver Pride Project - a peer group designed by seniors, many of them looking to raise awareness on LGBT aging issues and organizing social events to reduce social isolation. Whether it's card parties, game days, computer classes, workshops, Lunch and Learn (with speakers on a wide variety of topics), or meals at neighborhood restaurants, there is always something happening in this program. The Pride Center strives to create a safe space where those 50 years and "better" will have access to important resources and referrals regarding health care, social services, and community activities.
Founded in Detroit, Slow Roll is a group bicycle ride that meets every Monday night and has expanded into a Global network of community rides. Each week we meet at different venues and take a unique route throughout the city, including all the major and minor neighborhoods that we are so proud of. Slow Roll is for everyone; all ages, all skill levels and every type of bike is welcome. Our slow pace keeps the group safe and gives riders a unique perspective of our great city and its neighborhoods.
Town of Tonawanda’s Complete Streets Policy
The Town of Tonawanda recently adopted an update to its Comprehensive Plan. One of the repeated themes that was heard from the community throughout the comprehensive planning process is that residents of all ages increasingly desire to live in a community that offers active transportation opportunities (i.e. enhanced walking and biking). As a result of this repeated input, one of the main recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan is to develop a Complete Streets Policy. In order to meet this goal, the Town Board of the Town of Tonawanda has directed the Office of Planning and Development to develop a committee made up of representatives from various community groups and governmental agencies that would work to promote improved active transportation opportunities and ensure safety throughout Ken-Ton.
Tell us about a project you are working on to make Erie County an easier, friendlier, and healthier place to live for all residents. Email seniorinfo@erie.gov
Examples of age friendly projects may include (but are not limited to):
- supportive services
- accessibility and infrastructure improvements
- programming and enrichment activities
- community events
- volunteer and employment efforts
- public education/advocacy campaigns
- research projects