Social Services provides information and runs support groups for caregivers as well as providing social support, investigative, and referral services to our seniors. Social Services also assists with Medicare Counseling (CHOICES), Energy Assistance, Renters Rebate, Long Term Planning, Application Completion and Navigation of Community Based Services. The Social Worker also works with Crisis Intervention or the Police Department in situations that require such intervention. For more information contact the Social Services at 203-272-8030.
In addition to the services detailed below, the Cheshire Senior Center hosts many programs and events, all of which are listed in our newsletter calendar, click here for our monthly newsletter. If you would like more information please contact the Senior Center at 203-272-8286.
MEDICARE COUNSELING
One on one counseling on Medicare the national health insurance program for: People 65 years of age and older, certain persons under the age of 65 who are disabled and those who have end stage renal disease (permanent kidney failure requiring a transplant or dialysis). For additional information go to www.medicare.gov or www.shiphelp.org
APPLICATION ASSISTANCE
Medicare Savings Program(MSP): Pays the Medicare Part B premium for eligible Connecticut Medicare Beneficiaries, gives qualified individuals Medicare Supplemental coverage and automatically qualifies individuals for the Low Income Subsidy program. MSP eligibility is based on Gross Income. Click here for more information and an application to this program.
Medicare Supplemental Policies and Medicare Advantage Plans: Medicare does not cover 100% of a medical event. Consequently, many beneficiaries choose to purchase a Medicare Supplemental Policy or Medicare Advantage Plan to cover all or a portion of these remaining expenses. In order to be eligible for a Medicare Supplemental Policy or Medicare Advantage Plan you must be enrolled in Medicare A & B. Click here for the most up to date rate chart.
Medicaid: The Medicaid program provides for remedial, preventive, and long term medical care for the income eligible aged, blind or disabled. Individuals who meet both the income and asset eligibility criteria are eligible for Medicaid. The program objectives are supported by certain key services provided to recipients both in the community and in long term placement. "Home and community-based care" waivers allow for the provision of certain non-medical services in order to avoid more costly institutionalization of individuals. Click here for more information and applications to this program.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is a nutrition program that helps low-income individuals and families buy food. SNAP also provides education about nutrition to help recipients choose foods that enhance their health and well being. Click here to learn more about the SNAP program or to apply.
Outreach Services: The Cheshire Senior Center offers outreach services to the town’s older population. The program is designed to fill some of the gaps in services experienced by older individuals. Social Services will assist with counseling services on financial matters, insurance forms, benefit programs, caregiver resources, medical bills and other areas of concern. Social Services also has a telephone reassurance program which is designed to provide outreach services to older individuals needing additional supports. Outreach services are confidential and free of charge. For more information contact Social Services at 203-272-8286.
OTHER
NON CURBSIDE TRASH COLLECTION
This service is available when all occupants of the residence are 70 years of age or physically disabled. Each resident of the household must provide:
Proof of age with a birth certificate or valid Connecticut driver's license OR
Certification from a health care provider.
Applications are available from the Public Works Department (203 271-6650). The Director of Public Works must approve each application.
HELPFUL LINKS
Local elderly Tax Relief Programs information.
The Department of Social Services provides a broad range of services to the elderly, people with disabilities, families, and individuals who need assistance in maintaining or achieving their full potential for self-direction, self-reliance and independent living.
End Hunger Connecticut!, an anti-hunger organization, designed this web-site to help people in Connecticut get food stamps.
The Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging (WCAAA) is a private non-profit organization that receives federal and state funds, which are distributed to adult day care centers, local social services agencies, nutrition, and transportation programs. All programs are available to individuals 60 years or older; some services are targeted to frail, low income and/or minority elderly. Limited services are available to Western CT (Cheshire included) area residents below age of 60.
Connecticut Legal Services is a private, non-profit, civil law firm dedicated to helping low-income families and individuals obtain justice. The bulk of our work consists of providing civil law representation and counseling to thousands of low-income families and individuals each year. We help our clients use the law to meet basic life needs.
The official U.S. government site for Medicare.
Stefanie D. Theroux Coordinator of Senior Services Municipal Agent for the Elderly
Kristen Cherry Social Worker
Laura Gravel Program Supervisor
Tracey Kozlowski
Administrative Assistant
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Senior Center 240 Maple Avenue Cheshire, CT 06410