The Women Supporting Women group, comprising about twelve members, was highlighted as a promising new support system for seniors in Kingston. The initiative’s goal is to assist elderly women who wish to remain in their homes but require help with daily tasks due to limited familial support. Drawing from personal experiences in Falmouth, the speaker emphasized the importance of social interaction and companionship for isolated seniors.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about funding and the logistics of operating such a program. Suggestions included collaborating with local schools like Silver Lake to involve students in community service, potentially expanding the volunteer base. The speaker pointed out how community support and fundraising have been pivotal in sustaining similar programs elsewhere, noting that Falmouth has a service center providing food and aid to those in need.

The conversation then transitioned to Kingston’s transportation options. Carrie Victoriao, a community engagement coordinator, presented on Gatra’s transportation services, detailing the fixed route bus system and ADA paratransit services. The fixed route buses connect Kingston to surrounding areas like Duxbury and Marshfield and are currently free until the end of June. Victoriao assured attendees that all buses are ADA accessible, facilitating transportation for individuals with disabilities.

The ADA paratransit service offers door-to-door travel within a three-quarter mile radius of the fixed route for those who cannot use the regular bus service. The application process for this service involves confirmation of disability by a licensed healthcare professional. Attendees were eager for more outreach efforts to ensure that seniors and individuals with disabilities are informed about these transportation options, particularly given that the sail bus service is free until June 30th thanks to a grant.

Discussion covered other transportation services, including the Boston hospital bus, which is being reinstated and coordinated by senior centers for medical appointments in the city. Additionally, the Med Wheels program, providing one medical ride per month outside the Gatra service area, was also introduced. These transportation options are important for seniors needing to access essential medical services, such as dialysis.

In other developments, the board discussed a $50,000 donation from the estate of Barbara Potter. This unrestricted donation is intended to support the Council on Aging. The financial boost comes at a time when the board approved the FY27 COA budget at $433,947.77, which includes considerations for food and café revenue.

The board also moved to recommend Melissa Clemens as a new member. Her unanimous recommendation will be forwarded to the select board, and upon approval, Clemens will undergo necessary training. Additionally, the potential reappointment of a long-serving board member, Maren, whose term expires in 2026, was discussed. Despite one dissenting vote, the board decided to recommend her reappointment due to a lack of new candidates.

Updates from the senior center included ongoing programs such as a local history presentation, a volunteer appreciation lunch, and preparations for National Healthcare Decisions Day. The launch of an end-of-life conversations initiative has received positive feedback, and a health and safety fair is scheduled for May 29.

The Liverable Kingston working group also met recently to address health disparities in the community. A hospital community benefits manager presented findings on accessibility and affordability of care. The group plans to focus on transportation in their next meeting on May 4.

Other community efforts include the community cupboard initiative, which recently served 25 participants and will continue biweekly. The director reported an increase in transportation services provided, from 250 rides in February to 402 in March, and an uptick in café meal services during the same period.