The Newton Senior Center has expanded our partnership with FriendshipWorks to pilot two new programs: Medical Escorts and Friendly Helping. These programs, as well as our long-running Friendly Visiting Program, are for Newton residents age 60+ and residents 55+ with hearing or vision loss. 

ONGOING: Friendly Visiting: Friendly Visitors visit once a week to drink coffee or tea, share stories, go for walks, do errands together, or assist with small tasks. Over time, both people grow and learn from each other, often becoming great friends. 

NEW: Medical Escorts: Medical Escorts offer comfort, reassurance, and mobility/navigation assistance, beginning inside the home, continuing to the doctor’s office and appointment room, and ending with a safe return back inside the home. The program does not currently provide transportation, but your escort will accompany you on public transportation, ride services, or NewMo. Please note that requests for Medical Escort services require 14 business days' notice in advance of a medical appointment. This time allows our coordinators to identify and schedule an appropriate volunteer for your escort. 

NEW: Friendly Helping: Volunteers provide short-term assistance to older adults who need help with specific tasks, such as helping with organization, seasonal chores, errands, or boxing up for a move. 

To inquire about these services, contact the Senior Center’s social worker, Emily Kuhl, at 617-796-1672.