ONGOING PROGRAMS

Join the SCOA’s email group – The email group is for Somerville Council on Aging Seniors and / or Caregivers who are interested in the latest information on resources, events, programming, etc…in and around the Somerville area.  Use the link https://groups.google.com/group/somerville-council-on-aging – If you have any questions or need help joining please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email dhiggins@somervillema.gov

Silver Alert Program – The Somerville Council on Aging with the Somerville Police Department have implemented a program to take a proactive approach towards protecting some of Somerville’s most vulnerable citizens who suffer with serious cognitive impairments that put them at risk for wandering and getting lost.  The Silver Alert Program is designed to collect specific information about a potential missing person, along with photo identification.  This confidential information will be kept on file for immediate use in the event a loved one is reported missing.  Please contact the SCOA at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 for additional information or to register.

Free Groceries Every Month?  You may be eligible for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program!  CSFP is a once a month food distribution for individuals 60 years of age or older.  You may be eligible to receive two free bags of food once a month containing healthy shelf stable products.  Proof of identity and age are all that is required to apply.  Must apply beforehand.  Pick up at the Ralph & Jenny Center, 9 New Washington Street on the 4th Thursday of every month unless otherwise specified. For more information or to apply please call 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 – applications are available at the front desk of our Holland Street Center.

Conversations of the Heart – Mondays (see dates below) from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at our Holland Street Center.  When you experience a loss; whether it is a loved one, a place of employment or even a change in your life, don’t process these feelings along; come join our group where we process difficult emotions together in a safe and welcoming environment.  For more information or questions please contact Natasha at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317.  Refreshments will be served.  Future dates:  September 11th & 25th, October 16th and 30th, November 13th & 27th and December 11th.

Friendly Caller Program

Do you know someone who could benefit from a friendly call?  Maybe you are feeling isolated and want someone to talk to – or you just want someone to listen.  Please call Natasha at 617-625-6600 ext. 2317 to sign up for our “Friendly Caller” Program.

UPCOMING EVENTS.

Winds for All –Tuesday mornings – 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center.  $10 per class – A music immersion class for those who have never played a woodwind instrument.  To reserve your spot or for additional information please call Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321.

Thanksgiving Lunch & Bingo – Thursday, November 9th at the Cross Street Center from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.  Seating is limited. For questions, additional information or to reserve your spot contact Maureen at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335.

Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program will be joining our Low Vision Support Group – Tuesday, November 14th from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at our Holland Street Center.  MassEDP provides adaptive telephone equipment to people who have difficulty using the telephone due to issues such as hearing or vision loss.  Please contact Ashley at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 with questions or to sign up.

Thanksgiving Lunch & Bingo – Tuesday, November 14th is SOLD OUT  Call Kim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 to put your name on the waiting list should there be an opening at the Ralph & Jenny Center.

Thanksgiving Lunch & Bingo – Thursday, November 16th is SOLD OUT  Call Kim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 to put your name on the waiting list should there be an opening at the Holland Street Center.

Lessons my Father Taught Me – Friday, November 17th starting at 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center.  Join us as Alan Cohen creator of Lessons my Father Taught Me as he shares with you an interactive and humorous presentation.  Lunch and bingo to follow.  .  For more information or to register please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or dhiggins@somervillema.gov.

Afternoon at the Movies – Tuesday, November 28th starting at 12:30 p.m. in the Atrium of our Holland Street Center.  This month we are showing, Megan Leavey, a moving drama about marine corporal Megan Leavey bond with a military dog Rex as they detect explosives in Iraq.  Runs approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes.  RSVP to Josephine by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

Be SEEN! (Be Somerville Energy Efficient Now” – Tuesday, November 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center.  This program educates residents about city, state and federal programs to help make homes more energy efficient.  Tenant, landlord or homeowner – there is a program for you.  Please contact Natasha at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 with questions or to RSVP.

Winter Wonderland Art Class with Linda Cohen – Friday, December 1st and Friday, December 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Holland Street Center.  This class will combine glass painting and water  color into a winter scene.  Class size is limited.  Please call 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 to register for this class.  All supplies will be provided.

Holiday Festival/Bazaar – Thursday, November 30th & Friday, December 1st at our Holland Street Center from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.  Bake sale, raffles, wreaths, lunch, crafts, trees and many more holiday items.

Michael Buble Tribute with artist Scott Keo – Tuesday, December 5th – $83 includes transportation, lunch and show at Danversport Yacht Club.  For questions, additional information or to reserve your spot contact Kim or Connie at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

Memory Café – Thursday, December 7th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Mt. Vernon Restaurant.  A safe and comfortable place to share your stories and socialize with others who worry about their memory.  RSVP by calling Natasha or Ashley at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

Holiday Party & Bingo – Thursday, December 7th is SOLD OUT  Call Kim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 to put your name on the waiting list should there be an opening at the Ralph & Jenny Center.

New York City – December 8th, 9th and 10th is SOLD OUT.  Call Connie at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 to put your name on the waiting list should there be an opening.

Holiday Luncheon – Monday, December 11th at the Highlander Café (high school atrium) $10 – to RSVP please call Connie at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

Holiday Party & Bingo – Thursday, December 14thfrom 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Cross Street Center.  Seating is limited.  For more information, questions or to reserve your spot please contact Maureen at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335.

Illumination of Light Tour – Saturday, December 6th – Check in is at 4:15 p.m. at the High School Concourse – $5 – Hop on the trolley and be amazed at the Holiday Lights in Somerville.  For more information please contact Connie at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

Holiday Party & Bingo – Thursday, December 19th  is SOLD OUT. Call Kim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300 to put your name on the waiting list should there be an opening at the Holland Street Center.

Atlantic City – Wednesday, January 31st to Friday, February 2nd – $189 per person double or $259 per person single – Includes:  motorcoach transportation, 2 nights lodging, $25 slot dollars, 2-$30 meal credit and 2 casino show tickets.  For additional information please contact Connie or Kim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

Blood Pressure Screening – Cross Street Center located at 165 Broadway.  Scheduled for the 3rd Thursday of each month:   December 14th.  If you require additional information please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email dhiggins@somervillema.gov

Blood Pressure Screening – Ralph & Jenny Center located at 9 New Washington Street.  Scheduled for November 30th and December 21st.  If you require additional information please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email dhiggins@somervillema.gov

Blood Pressure Screening – Holland Street Center located at 167 Holland Street.  Scheduled for the 1st Thursday of each month:   December 7th.  If you require additional information please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email dhiggins@somervillema.gov

LGBTQ EVENTS

LBT Women Fit-4-Life – Fitness Class is Thursday evenings starting at 6:00 P.M.  $10 a month fee – scholarships available & it just might be covered under your insurance.  We have available slots and would love to have you.  If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact our Health & Wellness Coordinator, Chris Kowaleski at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2315.

WEEKLY EXERCISE CLASS SCHEDULE

Holland Street Center= (H)Ralph & Jenny Center= (RJ)Cross Street Center=(C)

WEEKLY EXERCISE AND NUTRITION CLASS SCHEDULE

(PLEASE CUT OUT AND SAVE)

Monday:  Keep Moving Walking Club** – 9:15 a.m. (H) / Tai Chi – 11:30 a.m. (H) / Fit-4-Life Group C – 1:00 p.m. (H)

Tuesday: Strengthening – 9:15 a.m. – $3 per class (H) / Fit-4-Life – 11:15 a.m. (C) / Bike Club – 12:15 p.m. (H)

Wednesdays:  Fit-4-Life  – Group A (exercise) – 8:45 a.m. / Group B (nutrition) – 9 a.m./ Group B (exercise) – 10:00 a.m. (H) / Group C (nutrition) – noon (H) / Group C (exercise) – 1:00 p.m. (H) / Zumba 4 All – 5:15 p.m. – $3/class (H)

Thursdays:  Yoga – 9:00 a.m. (H) / Strengthening – 9:30 a.m. – $3 per class (RJ) / Fit-4-Life – 11:15 a.m. (C) /  LBT Fit-4-Life, 6:00 p.m. (H)

Fridays: Fit-4-Life – Group A – 8:45 a.m. (H) / Fit-4-Life – Group B – 10:00 a.m. (H) /Group A (nutrition) 10:00 a.m. (H)

Adventure Group – Please call for details

*All Fit-4-Life classes are $10 per month and require pre-registration

** Keep Moving Walking Club is on hiatus until the Spring

HOLLAND STREET GROUP INFORMATION

Mens Group – Meets the first Tuesday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This group is facilitated by our volunteer, Norbert DeAmato.  Are you recently retired?  Looking to connect with other men in the community?  Join our men’s group where you can connect with old friends and make new ones.  All men 55 and over are welcome. Come chat about what is on your mind! If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call  617-625-6600 Ext. 2300.

Caregiver Support Group – Meets the third Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Our Social Worker, Ashley Speliotis, facilitates this group.  Are you caring for a parent, relative, spouse or close friend?  Feeling isolated or overwhelmed?  You are not alone!  Come share your experience and practical support.  Open to all and new members are always welcome.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Ashley at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2318.

Veterans Group – Meets the third Monday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.  Our volunteer, Norbert DeAmato, facilitates this group.  Are you a veteran?  The Veterans Group is the perfect opportunity to socialize, have solidarity, to reminisce and to meet other veterans. If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call 617-625-6600 Ext. 2300.

Low Vision Support Group – Meets the second Tuesday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  Our Social Worker, Ashley Speliotis, facilitates this group.  Do you know someone who has trouble seeing?  Do you have low vision?  Join our Low Vision Support Group for educational and informative information and peer support in a confidential environment.  Lunch and transportation may be available on request.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Ashley at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2318.

Current Events Group – Meets every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Our Social Worker, Natasha Naim, facilitates this group.  Join a group of your peers to discuss current events.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Natasha at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2317.

Book Club – Meets the third Friday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This group self-facilitates.  Group members choose both fiction and non-fiction titles on a quarterly basis.  Books are available on reserve at the Central Branch of the Somerville Library.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call 617-625-6600 Ext. 2300.

Gardening Club – Meets the second Monday of each month starting at 9:00 a.m. and running for an hour most times.  Principal Master Gardener, Vilma Sullivan, facilitates this group.  A different topic each month ranging from gardening tips & secrets to inexpensive “greenhouses.”  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call 617-625-6600 Ext. 2300.

Senior Housing 101 –Meets the last Tuesday of every month from 10:00 to 11:30 A.M.  Social Worker, Natasha Naim will be facilitating this group.  Participants can learn about the range of options that older adults have when thinking about where to live. If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Natasha at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2317.

Conversations of the Heart – Meets bi-monthly on Mondays from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. at our Holland Street Center.  Social Worker, Natasha Naim, facilitates this group.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Natasha at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2317.

De-cluttering support group: – If you have concerns around your clutter, this group may be for you. This closed group meets both in spring and fall for 6-8 weeks. This group is co-facilitated by Natasha Naim and Marina Colonas. If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Natasha at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2317.

Golden Gals:  a.k.a. Women’s Group – Meets the last Tuesday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Social Worker, Ashley Speliotis, facilities this group.  A fun, safe, social group to discuss women’s issues and growing older.  November 28th and December 26th – For more information, please call Ashley at 617-625-6600 ext. 2318.

Moonlighters (Senior Chorus) – Meets every Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Holland Street Center.  The Moonlighters are facilitated by Jimmy DelPonte and runs September through June.  For more information please call617-625-6600, ext. 2300.

CROSS STREET GROUP INFORMAITON

English Conversation – Meets every Monday, Tuesday & Thursday beginning at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Maureen Bastardi, Program Coordinator and Sandy Francis, Cross Street Center Volunteer, work together to facilitate this group.  No books, no tests, no stress – just a great group of older adults from all over the world who help each other to listen, speak and learn English.  Continue conversation throughout a healthy lunch.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Maureen at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335.

Arts & Crafts – On hiatus until after the 1st of the year. Join us in a relaxing atmosphere as we learn about a wide range of arts & crafts from weaving to watercolor pencils.  Maureen Bastardi, Program Coordinator facilitates this group.   Must call a week in advance if you plan on attending.  If you are interested in joining, have any questions or require additional information please call Maureen at         617-625-6600, ext. 2335.

Social Service Drop In – The 3rd Thursday of every month Social Workers, Ashley Speliotis and Natasha Naim will be taking turns and having a Drop-in Social Service hour from 11:00 a.m. to noon at the Cross Street Center.  They will be available to address any of your Social Service needs.  Stop by or if you need additional information please call Maureen at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335.

CENTER LOCATIONS, TIMES & SCHEDULES

Holland Street Senior Center: located at 167 Holland Street

(between Davis Square and Teele Square)

Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Fridays:  9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

617-625-6600, Ext. 2300

__________________________________________________________________

Cross Street Center: located at 165 Broadway

(East Somerville)

Mondays & Tuesdays – 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Thursdays – 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

617-625-6600, Ext. 2335

Fax:  617-625-1414

__________________________________________________________________

Ralph and Jenny Center: located at 9 New Washington Street,

(behind the Holiday Inn)

Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

617- 666-5223

__________________________________________________________________

Main Office: located at 167 Holland Street

(between Davis Square and Teele Square.)

Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday:  8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Thursday:  8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Friday:  8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

617-625-6600, Ext. 2300

Fax:  617-625-0688

TTY:  866-808-4851

SCHEDULE

Every Monday

10:00 Moonlighters (H)

10:00 English Conversation (C)

11:30 Lunch (C)

Every Tuesday

10:00 English Conversation (C)

11:30 Lunch (C, RJ)

12:00 Computer tutorial with Norbert (H)

12:45 Bingo (RJ)

Every Wednesday

9:00 Bowling at Flatbreads

9:45 Coffee & Conversations (H)

10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Wacky Wednesdays (RJ)

Every Thursday

10:00 Current Events (H)

10:00 English Conversation (C)

11:00 Computer tutorial with Barbara (H)

11:30 Lunch (C, H, RJ)

1:00 Arts & Crafts (C)

Every Friday

9:45 Coffee & Conversations (H)

11:30 Lunch (H)

11:45 Bingo (H)

1st Monday of every month:   9:30 Monthly Breakfast at Highlander Café

1st Tuesday of every month:   10:30 Men’s Group (H)

2nd Monday of every month:   9:00 Gardening Club (H)

1:00 Conversations of the Heart (H)

2nd Tuesday of every month:   10:30 Low Vision Group (H)

3rd Thursday of every month:   10:00 Blood Pressure Screening (H)

3rd Monday of every month: 9:30 Veteran’s Group (H)

3rd Tuesday of every month:   6:00 Caregivers Support Group (H)

3rd Friday of every month:   10:00 Book Club (H)

4th Monday of every month:   1:00 Conversations of the Heart (H)

4th Thursday of every month:   9:00 Community Food Program (RJ)

The last Tuesday of every month:   10:00 Senior Housing 101 (H)

The last Tuesday of every month: 10:30 Golden Gals (Women’s Group) (H)

DID YOU KNOW?

We have a Facebook page.  Check us out at www.facebook.com/somervilleCOA

You can receive our monthly newsletter that is always filled with useful and important information.  For a $5.00 yearly fee, you can receive it via the U.S. Postal service or a free version can be sent electronically.  Please contact Connie at 617-625-6600 Ext. 2300 to sign up. ________