Senior Citizens
Community Services & Activities Senior Citizen Resource Office The
Senior Citizen Resource Office at the Community Center was formed by the Township Committee in 1975
with the help of the Committee on Aging. The Office offers free informational brochures on many topics, and
can provide assistance with I.D. cards, bus schedules, half-fare transportation, income tax preparation, Vial of
Life, dental programs, nutrition and health service referral, Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Aged (PAA), and Medicare. The Resource Office schedules the work of the Handyman Home Repair Service
which does minor repairs (carpentry, masonry, electrical, plumbing) for senior homeowners who pay only for the cost of materials. The
cost of labor is borne by the program. The handymen drive in their own van, provided through the grant. There is a maximum income limit for eligibility. Seniors may apply at the Resource Office.
Cranford Senior Citizens' Minibus Minibus service provides free transportation to senior citizens and handicapped persons between 8:30 a.m.
and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday on a fixed route covering each section of the Township once every two hours. Schedules and maps of the route, which includes a stop at the supermarket in Garwood, are available
at the Community Center. Other Driving Services Catholic Community Services
provides non-emergency, no-fee medical transportation to residents of Cranford and other Union County communities. Rides must be scheduled at least five days in advance.
Appointments may be made by calling 355-8400. Additional information and assistance may be obtained through the Recreation and Parks Department.
Senior citizens and younger residents unable to cook for themselves are served by Mobile Meals of Westfield, which provides a hot dinner and cold supper Monday through Friday. There is a moderate cost and
food stamps are accepted. To arrange for this service, call 233-6146 weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 12 noon. Retired Senior Volunteer Program The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), which operates nationwide, creates meaningful
opportunities for persons over age 60 to participate more fully in community life through volunteer service. Interests and talents are matched with assignments that can foster a sense of achievement and
self-satisfaction. Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses is available on a limited basis and there is insurance coverage for each volunteer. For information call 351-0070.
Union County Division on Aging The Union County Division on Aging, part of the County's Department of Human Resources, is an umbrella
program under which fall the various county services, resources, and activities for older residents, The Division headquartered in the Union County Courthouse, Elizabeth, telephone 527-4866.
Additional Activities and Services Additional educational, health, volunteer, and social activities are offered free to seniors locally and by the
county, state, and private agencies. These are announced through the Recreation and Parks Department and in The Cranford Chronicle
. For seniors resident at nursing homes, and shut-ins, many services are provided by churches, clubs, and civic groups, and by the Cranford Public Library. Information
- Union County Advisory Council on Aging - (908) 527-4866
- Union County Division of Aging - (908) 527-4800
- Division on Aging (State of NJ) - ( 609) 292-3766
- Senior Citizens Hotline - (800) 792-8820
- Elderly & Handicapped Transportation - (908) 233-7822
Super Links for Seniors
Elderhostel Elderhostel offers new worlds to explore with interesting, stimulating people from all walks of life. We
believe that turning 55 is just another beginning, and is the time to discover new avenues for self-enrichment. Whether traveling by yourself or with a spouse or friend, Elderhostel is a friendly,
accessible and secure way to explore new places and challenging ideas. Click here for some details and a link to Elderhostel.
SeniorLink
The "first national eldercare resource, referral and consultation web site for seniors, their families, and
providers." Access to eldercare professionals, programs, providers, facilities and agencies that have info on a variety of senior-related services.
SeniortimesSenior Living Online NewspaperSenior Information NetworkSeniors Corner
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