The Waterford Community Coalition (WCC) and Waterford Township have come together to launch a new Senior Chore Program aimed at providing vital services to local seniors. This initiative is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and supported by Oakland County and the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA). The program will help seniors stay safe and comfortable in their homes by offering assistance with tasks like lawn care, snow removal, seasonal yard cleanup, tree trimming, and gutter cleaning.
The story of this partnership began in April 2024 when the Waterford Senior Center approached the Waterford Community Coalition to explore applying for a Senior Chore Program grant offered by OLHSA, with funding from the Oakland County Executive and Board of Commissioners. They allocated $3 million in ARPA funds to support senior chore services, with Waterford Township eligible to receive $130,000 from this grant.
Recognizing the opportunity to address a pressing need in the community, the Waterford Community Coalition took the initiative to proactively design much of the Senior Chore Program before approaching the Township. Their proposal included a comprehensive plan for services such as lawn care, snow removal, seasonal yard cleanup, tree and bush trimming, and gutter cleaning—tasks that can be challenging for seniors to manage on their own.
The Waterford Community Coalition's proactive approach, foresight, and well-prepared plan made it easier for the Township to support the initiative, leading to a swift collaboration aimed at ensuring the program's success. The Coalition proposed taking on a support and community outreach role, drawing on their expertise and strong local connections to effectively engage and support the community.
The Senior Chore Program is designed to provide valuable support to seniors who may struggle with maintaining their homes due to age, physical limitations, or financial constraints. The tasks covered under the program—such as lawn care and snow removal—are essential for seniors to maintain safe and accessible living environments.
For seniors who wish to apply for assistance through the Senior Chore Program, please visit: APPLICATION
With the collaborative efforts of the Waterford Community Coalition, Waterford Township, and the support of Oakland County and OLHSA, this program will ensure that services reach those who need them the most, easing the burdens of many seniors in the community. Not only does it provide necessary physical labor, but it also fosters a sense of community and solidarity, ensuring seniors feel valued and supported.
The Waterford Community Coalition’s partnership with Waterford Township is a shining example of how local organizations and government entities can work together to address the needs of the community. By proactively identifying funding opportunities and designing impactful programs, the Coalition has set a powerful precedent for future collaborations that benefit local residents.
As the Senior Chore Program rolls out, the Coalition remains committed to ensuring its success through outreach, monitoring, and continuous community engagement. Together with Waterford Township, they are creating a stronger, more connected community where seniors can thrive.
This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and serves as a testament to the positive impact that thoughtful, community-driven initiatives can have on improving the lives of residents. For Waterford Township seniors, the future just got a little brighter.
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Federal, State, and/or County funding has been provided through the Oakland Community Health Network/Office of Substance Use Disorders to support the project costs.