The leaves have just about finished falling from the trees, which could only mean one thing: it’s time for Newton residents to start thinking about winter.

Winter can have significant effects on older adults. Slippery sidewalks, cold temperatures and snow make it difficult to move comfortably around town. Many feel a sense of isolation being in their homes for long periods of time. That’s where Newton at Home’s Winter Buddies Program can help.

The annual program, which runs from December 1st through April 1st, matches a member to a volunteer buddy who lives in close proximity. The volunteer buddy contacts the member buddy to warn about coming storms and assess the need for essential supplies such as food, water and medications. Winter Buddies also assesses plans for snow removal and remind members to charge cell phones and keep batteries handy. The buddy will call every day during a storm and connect the member to appropriate help if needed.

“I love being a winter buddy because with a very small time commitment, I make a big difference in my buddy Ethne’s life,” said Vicki Ritterband, a Newton at Home Volunteer. “She often tells me how much safer she feels when there’s an impending snow storm, knowing I’ll be checking in to make sure she’s prepared. And we’ve become good friends— all year round!”

The Winter Buddies Program is open to all Newton at Home members. Call the office at 617-795-2560 for more information. Interested in volunteering as a Winter Buddy to a Newton at Home member? Contact Julie

Plaut Mahoney at partnershipsandvolunteers@newtonathome.org.

Newton at Home is a non-profit membership organization designed to help Newton residents 60 years of age and older live active, more independent and connected lives in their own homes and apartments through access to a broad variety of social programs and practical services. NAH membership also benefits the families

of members who gain peace of mind knowing that their loved ones have access to an enormous support

network. NAH plays an important role in the larger community, too, offering both young and old a meaningful

opportunity to become involved in community service.

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