Supervisor Sean Walter announced the re-establishment of the Town of Riverhead Senior Citizen Advisory Council which was originally established in 1990 but became inactive a few years later. Supervisor Walter addressed the need of re-activating the committee after being approached by senior advocate and town resident, Jo Packard.
“Jo has been instrumental in getting this committee together,” said Walter. “Her enthusiasm and dedication has given new life to a committee that will provide programs and valuable resources to our senior community.”
According to the 2010 Census, Senior Citizens and those over 50 years of age represent approximately 41% of the total population of the Town of Riverhead.
“The beauty of this committee is that different facets of the community are being represented by its members to help us identify the needs of our seniors,” stated Walter. “I am grateful for this group of volunteers who give their time and talent to enrich and enhance the quality of life of our senior citizens,” Walter continued.
Jo Packard and Susan Wilk were appointed as Co-Chairpersons along with Shirley Coverdale, Harriet Gilliam, Anna Law, James Lee, Joy Rankin and Sister Margaret Smyth as members.
The committee will make recommendations as to the direction the Town can take in coordinating services and programs benefiting our aging population as well as providing them with valuable resources. In addition, they will:
· Solicit input and act as a public forum for issues that affect seniors in the Town.
· Provide advice to the Town Board based on input received to improve the programs, policies, and services provided to seniors.
· Identify barriers that seniors may experience when accessing Town services and programs.
· Form partnerships in the community to educate, inform, and improve the quality of life for seniors.
· Work with and support existing senior programs
· Disseminate information regarding available resources regarding senior programs, activities and services.
Source: Press release issued by the Office of Supervisor Sean Walter, July 9.
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