(Chelsea Update would like to thank Trinh Pifer for the information in this story.)
The Chelsea Senior Center was recently awarded an $800 grant to provide free ride passes for the Western Washtenaw Area Value Express (WAVE) bus system.
The passes are available to any senior needing help with transportation within the Chelsea School District and the WAVE service area. The grant was funded by the Rural Partners of Michigan, in partnership with the Michigan Rural Council, organizations that work on behalf of rural people and places.
In the past year, C2S2 made numerous referrals to the WAVE bus system and coordinated rides using vetted volunteers when the WAVE system was not available (holidays and after hours). This new grant will help reduce feelings of isolation that non-driving seniors may experience, as well as increase a sense of community and well-being.
Anna Elliott appreciates the WAVE bus services and rides it to visit the Chelsea Senior Center several times a week. She enjoys playing bingo and having lunch with friends and is glad to “get out and do something different.”
If you are a senior or know a senior who could benefit from receiving a free WAVE pass, please contact Mackenzie Pfeiffer, Senior Services Coordinator, by calling 475-9242 or come to the Chelsea Senior Center office at 512 Washington St., Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Chelsea Community Senior Services started as part of a collaborative effort between Silver Maples, the Chelsea Senior Center, and other local organizations wanting to bring a “village” program to Chelsea. It is a single source of support for seniors, helping them locate the resources they need and assisting in keeping seniors connected to their community. Startup funding was made available by the Chelsea Area Wellness Foundation as part of its 5-Healthy Towns initiative. Year two funding is supported by the Chelsea Community Foundation.
The Chelsea Senior Center is a 501(c) 3 non-profit located in the Washington Street Education Center. The Center’s mission is to promote, encourage, and organize activities that address the physical, social, and emotional concerns of Chelsea area senior citizens and their families.
