Council On Aging
Hadley Council on Aging Mission Statement
Our mission is to support and connect older adults of Hadley, age 60 and over—a town rooted in farming traditions and shaped by a growing, changing community. We provide programs, resources, and a welcoming place where everyone is valued and respected. No matter your background, identity, or life situation, you are part of our community, and you are welcome here.
Current Services Include (Alphabetical Order):
Amherst Survival Center Senior Mobile Nutrition Program:
Monthly distribution of produce, meat, and groceries at the Senior Center. To enroll, contact the Amherst Survival Center Food Pantry Coordinator at 413-549-3968 x104 or pantry@amherstsurvival.org. Participants must pick up their food; delivery is not available.
Brown Bag Food Program (Monthly):
Monthly food distribution is available. To apply, contact the Food Bank of Western MA at 413-247-9738 or apply online.
Congregate Meals:
Highland Valley Elder Services provides individually packaged lunches available for dine-in or takeout. Volunteer delivery is available for those unable to pick up meals. Please call at least two business days in advance to place an order.
Cooling and Warming Center:
The Senior Center serves as a cooling center during heatwaves and a warming center during cold weather emergencies. Hours will be announced as needed via the town’s Nixle notification system (phone and text alerts). The center is located in the dining room and is open to all Hadley residents.
Foot Care Clinics:
Foot care services are available by appointment, with two clinic days each month.
Medical Equipment Loans & Sharps Disposal:
The Senior Center offers medical equipment such as walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs for loan. Donations of clean, gently used equipment are appreciated. Please call ahead before bringing donations, as storage space and needs may vary. We also accept sharps in properly sealed, approved bio-hazard containers only. Loose or improperly contained sharps will not be accepted. Replacement sharps containers are available as a courtesy of the Board of Health.
Outreach Services:
Outreach Coordinator Lauren Hannigan is available by appointment to assist with social services, MassHealth applications, public benefits, and other individual needs.
Programs & Activities:
A variety of programs and activities are offered as part of our services. Please refer to our newsletter for current schedules and detailed information.
S.H.I.N.E. (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone):
Hadley residents can receive assistance with health insurance options by meeting with SHINE Counselor. Call the reception desk (x6) to schedule an appointment.
Technology Support & Computer Lab:
We offer one-on-one assistance for phones, tablets, and laptops, including troubleshooting and guidance based on your needs. Appointments are available at the Senior Center.
Our team of volunteers can also provide home visits, troubleshoot by phone, or meet with you at the Senior Center for personalized support.
In addition, we offer multi-level technology classes and access to a computer lab to help build skills and confidence.
Transportation (Van & Subaru Program):
Our transportation program serves Hadley residents age 60 and over and operates Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:15 AM–1:00 PM. Suggested donation: $2.00 round trip within Hadley, $4.00 round trip outside of Hadley; companions/aides ride free.
Rides must be requested by phone and are scheduled after confirmation from the Transportation Coordinator. Please call Outreach Coordinator Lauren Hannigan at 586-4023 x3 for route details and to request rides.
Volunteer drivers may be available for out-of-town medical appointments Monday–Friday between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM; please call at least three business days in advance. Rides are not confirmed until a volunteer is assigned.
Council on Aging Board Members:
- Jan Peterson, Chair
- Sarah Chadwick, Vice Chair
- David Storey, Treasurer
- Linda Michalopoulos, Secretary
- Thomas V. Giles
- Ed Golding
- Rosalie Weinberg