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Updated at: 12/25/2009 6:15 PM Local Program Keeps Seniors at HomeIrma LaBelle began using the Community Partners program four years ago after she had a heart attack. They brought her groceries, drove her to medical appointments, and allowed her to keep living in her home while she recovered.Now 94, Irma still uses the Meals on Wheels program. She says the food is great, but the companionship from volunteers is better. "I even get hugs sometimes when I give them cinnamon rolls," said Irma. "Who wouldn't like that at my age?" Community Partners is a Living At Home-Block Nurse program. Program Director Kirsten Cruikshank says it's a way for smaller towns and communities to help their senior citizens live independently and save a lot of money in the process. "They could be saving up to six thousand dollars a month," Cruikshank. "That's about what a nursing home costs." Silver Bay and McGregor also have similar organizations. Here in Two Harbors, 260 residents like Irma get regular visits from these volunteers happy to lend a hand. "Anything from taking out the garbage, to putting in eye drops, to helping with cleaning or chores around the home," said Cruikshank. Like many local organizations, it's been a tough year for the program. Cruikshank says they lost $24,000 in grant money. But fortunately, Cruikshank says they recently got another grant and should be back on track in the new year. Good news for folks like Irma, who says without the program, she would have to move to a nursing home. "I have all my own things and memories of my husband," she sad. "It means an awful lot to be here. I think that would be the end of me." Cruikshank says the program still needs community donations to keep these volunteers bringing warm meals and smiles to waiting residents. Larger cities like Duluth and Minneapolis are also exploring the Living At Home-Block Nurse program. |
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