Programs with the Dedham Council on Aging: AARP tax preparation



Common Content
 |  Wicked Local

             The Senior Center is at 450 Washington St.; 781-326-1650, www.dedham-ma.gov/coa

            The center continues to offer lots of activities on Dedham TV, online and in person at the Park and Recreation Dolan Center.

            Small classes, in large rooms with preregistration and social distancing and masks required.

We are encouraging all our seniors to connect with us, whether via zoom, online classes or Dedham TV. You can also give us a call anytime to chat or ask your questions.

            The COA will be closed Monday, Jan. 18, for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Holiday thanks

            Senior Center Director Leanne Jasset would like to thank all the generous folks that helped us support the Mitten Tree Project this year. The project was able to fulfill the wishes of more than 35 seniors, who otherwise might have very little this holiday season.

            Special thanks go to the Goddard School, the Dedham Police Department, state Sen. Mike Rush and state Rep. Paul McMurtry, Stop & Shop, the Town Hall staff, the Dedham Housing Authority staff, the COA staff, and everyone who contributed or assisted with the Mitten Tree donations and distribution.

            The COA would also like to thank everyone who contributed to the Food Pantry drive and who have volunteered to help with the Food Pantry deliveries, both ongoing and the holiday dinner deliveries, including the Dedham Police Department and the Dedham Housing Authority.

Tax Preparation

            The COA will be offering our AARP tax preparers beginning in February, so call anytime after Jan. 4 and make an appointment.

            All services will be by appointment only, and remember, because of the pandemic, no one will be allowed to stay at the center before or after their appointment. You are required to wear a mask and socially distance during your appointment.

Transportation

            We are offering our own transportation in a limited manner. We are taking reservations for grocery shuttles, based on neighborhoods and three people max for each group. Those who can independently get on the bus will be eligible. Please call us with questions.

            We are still assisting with rides to medical appointments locally and through the HESSCO and MAPC grant programs. If you find yourself in an urgent situation, call the Senior Center at 781-326-1650.

            The COA has announced that it has received a grant from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to provide transportation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

            The eligible riders will be

            1. Seniors (over age 60)

            2. Veterans or

            3. Disabled Adults.

            We can provide transportation via taxi to doctor appointments, and other vital trips.

            Please call the Dedham COA during business hours at 781-326-1650. Advance notice is requested. (We will now offer rides to medical appointments within a 10-mile radius)

            We also encourage all qualified seniors to enroll with The Ride, the MBTA service for those who cannot access public transportation due to physical limitations or cognitive limitations. The phone number to contact The Ride for enrollment inquiries is 617-337-2727.

Dedham Food Pantry

            The Food Pantry will be open from 1:30-3 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month for senior citizens only (this month, Jan. 13 and 27). No clients are entering the Pantry at this time.

            Selected products are in the Food Pantry bags, which are given to each household.

            Don’t forget, the Food Pantry moved to the old Panera building in Dedham Plaza. Those seniors who can drive their own car, curbside pickup is available.

             If you cannot access food, please call the Council on Aging and we will assist with your needs.

Featured events

            Gardening with Sara Workshop, Jan. 22, 1 p.m.

            To reserve a spot, RSVP to 781-326-1650, or email tjoyce@dedham-ma.gov. The event will take place at the greenhouse at Endicott Estate.

            Also – the Endicott Estate Greenhouse is offering raised beds for seniors. Rent a bed at the greenhouse from March through October for $25.

            Contact Bev McNeil at motveb4@gmail.com.

Fitness classes at the Dolan Center

            1. No walk-ins! Everyone MUST sign up with the COA before attending. Sign up on Friday for classes the next week, 781-326-1650.

            2. Class is limited to eight people.

            3. Everyone will be required to answer a brief COVID screening each class

            4. Everyone must wear a mask!

            5. Room is cleaned after each class 

            6. Do not come to class if you are not feeling well

            Any questions or concerns, please call 781-326-1650.

            Tuesdays/Thursdays, Tai Chi with Wanda, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

            Tuesdays/Thursdays, Strength/Conditioning, 1-2 p.m.

            Wednesdays, Chair Yoga with Grace, 1 p.m.

            Fridays, Movement to Music, 10:30-11:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.