Greetings and Happy Fall to All!
Maureen Grannan | Published on 10/21/2022
This is a good time for us to share some information with our members and volunteers. As members who use our transportation services, you can attest to the fact that there has been some difficulty in filling some of your ride requests. There are a variety of reasons for this that are occurring simultaneously: several of our volunteer drivers have been laid up with Covid, driving into Boston has become increasingly difficult with the increase in traffic, and several volunteers have taken well deserved Fall vacations at the same time. We also are experiencing a huge increase in ride requests for medical appointments as physicians have opened up their in person appointments again.
We are extremely grateful for and proud of our volunteers who step up on a daily basis to assist our members in many ways! We would not be able to assist our members without the tireless help of these volunteers who give so much of their time, energy and caring.
At this time we have launched a large recruitment campaign for volunteers who would be drivers. We are fortunate to have brought in 6 new volunteers in the last couple of weeks and we are receiving new applications every day. Please feel free to spread the word to your friends that we are welcoming new volunteers to Newton at Home who can share in the very rewarding experience of helping our wonderful members. As you know, many of you have benefitted from our large array of services and programs. These include technology assistance, handyman task, grocery shopping and friendly visits as well as transportation. Please feel free to ask for those services as well.
We have been and will continue to prioritize, for now, medical rides (physicians, dentists, physical therapy & dialysis), so that members can attend their in-person appointments. We ask for your help in remembering to schedule your rides/services 5-7 days in advance. This gives us the time that we need to contact and coordinate with our volunteers to ensure that your needs are met. Your patience and flexibility have been very much appreciated by the staff. We are hopeful that we can all remain Covid free and that we can continue to work together to successfully meet your needs. We are all still recovering from the pandemic and our patience and persistence is critical at this time.
Please feel free to call the office if you have any concerns
Warmly,
Maureen