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Social Support Services

Social Worker - Suzanne Norton 

The Jenks Center Social Worker connects Winchester residents with information, programs and services. 

Days/Times: Monday – Friday 9:00 – 4:00 PM

Location: The Jenks Center (Social Workers Office is Located on Lower Level)

Services: Social Support Services Include:

  • Enrichment and lifelong learning programs

  • Information/referral and short-term case management/counseling services

  • Assistance with unmet needs

  • Consultation on life changes

If you have any questions, please email Suzanne Norton at snorton@winchester.us or call 781-721-7136 (ext. 15).

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Vulnerable Residents Reporting System

In an effort to assist families with “at risk” members, including special needs, autism, dementia etc., the Winchester Police Department offers a Vulnerable Residents program.  If you feel that a member of your family is at risk to wander, we strongly recommend you participate in the program.  To do so, fill out the Vulnerable Residents form below and attach a current photo of your family member.  By doing so, you will assist this department in locating your family member if the need arises.  You will also be providing us with information that could help us understand how to communicate with the at-risk individual and how to contact family members if an at-risk member is found.  The information you provide also enables us to pass on important medical information to medical personal if needed.

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Complete the form below and email it to detectives@winchesterpd.org

Winchester Public Safety officials working in partnership with the Council on Aging professional staff and Meals on Wheels staff would like to identify any vulnerable person who resides in Winchester for public safety use in the event of an emergency only.   The following confidential information is needed to add a vulnerable person to the Public Safety Dispatch Center computer system:

Complete the relevant form and email it to detectives@winchesterpd.org

Here’s the link to the description and form: Winchester Police Department » Vulnerable Residents

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The Elder at Risk Reporting System

Adult Protective Services Program: Worried about someone over 60 that might be at Risk? The Adult Protective Services program, powered by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence, is only able to investigate cases of abuse where the individual:

  • Is 60 or older

  • Resides in Massachusetts and lives in the community, as opposed to a long-term care setting​

You can report abuse and neglect of adults 60 or older either by phone at (800) 922-2275 or online anytime. Anyone who has a concern of possible abuse of an adult who is 60+ can file a report. Reports can be filed anonymously.

If you are a mandated reported (e.g., doctor, first responder, social worker), please visit the mandated reporter portal to file a report. 

To report abuse of an adult under the age of 60, contact the Disabled Persons Protection Commission at (800) 426-9009. To report abuse of a patient by nursing home or hospital staff, contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at (800) 462-5540.

Report Abuse of Adults Aged 60+ | Mass.gov

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Caregivers Support Group

This group provides an opportunity for sharing, understanding, awareness and support.  Meets the 4th Thursday of each month, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 

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Financial Counseling

Workshops and individual counseling, by appointment only.

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Handyman Services

Volunteers coordinated by the Social Worker perform handyman services. This self-supporting program provides small repairs and safety work for Winchester seniors. Requests for assistance are coordinated by our Social Worker. 

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Snow Shoveling

Each year the Jenks maintains a list of individuals and businesses available if you are a resident in need of assistance with shoveling.  Please click the link Snow Shoveling to get more information. For clients with additional needs, e-mail the social worker at the Jenks Center at snorton@winchester.us or call 781-721-7136 (ext. 15).

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Interface Mental Health Referral Helpline

Do you or someone you love need help finding mental health services? Interface Referral Service is a free and confidential resource which connects Winchester residents with mental health professionals. The referral helpline is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and may be reached at 888-244-6843.

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SHINE Counselors

SHINE is an acronym for “Serving the Health Needs of Elders.” SHINE Counselors are volunteers who provide information, counseling, and assistance regarding health insurance and health benefit options. They understand the nuances of this changing field and help seniors maneuver through the system. Appointments required.

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Meals at Home for Seniors

Please Click the Link for more information: Meals at Home for Seniors

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Aging is an extraordinary process where you become the person you always should have been."

David Bowie

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