As it becomes more difficult for some seniors to remain active, they may become isolated from their community. This is especially true of those who have little support from family members or friends. The United Way’s Area Agency on Aging and Meals on Wheels, Inc. are spearheading the Neighbor Helping Neighbor program in Tarrant County to help socially isolated seniors (age 60 and older) enjoy better, safer lives while remaining in their own homes. These agencies are recreating a structure for what we once knew in days gone by — neighbors helping neighbors in close-knit communities.

The NHN program seeks to reduce the effects of senior isolation by facilitating service delivery, providing case management to isolated seniors, and building a sustainable network of community volunteers and service providers.

More than 4,000 older adults have been served through the Neighbor Helping Neighbor program throughout Tarrant County. The purpose of this community-based project is to coordinate informal and formal services while reducing social isolation among senior residents. Volunteers and professionals from neighborhood and church groups, city government, businesses, and human service organizations are all involved in providing a variety of services. These services include minor home repairs, errand assistance, wheelchair ramps, safety equipment, yard maintenance, food bank pick-up, household chores, friendly visits by phone and in person, information about and referral to services, and meals.

To find out more, refer someone to the program, or learn how you can help, contact:
Nansii Downer, Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator
817-258-6441, nansii@mealsonwheels.org

Neighbor Helping Neighbor is a collaboration of the United Way’s Area Agency on Aging and Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County.