News Notes

Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Nicole Garrity (standing), Adult Day Program manager, with two members of the program at the agency’s Springvale location.

Photo: Southern Maine Agency on Aging

Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan

Offering a home away from home for older adults: Caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other dementia is rewarding, but can also cause worry, stress and isolation. Adult Day Programs at Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA) in Springvale and Biddeford offer mentally and socially engaging activities for its members as well as much-needed respite for caregivers. FMI on the program, go to SMAA or contact Nicole Garrity at 207–396–6508 or ngarrity@smaaa.org.

Calling all knitters and crocheters: St. Thérèse of Lisieux Parish has announced that the Daughters of Isabella is seeking hats and mittens for youth in the community. Anyone interested in donating to this cause or getting more information may contact Paula Roy at 207-219-1282. The Order of the Daughters of Isabella is a charitable organization of practicing Catholic women founded on the principles of unity, friendship and charity.

New law enforcement graduate at SPD: The Sanford Police Department has announced that Officer Brandon Wambolt has graduated from the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, calling out his hard work and dedication throughout the training program. Congratulations, Officer Wambolt!

Kids, cozy up with some good books this winter! Springvale Library’s Winter Reading Program, Bundle Up and Read! runs from Jan. 6 to March 8. Children ages 2 to 13 are invited to finish three backpack bundles during this period to earn a free book and a treat, which will be handed out during Prize Week, March 3 to 8. Each backpack bundle has books, puzzles and activities based on a theme.

Local volunteer finds purpose and connection helping veterans: Sanford resident Matt Rouillard got a shout-out from Travis Mills for volunteering to help veterans adjust to life following traumatic injury. The Travis Mills Foundation issued a press release expressing gratitude for Rouillard’s dedication, which has made a “lasting impact” on the lives of post-9/11 veterans and their families, according to Mills, who founded the Belgrade Lakes-based organization to help injured veterans recalibrate their lives to a new normal following traumatic injury. Rouillard, whose brother, father and grandfathers served in the military, has spent decades contributing to veterans’ causes, according to the press release. At the foundation, Rouillard has done groundskeeping and light carpentry and led sport fishing trips. “I’ve always had great respect for veterans,” Matt shared. “When I learned about SSG Travis Mills’ incredible story of perseverance and how the foundation helps veterans, I knew I wanted to be involved.”

Need help navigating unemployment insurance? The York County Career Center at 9 Bodwell Court, Springvale, offers in-person Unemployment Insurance assistance every Thursday from 9 am to 3 pm. Claims may also be filed at any time at the Maine Department of Labor’s Bureau of Unemployment Insurance self-service portal or by phone at 800-593-7660 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 3 pm.

Evan Ainsworth, who recently earned his Eagle Scout rank with Scouts BSA Troop 327 in Sanford, sports a very crowded merit badge sash.

Scouts BSA Troop 327

Local scout soars like an eagle: Evan Ainsworth, a member of Scouts BSA Troop 327 in Sanford, earned his Eagle Scout rank, the highest rank possible, on Dec. 18. He is the troop’s 63rd Eagle. Congratulations on this achievement, Evan!

Can you talk on the phone? SMAA needs you: Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA) is seeking Phone Pal volunteers to talk to older adults in need of social connection. Phone Pals are paired with an older adult with similar interests for a weekly, friendly conversation. This volunteer opportunity offers a flexible schedule and time commitment and can be carried out from any location. It also provides a great opportunity for socializing, networking and engaging with the community. Virtual training is provided. FMI, email volunteer@smaaa.org.

Make 2025 your year to be of service to others: The Center for Grieving Children is seeking volunteer Peer Support Group Facilitators to make a difference in the lives of grieving children, teens, young adults and adults. The center still has space available in its next two volunteer facilitator training sessions in January and March. All facilitators receive 30 hours of training over the course of two weeks before being placed in a peer support group. Both in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities are available. FMI, email volunteer@cgcmaine.org.

Your land can help others land on their feet: Habitat for Humanity York County is seeking land donations or opportunities to purchase land where they can build safe, affordable homes for local families. If you or someone you know has land available, call 207-985-4850 or email office@habitatyorkcounty.org.

Financial skills workshops for older adults: Many older adults are struggling to pay their bills, follow a budget, and organize their finances. To help adults aged 60+ increase their financial literacy and boost their financial awareness, the Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA) is offering free, one-hour financial skills workshops via Zoom through its Money Minders program. Upcoming workshops will cover “Income Tax and Mail Organization 101” (Jan. 16, 10-11 am), “Let’s Talk About Credit” (Feb. 27, 10-11 am), “The Risks and Rewards of Gambling for Older Adults” (March 27, 10-11 am), and “A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances (May 29, 10-11 am). A workshop on food resources and benefits will be planned for April, but details are not yet available. FMI, contact Susan Bergeron at sbergeron@smaaa.org or 207-396-6515. For a description of the workshops and to register, go to SMAA events.

Diapers and baby wipes needed for church program: St. George Episcopal Church is seeking donations of diapers and baby wipes during January to meet the growing demand for its Baby Blessings program. The number of families helped by the program has increased from 10 to 76 per month, according to Mal Meyer DeBruyckere, office administrator. Diapers and wipes will be accepted until Jan. 30. Sizes 3 to 7 are in high demand. Families needing diapers and wipes can get them for free with no income eligibility requirements. The next distribution is set for Jan. 25.