Lafayette Community Foundation Board Member Marechal Duncan hands over a check for $3,000 to Elaine Welch of Senior Helpline Services at the charity's office near Our Savior's Lutheran Church on Carol Lane. Photo Cathy Tyson

Who doesn't want to help out a service that provides a lift to get seniors to their doctor's appointments and more? Generous support of worthy local non-profits has been the Lafayette Community Foundation's (LCF) mission since 1999. Senior Helpline Services recently received a $3,000 grant from the LCF. The non-profit charitable organization helps seniors in Lafayette and throughout Contra Costa County to safely age in place by providing free transportation, regular outreach to isolated elders through their Reassurance Phone Friends Program along with information and referrals for a variety of services.
"I have never met a senior whose bucket list includes living in a nursing home," said a very grateful Elaine Welch, Executive Director of Senior Helpline Services. "Mobility equals independence," she added, explaining their escorted door through door service and help with packages or groceries can be a critical component of supporting the elderly who prefer to live at home, but may need some help. Roughly 130 volunteers donate their time to transport seniors to medical appointments and for other basic necessities. Welch joked that her MBA stands for "Master of Begging and Advocacy." Looks like her degree is paying off.
Volunteer drivers and funding are always in short supply; for more information contact Senior Helpline Services at (925) 284-2207 or go to www.seniorhelpline.net.

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