Outreach/SHINE
The Hamilton Council on Aging and Senior Center strives to communicate about social services/outreach services when staffing allows for Hamilton seniors. The COA director also serves as the Coordinator of Outreach and Social Services, and is certified as a volunteer SHINE counselor.
We provide outreach service information on:
- fuel assistance
- food stamps
- transportation
- support groups
- finances
- health insurance (SHINE)
- in-home care
- elder assessment
- assisted care and long-term care facilities
SHINE – Medicare Counseling
The SHINE Program is administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs in partnership with elder service agencies, councils on aging or public and private community-based organizations. Certified SHINE counselors help people navigate the complex Medicare insurance system and are trained and certified volunteers. This program is free for Massachusetts residents with Medicare or who are about to enroll in Medicare or their families.
The Hamilton Council on Aging currently has 1 certified SHINE counselor volunteer. As this is a volunteer position with limited morning hours, it may take time to reserve an appointment at this time. If you need an appointment sooner, contact AgeSpan directly at 1-800-892-0890 or email [email protected] for other location options. SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) appointments should be scheduled with the Hamilton COA director. Please complete pre appointment paperwork and return to Hamilton’s Senior Center or email [email protected] prior to confirmed appointment.
Call for Volunteers – SHINE training
AgeSpan in Lawrence provides free training to become a certified SHINE counselor. In an effort to recruit volunteers with this growing need for our residents, the Hamilton COA offers travel scholarship* funding to reimburse the transportation costs of driving to and from the Lawrence training center. As a SHINE counselor, you give back to your community, sharpen and build skills, and stay engaged and connected in your community. SHINE program staff screens, trains, and certifies all volunteers so you don’t need a background in health insurance to get involved. All you need is integrity, a willingness to learn, a desire to help others, and the time to give. For a SHINE counselor application packet call 978-946-1374 and leave your name and mailing address with a request for the application. Or to register for the info session, email: [email protected].
*Travel scholarships must be pre-approved before training begins and include a commitment to support the Hamilton COA. Questions should be directed to the Town Manager’s Office.
