Fuel Assistance Program Reminder—Do not wait to apply!
It is time to sign up for Vermont’s Seasonal Heating Fuel Assistance Program (“LIHEAP”), which can offset winter heating costs from a few hundred to even a few thousand dollars. This program can help you lower your bills whether you heat with oil, kerosene, propane, electric, coal, wood pellets, or cordwood. More information and 1:1 application assistance is available on Fridays by appointment by calling The Thompson Center.
Free at-home COVID-19 tests
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are completely free. Please use this link: https://www.covidtests.gov/. The Thompson also has a number of rapid tests available for participants and families.
Here to Help You During a Crisis
The HUB:
Is a new program that makes it easier for you to get help during a time of need.
Is a central point of contact for you.
Is a connection with an experienced community volunteer who responds quickly and will help you get assistance.
Is confidential and respectful of your situation, whether due to divorce, job loss, family illness, financial stress, and food or heat insecurity.
Can help you if you live in Barnard, Bridgewater, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Reading, or Woodstock.
Works with many local organizations such as Barnard Helping Hands and Ottauquechee Health Foundation.
Four Ways to Contact The HUB
- Online: Complete an application at: https://apply.thehubneighbors.org/form
- Phone: 802-457-7214
- Email: apply@thehubneighbors.org
- Pick up an application outside the Ottauquechee Health Foundation office at
Simmons House at 30 Pleasant Street, Woodstock.
The HUB is a Project of Woodstock Community Trust, a non-profit 501c3 organization.
Living a Healthy Life: Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
This is a virtual event offered by the Dartmouth Health Aging Resource Center
Wednesdays, Beginning January 11 – February 15 2023
9:30 am to 12:00 pm
This is a free 6-week, online, evidence-based program to help you with symptoms of chronic illness. Participants will receive a copy of the book “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions,” an exercise CD, and a relaxation CD. They will also make weekly action plans, share experiences, and help each other address any issues with their self-management.
If you have any questions or would like to register, call 603-653-6847 or email Sharon.M.Feeney@hitchock.org. Space is limited.
Carla Kamel and the Community Health Team
Friday Office Hours at The Thompson, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Community Care Coordinator, Carla Kamel, is available for support in navigating resources and discussing community-based services. Carla expertly and compassionately can identify your needs and goals, and provide information, support and connection to resources to meet individual goals. She is available at the Ottauquechee Health Center (OHC) for a health and social wellness phone visit at 457-5414 or at carla.kamel@mahhc.org, even if it’s a five-minute phone conversation. While walk-ins are welcome, making an appointment is advised by calling The Thompson.
Help make products better for older adults!
Provide Feedback | Make a Difference | Earn for yourself and The Thompson
Get paid for your opinion and raise money for The Thompson! Join our product research group and participate in focus groups and interviews that allow you to directly influence the direction of products built for you. Projects are virtual or in-person and you only participate when you want to. There is no obligation and you’ll never be asked for money.
This innovative project is a partnership between The Thompson and SnowDay, a market research company specializing in products and services for older adults. Please reach out to Deanna with any questions or contact Shari to sign-up.
In-person Tech Support Returns to The Thompson
Appointments on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of the month, 12:30-2:30 pm
In collaboration with the Norman Williams Public Library, you can now get 1:1 tech support at The Thompson. Bring in your mobile phones, laptops, iPads and any other type of tablet device you need help with. Multiple devices can be brought to one appointment. Call Shari to book your 1 hour appointment, and don’t forget your passwords!
Foot Clinic at The Thompson Center with Beverly Sinclair, RN
January 19, February 16, 9:00 – 2:30 pm
Cost: $30 payable by cash or check. Towels are supplied.
Call for your appointment.
Beverly Sinclair has been a practicing registered nurse for 22 years with extensive experience as a staff nurse and in nurse management. She has been providing local foot care service for older Vermonters for the past 6 years.
Reflexology at The Thompson!
Enjoy Reflexology to Relax, Rejuvenate, & Reboot Your Body
2nd and 4th Tuesday, Please call for availability
Certified Reflexologist Deborah Neuhof is offering appointments at The Thompson. Please call Shari to schedule your appointment on the second or fourth Tuesdays of the month. $35 for 30 minute hand or foot treatment or $65 for 60 minutes.
Please wear loose fitting clothing and arrive a few minutes early to complete a health & disclaimer form. All clients must be fully vaccinated. Face coverings are required during your treatment.
Advance Directive Assistance is Available
Would your loved ones know your wishes about medical care if you were unable to speak for yourself? An Advance Directive spells out your wishes and appoints someone to represent you if you are not able. Trained and caring volunteer will be at the Thompson each month on a Monday afternoon. These volunteers will take the time to explain this simple process. Call The Thompson at 802-457-3277 to schedule an appointment.
Homesharing is working in our Community!
This past year we launched our pilot Homeshare program here at the Thompson, which has resulted in our first match! With a small pool of applicants, it takes time to find compatible housemates, but the more people who apply, the more likely we can facilitate a successful match.
Homesharing offers an alternative to traditional apartment rentals, especially in today’s tight housing market. A Host with a spare bedroom and willing to share common space can get some additional income and help around the house with chores, as well as companionship. A Guest looking for a place to live can trade some time helping out their Host in exchange for a reduced rent.
To learn more about Thompson Homeshare, please visit our Homeshare page or call Shari at 802-457-3277.
Caregiver Support Group with Complimentary Lunch
In-person 2nd Tuesday of each month at 12:00 pm
Virtual participation still available upon request
Support and education can make a critical difference for family members and caregivers of patients with memory loss or disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Please join our confidential monthly support group (with complimentary lunch) on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and share ideas, concerns, and constructive feedback with others facing similar challenges. Pre-register for lunch.