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Topics in this EditionAnnouncementsCommunity NewsUpcoming ProgramsResources & ServicesVolunteer OpportunitiesContact Us
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Provide Feedback on Short-Range Transit Plan in Orange CountyOrange County is seeking feedback from community members on transit service improvements. Take the online survey any time through March 31. For more information about the Short-Range Transit Plan and upcoming engagement opportunities, please visit: www.orangecountysrtp.com. Deadline to respond: March 31, 2024.
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Join Us to Update Your Local Coordinated Transportation Plan!The DCHC MPO is in the process of updating our Coordinated Transportation Plan and we are looking for your feedback! This plan is updated every five years and is a process of identifying transportation needs, providing strategies for meeting those needs, and prioritizing services to meet those needs for older adults (65+), those with low incomes, and those with disabilities. If your service areas extend beyond the DCHC MPO boundaries (which is the basis for this plan update) and into rural areas of North Carolina, you may also be interested in the Statewide Coordinated Plan. Date: Wed, April 10; Time: 1 - 3:30 pm; Location: Zoom Virtual Meeting - Link (passcode: 245360); Event Page link: Eventbrite Link
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Prescription Medications Too Expensive?Medicare’s Extra Help program reduces the price of medications for those who qualify. You must have monthly income below $1700 and savings less than $17,000. For a married couple, income must be less than $2,575 and savings below $34,500. For those who don’t qualify for that program, explore these options: - Ask your doctor and pharmacist about alternative medications that are covered on your drug plan at a lower co-pay, such as generics.
- Look for a Manufacturer Discount Program that covers your medication at www.needymeds.org.
- Check the current pricing of your medications using a Drug Discount Program. In some cases, retail pricing with coupons are lower than the co-pays on your drug plan. Be aware, however that costs won’t apply to your drug plan’s deductible. Popular options include: www.goodrx.com, www.blinkhealth.com, www.northcarolinadrugcard.com and www.costplusdrugs.com.
Make an appointment to meet with a certified volunteer counselor from the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) to discuss your options. We have both in-person appointments and appointments by Zoom available by visiting our website www.orangecountync.gov/Medicare or calling us at 919-245-4274.
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New to Medicare? Join our Welcome to Medicare ClassIf you’re turning 65 soon, you’re probably being bombarded by mailings about Medicare. This free class will provide valuable information whether you’re retiring soon, already retired or continuing to work. You’ll learn how and when to enroll, potential penalties for late enrollment, Medicare’s costs, benefits and options. Monday, April 1, 5:30 -7 pm Chapel Hill Public Library Register at 919-968-2070 Wednesday, April 17, 6 - 7:30 pm Online via Zoom Register at www.orangecountync.gov/Medicare101_apr For future sessions, please visit our website www.orangecountync.gov/Medicare or call us at 919-245-4274.
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Get Help with Filing your 2023 Income Tax ReturnThe Orange County Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) is again offering income tax return preparation services at no charge to those with low and moderate incomes. You can work in person with a certified volunteer preparer at the Seymour Center in Chapel Hill or the Passmore Center in Hillsborough. Schedule an appointment online at our website www.orangecountync.gov/vita or by phone at 919-245-4242.
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SilverArts: Heritage & Visual Arts ShowSilverArts is a celebration of creative expression, and a major component of NC’s Senior Games. SilverArts unites the traditional athlete and artist in a program that recognizes discipline, dedication, and pride in one's accomplishments. Join our Senior Games Kick-Off & SilverArts Show including prizes, food, music and special Performing Arts. Min: 25/ Max:150. Date: Thu, Apr 11; Time: 4:30 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070 Activity Code: 323057-14; Register by: Thu, Apr 4; Fee: Free
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Better Balance with Simple ExerciseWhether you are a person who is unsteady on your feet, or an athlete who wishes to enhance your performance, come learn and experience some simple touch reflexes and exercises to improve your balance and coordination. In addition, learn touch reflexes to improve mental focus, leg strength and energy. This is an interactive class. Date: Mon, Apr 1; Time: 10 – 11 am; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070 Activity Code: 352117-07; Register by: Mon, Mar 25, Fee: Free
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Yoga For OsteoporosisThis course is taught by Salli Benedict, yoga instructor and health educator with over 30 years of experience teaching fitness and yoga to older women. Yoga has many benefits for our bodies, minds and spirits, but some yoga poses are not recommended for older women. Join Salli for this 4-week class to learn and practice yoga that is safe for your spine and bones! Date: Tue, Apr 2, 9, 16, 23; Time: 1:30 – 2:30 pm, Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070; Activity Code: 352003- 21; Register by: Tue, Mar 26, Fee: Free
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Solo Agers Interest GroupSolo agers are older adults who are making decisions about their future independently. Come meet other solo agers, learn together, and get involved! This month we’ll have a presentation from Alison Smith on the R Place social model respite program. Learn about respite and opportunities to get involved! Date: Wed, Mar 27; Time: 4 - 6 pm; Location: Seymour Center, 2551 Homestead Rd. Chapel Hill; Register by: Mon, Mar 25; Call: 919-968-2070; Fee: Free
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Solo Agers Book ClubJoin the monthly book club to read, share, and socialize with other solo agers! Meets on the 4th Wednesday of the month before Solo Agers Interest Group. Date: Wed, Mar 27; Time: 3 - 4 pm; Location: Seymour Center, 2551 Homestead Rd. Chapel Hill Register by: Mon, Mar 25; Call: 919-968-207; Fee: Free
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Time Matters: A Women’s Retirement OutlookJoin Cynda Beauchamp, Edward Jones Financial Advisor, as she shares perspective on financial concerns facing women in retirement; discussion on income strategies around social security, withdrawal and reliance rates; and how to prepare for the unexpected. Date: Thu, Apr 4; Time: 10 - 11 am; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015 Activity Code: 254064-04; Register by: Thu, Mar 28; Fee: Free
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Flicks at Passmore: HidalgoHidalgo is a 2004 epic biographical western film based on the legend of the American distance rider, Frank Hopkins, and his mustang, Hidalgo. It recounts Hopkins’ racing his horse in Arabia in 1891 against Bedouins riding pure-blooded Arabian horses. Date: Wed, Apr 10; Time: 2 pm; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015 Activity Code: 253015-04; Register by: Wed, Apr 3; Fee: Free
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Passmore Hispanic Interest Group/ Grupo Para HispanohablantesWe want to start a group for Spanish speakers at Passmore! Join us to come up with ideas for classes and activities that we can offer in Spanish. Queremos empezar un grupo para hispanohablantes en Passmore. Acompanenos para hablar sobre actividades que pudieramos ofrecer en Espanol. Date: Fri, Mar 22 / Viernes, Marzo 22; Time: 10 – 11 am; Location: Passmore Center Call: 919-245-2015; Activity Code: 257076-01; Fee: Free! / Gratis!
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Newcomers Coffee GatheringWant to get out of the house and meet people? Want to chat about some fun topics? We invite you to enjoy light refreshments, coffee and conversation. We provide the topics, and we welcome you to bring a friend. Date: Wed, Apr 17; Time: 10 – 11 am; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015; Activity Code: 253022-04; Register by: Wed, Apr 3; Fee: Free
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Toastmaster ClubToastmasters Club is an educational group that works to build confidence and teach public speaking skills. Date: Thursdays; Time: 6 – 7 pm; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015; Activity Code: 258009-03; Register: Not required; Fee: Free
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Book ClubBook clubs are the perfect way to keep reading, talk about what you read, and make new friends. Enjoy a lively discussion with other book lovers. Check for the book selections through you local library, book app, or local bookstore. Please inquire at the front desk for upcoming book selections. Date: Wed, Mar 27; Time: 10:30 - 11:30 am; Location: Passmore Hybrid; Call: 919-245-2015; Activity Code: 258000-03; Register by: Wed, Mar 20; Fee: Free
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Tell Me A StoryWrite about moments or events in your life to create wonderful memories for your family. You will be offered topics or can select your own to write about at home. At the next session, you can read I aloud for all to enjoy or ask for private input. Pat Darcey will lead the group. Min: 2/Max: 12. Date: Tue, Mar 26; Time: 2:30-3:30 pm; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015; Activity Code: 257002-03; Register by: Tue, Mar 19; Fee: Free
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Introduction to Fly Fishing: BasicsFly fishing is neither as hard nor as complicated as many folks would have you believe. This class will introduce participants to fly fishing. We will talk about what makes fly fishing special and how it differs from “conventional” fishing. Instructor Tim Wipperman will break it down to the essential elements that let anyone go out and enjoy this wonderful sport. Min: 5/Max: 8. Date: Mon, Apr 8; Time: 6 – 8:30 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070 Activity Code: 352300-11; Register by: Mon, Apr 1; Fee: Free
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Ponder the MusePoet, songwriter and singer, Clark Watson (Holtzman), performs Ponder the Muse, an evening of original and classic poetry set to music. In addition, copies of his acclaimed book, The Shepherd's Calendar will be available for purchase Min: 30/Max: 80.
Date: Tue, Mar 26, Time: 5 - 6 pm Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070; Activity Code: 353041-05; Fee: Free
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See More MondaysAn evening of open performances in which creators get five minutes to express themselves through music, poetry, sketch comedy, prose, rap, improvisation, dance, stand–up comedy – anything goes. To perform, sign in up to a half hour before show time. Cast, rehearsed, and put on stage in front of a live audience. Leave your cares, woes and critical judgement at the door. Date: Mon, Mar 25 & Apr 29; Time: 6 – 7:30 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070; Activity Code: 343057-04; Register by: Mon, Mar 18 & Apr 22; Fee: Free
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Affordable Connectivity ProgramThe Affordable Connectivity Program is a Federal Communications Commission program that helps connect families and households struggling to afford internet service. Eligible households can enroll through a participating broadband provider or directly with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) using an online or mail in application. You can learn more about the benefit, including eligibility and enrollment information, by visiting www.fcc.gov/ACP, or by calling 877-384-2575.
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Aging Transitions ServicesTalk to trained staff about any aging-related issue. Call the Aging Helpline at 919-968-2087 or email Aging Services. We try to find answers to your age-related questions and link you to the services that you need. Helpline hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Chinese & Spanish Language Helpline Call 919-245-4275 to speak to our staff in Mandarin. Call 919-245-2010 to leave a message in Spanish. Aging Transitions, Senior Center programming and Volunteer Connect 55+ staff are available to meet individually by appointment, phone, or email. For more information call the Passmore Center at 919-245-2015, Seymour Center at 919-968-2070, or the Aging Helpline at 919-968-2087. Caregiver SupportsSupport groups, educational programs, Memory Café, and Care Partner Collaborative; gather and stay connected with us online or in-person, depending on the program. For upcoming programs download our Current Caregiver Programming flyer. For more caregiver resources, sign up for the monthly Community News for Caregivers e-newsletter. Do You Need Help Finding Transportation? The Transportation Specialist provides information on transportation, travel training, the volunteer driver program, and advocacy. Call the Transportation Help Line: 919-717-1853 (Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm).
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Emergency Housing Assistance (EHA)The EHA was created to help Orange County residents with low incomes prevent eviction and homelessness and secure and maintain stable housing. Assistance is available to households in Orange County that: - Earn no more than 30% of the area median income
- Have an urgent need for housing assistance that is related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and
- Do not have adequate resources to cover the cost of their housing need.
Rent, mortgage and utility payments, security deposits, application fees and other emergency housing-related expenses are eligible for reimbursement. To learn more or to apply, call the Orange County Housing Helpline at 919-245-2655 or visit Emergency Housing Assistance (EHA) Program The program is funded by Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough, along with state and federal funding.
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Financial Assistance for Housing PaymentsThe NC Homeowner Financial Assistance Fund is now accepting applications from North Carolina homeowners whose finances were impacted by the pandemic and who need assistance with housing-related expenses. Homeowners can learn more and apply for help by calling 1-855-MY-NCHAF (1-855-696-2423) or by visiting NCHomeownerAssistance.gov.
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In Need of Incontinence Supplies?Thanks to generous donations, the Department on Aging has a supply of incontinence supplies including: Bed pads, pull up briefs, adult diapers, wipes, and adult booster pads. If you are in need of any of these supplies, we may be able to provide you with up to one pack per month (depending on availability of the items requested). Contact the Aging Helpline (919-968-2087 or agingtransitions@orangecountync.gov) to request supplies.
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Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) LIHWAP is a temporary emergency program that will help eligible households and families afford water and wastewater services, providing a one-time payment for eligible low-income households paid directly to the utility company. LIHWAP runs through September 2023 or until the funds are exhausted. Apply online at www.epass.nc.gov or call/visit your local County Department of Social Services. Learn more download the LIHWAP flier.
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Senior Center Fee Payment and Financial AssistanceThe Orange County Senior Centers strive to be accessible and welcoming to all seniors. If you want to participate in senior center fee-based activities and are unable, or unwilling, to pay a required fee, you may still participate. Furthermore, a selection of free activities and programs are available to seniors age 55 and over. Read more.
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Technology Classes: Available Through the Seymour Tech CenterSeymour Tech offers FREE classes for older adults around personal computer, tablet, and smart phone use. See the full list of upcoming programs here.
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Volunteer Connect 55+Would you like to share your skills and gifts with older adults in Orange County? To volunteer, please contact Orange County Department on Aging's Volunteer Connect 55+ (VC 55+) Volunteer Coordinator, Rebecca Bratsch by phone at 919-245-4241 or email rbratsch@orangecountync.gov
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103 Meadowlands Dr. (PO Box 8181) Hillsborough, NC 27278 Phone: 919-245-2015 Hours: Tue, Wed, & Fri: 8 am – 5 pm Mon & Thu: 8 am – 8 pm
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2551 Homestead Road Chapel Hill, NC 27516 Phone:919-968-2070 Hours: Mon – Thu: 8 am – 9 pm Fri – Sat: 8 am – 5 pm
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