To the editor,
We were delighted to see the article “It Takes A Village To Care” in the March 6, 2019 edition highlighting Bethlehem Neighbors. Bethlehem Neighbors is part of a nationwide movement to form Villages — grassroots, community-based organizations that provide members with support services, social and educational opportunities that help older adults remain independent in age and community. This concept began in Beacon Hill in 2002, with more than 200 Villages in the United States developed since that time.
Community Caregivers, Inc., is a local nonprofit organization that provides non-medical services that those in need to remain independent and in their homes. We work collaboratively with other community partners on Village development throughout the region including the efforts to develop Bethlehem Neighbors. Ms. Jonas works under contract with Community Caregivers with funding provided by The New York State Office for the Aging. Similarly, we and our community partners are pursuing village development in the Town of Guilderland and the City of Albany.
We applaud The Spotlight for highlighting these efforts in Bethlehem. We encourage anyone with questions about Bethlehem Neighbors or other Villages that are under development to contact us at 518-456-2898 or by email at [email protected] Thank you again for bringing awareness to this important initiative.
Sincerely,
W. Scott Hicks
President of the Board
