Gardiner Senior Center seeks dedicated social worker for crisis management support

In the heart of Gardner, Massachusetts, the Public Welfare Committee convened on May 30, 2025, to address pressing issues affecting the community, particularly its senior citizens. The meeting highlighted the vital role of the senior center, which serves individuals aged 50 and over, emphasizing its mission to foster connection and participation without stringent age checks. “If someone comes to the center because they need connection, we don’t check their license for their age,” a committee member noted, underscoring the center's inclusive approach.

However, the discussion quickly turned to the challenges faced by the city in providing adequate social services. A key point of concern was the absence of a dedicated social worker, which was described as a “wish list item.” The committee acknowledged the lack of structured case management within the city, particularly for individuals in crisis situations. “There’s no good mechanism for the City when we encounter somebody who’s in a crisis situation,” one member explained, citing examples such as uninhabitable housing conditions that require immediate intervention.

The committee members shared their collaborative efforts across various departments, including the Board of Health and the Police Department, to address issues like veterans’ housing and other social services. Yet, they recognized the need for a dedicated professional who could navigate the complex landscape of social services more effectively. “It would be great to have a dedicated person who understands the services and can do the case management side,” one member stated, reflecting a shared sentiment among the committee.

The conversation also touched on the significant time and effort spent assisting seniors with bureaucratic challenges, such as resolving issues with Social Security payments. One poignant example involved a senior facing unjust garnishment of their benefits due to a clerical error related to a deceased spouse. “There’s no way in God’s screener that senior could have possibly navigated the phone system,” a member lamented, highlighting the critical need for support in these situations.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed hope for future funding opportunities that could help address these gaps in service. The discussions underscored a community grappling with the complexities of social welfare, yet committed to finding solutions that ensure no senior is left behind. The path forward remains uncertain, but the dedication to improving the lives of Gardner’s residents is clear, leaving attendees with a sense of urgency and purpose as they look to the future.