Bellwood Mayor with Seniors

For many years, Bellwood has recognized just how much senior citizens add to the diversity and vibrancy of the community. The village continues to benefit from the contributions of its active and visible senior population, and understands why it’s important to make a priority of offering programs, services and special events tailored to the senior community.

Bellwood residents can take advantage of many programs, services and resources offered close to home by West Suburban Senior Services and the Memorial Park District.

West Suburban Senior Services, which runs its Senior Center at 439 Bohland Ave. in Bellwood, has been assisting senior citizens in the near West Cook County suburbs township for more than 30 years. As a charitable, non-profit organization, the agency provides a variety of services, programs and assistance exclusively to address the needs of senior citizen residents.

 
West Suburban Senior Services Senior Center

Beginning as a transportation agency assisting senior citizens with rides to physicians, hospitals, grocery shopping and other locations, the agency has expanded its services and the communities it serves. The services have grown over the years and include an array of community-based programs. Each year, more than 6,000 senior citizens and their families are served. While the majority of services are provided in senior citizens’ homes, the agency operates out of three sites in Bellwood, LaGrange and Forest Park. In addition, staff routinely works with senior citizens in area hospitals, nursing homes and retirement communities.

Seniors: Save These Dates!

Casino Trip
West Suburban Senior Services has scheduled an outing to the Potawatomi Bingo Casino in Milwaukee on Oct. 20. The trip leaves from the Senior Citizen Center in Bellwood at 8 a.m. and returns at approximately 6 p.m. The $25 per-person cost includes round-trip transportation on a motor coach, an all-you-can-eat buffet and a $5 gaming voucher with 25 points earned. Paid, nonrefundable cash reservations are due at the Senior Center by Oct. 8, and a minimum registration is required. The casino requires one of the following forms of photo identification: current passport, valid driver’s license, valid state-issued identification card, current military identification, an immigration card or a consulate card.

 
Reservations Open For Senior Law Enforcement Academy
Crimes against seniors, gang and drug awareness, an overview of alternative sentencing programs and functions of the Cook County jail are among the topics to be discussed at the Senior Law Enforcement Academy at the Senior Citizen Center. The academy is sponsored by the Cook County Sheriff, and is open to all Cook County seniors. There is no participation fee. The academy begins Sept. 30 and meets on consecutive Thursdays through Nov. 4 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. A complimentary continental breakfast is served at each session. Pre-registration is required. For reservations, call West Suburban Senior Services at (708) 547-5600.
 
Flu Shots Expected At Senior Center
West Suburban Senior Services has learned it will receive flu vaccines from the Cook County Department of Public Health. However, the agency doesn’t know when the vaccine will arrive, so specific dates for our flu shot clinics have not been scheduled. Call (708) 547-5600 to learn if the dates and times have been set.
 
Senior Support System
West Suburban Senior Services will offer a new program that helps Proviso Township seniors take care of themselves and their environment when they are finding it difficult to do so and are ignoring their personal needs. The assistance includes providing resources, ongoing counseling and support with the goal of increasing quality of life while maintaining independence. Seniors and their families and friends can contact Laura Schumacher-Smith, LCSW, at (708) 547-5600, Ext. 402.
 
Learn More About LIHEAP Assistance
During September, income-eligible senior citizens can file for help with winter home heating bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Seniors must be age 60 or older on the day of application and meet income guidelines. Seniors must bring the following documents to file for benefits: Social Security card, a photo ID card, current NICOR bill, current ComEd bill and proof of gross income for 30 days, including your 2010 Social Security letter. LIHEAP provides a one-time payment to utility companies on behalf of the recipient. West Suburban Senior Services will share additional LIHEAP information as it becomes available. 
 
Senior Vision Disorders And Risk Assessment
The Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness will address adult vision health on Sept. 23 at the Senior Citizen Center. Seniors can complete a risk assessment and talk with the presenter. Risk assessments are scheduled from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., and from 11:15 a.m. - 12 noon. The program begins at 10:30 a.m. Appointments are required; call West Suburban Senior Services.
 
 
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