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| Volunteers pack emergency preparedness 'Go-Bags' last month containing essential items for use during severe storms to help residents respond confidently to crisis situations. This initiative is part of an effort by Age Friendly Windham to enhance residents' quality of life. SUBMITTED PHOTO |
Following severe storms in December 2023 and April 2024, Windham officials recognized the urgent need to improve emergency preparedness, particularly for older adults vulnerable to prolonged power outages. Through its participation in the Community Connections (CC) project, AFW has taken proactive steps to address these concerns.
Led by Age-Friendly Coordinator and Community Connector Erica Bell-Watkins, the initiative has successfully brought together key town departments—including Police, Fire, and Communications—to develop a more age-friendly and resource-conscious emergency response plan.
As part of this effort, AFW conducted a comprehensive emergency preparedness survey in late 2024, receiving over 150 responses from community members. The findings are shaping new strategies, including the distribution of 100 emergency preparedness “Go-Bags” this spring. These bags will contain essential items such as battery-operated radios with flashlights and chargers, blankets, batteries, first aid kits, water purification tablets, hand sanitizer, and secure document bags. Additionally, AFW has created an Emergency Preparedness Guide to help residents respond confidently in crisis situations.
Expanding Services and Strengthening Partnerships
Beyond emergency preparedness, Windham has leveraged the CC project to expand key community services, including:
● Increased Transportation Access: In 2024, Windham’s transportation service provided over 200 rides to 60 clients for medical appointments and social activities. AFW is now working to double ridership and ensure more residents can access reliable transportation.
● Bridging the Digital Divide: In partnership with the Windham Public Library and the National Digital Equity Center, AFW launched Techno Wednesdays, a series of digital literacy workshops covering cyber fraud prevention, telehealth navigation, email basics, and device assistance.
● Community Meals and Educational Programs: The Nourish Your Body and Mind series offers opportunities for residents to gather, learn, and connect. Past sessions have covered topics such as housing solutions, winter preparedness, and local resources, with support from organizations like the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, AARP, and Maine Housing.
Boosting Community Awareness and Future Growth
One of the biggest successes of the CC project has been expanding community awareness of AFW’s programs. Bell-Watkins has focused on outreach and collaboration, ensuring that residents are well-informed about available services. “Since launching the Community Connections pilot in September, I’ve been able to dedicate more time to outreach and building partnerships,” said Bell-Watkins. “As a result, more people know about AFW’s programs and resources, and that’s a huge step forward.”
Looking ahead, Windham is committed to securing long-term funding for these critical programs. A key milestone in this effort was Bell-Watkins’ appointment to the Ad Hoc Middle School Repurposing Committee, highlighting the town’s recognition of the importance of age-friendly services. Additionally, the Community Connect pilot will continue to financially support the position in partnership with the town, ensuring that Windham’s efforts to foster a more connected and resilient community will continue well into the future.
For more information about Age-Friendly Windham and upcoming initiatives, visit www.agefriendlywindham.org or contact Erica Bell-Watkins at 207-892-4649. <
Beyond emergency preparedness, Windham has leveraged the CC project to expand key community services, including:
● Increased Transportation Access: In 2024, Windham’s transportation service provided over 200 rides to 60 clients for medical appointments and social activities. AFW is now working to double ridership and ensure more residents can access reliable transportation.
● Bridging the Digital Divide: In partnership with the Windham Public Library and the National Digital Equity Center, AFW launched Techno Wednesdays, a series of digital literacy workshops covering cyber fraud prevention, telehealth navigation, email basics, and device assistance.
● Community Meals and Educational Programs: The Nourish Your Body and Mind series offers opportunities for residents to gather, learn, and connect. Past sessions have covered topics such as housing solutions, winter preparedness, and local resources, with support from organizations like the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, AARP, and Maine Housing.
Boosting Community Awareness and Future Growth
One of the biggest successes of the CC project has been expanding community awareness of AFW’s programs. Bell-Watkins has focused on outreach and collaboration, ensuring that residents are well-informed about available services. “Since launching the Community Connections pilot in September, I’ve been able to dedicate more time to outreach and building partnerships,” said Bell-Watkins. “As a result, more people know about AFW’s programs and resources, and that’s a huge step forward.”
Looking ahead, Windham is committed to securing long-term funding for these critical programs. A key milestone in this effort was Bell-Watkins’ appointment to the Ad Hoc Middle School Repurposing Committee, highlighting the town’s recognition of the importance of age-friendly services. Additionally, the Community Connect pilot will continue to financially support the position in partnership with the town, ensuring that Windham’s efforts to foster a more connected and resilient community will continue well into the future.
For more information about Age-Friendly Windham and upcoming initiatives, visit www.agefriendlywindham.org or contact Erica Bell-Watkins at 207-892-4649. <
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