Heather Stoskoph

 

Waukesha County seniors have access to yet another valuable agency. Heather Stoskoph introduced us to Interfaith Senior Programs during our meeting on Nov. 4. Interfaith's volunteers assist with some basic tasks, allowing many seniors to stay in their homes. "All seniors have the right to live in their homes as long as they choose to," Stoskoph says.

 

According to Stoskoph, a typical client is a widowed homeowner in her 70s or 80s. Services, which are provided free, include transportation (to the grocery store and doctor's office), seasonal yard cleanup, and non-medical respite caregiver support. Interfaith serves approximately 1,100 seniors in Waukesha County each year. Having them stay at home, as opposed to taxpayer-supported assisted living or skilled nursing facilities, saves $60,000 per person per year.

Active seniors are welcome to volunteer their time and talents. One gentleman shovels driveways for six of his neighbors. "It gives him a sense of purpose," Stoskoph says. Other possibilities include being a pen pal for seniors and tutoring youth in math and reading.

 

Interfaith Senior Programs began in 2007, the result of a merger between Interfaith Caregiving Network, Inc. and Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Waukesha County, Inc. With the county's senior citizen population expected to grow 34% by 2020, Stoskoph says there will be an increasing demand for their services. Interfaith currently is in "desperate need" of drivers.

 

Donations and fundraisers, like the upcoming Santa 5K Run, provide valuable funds. To learn more, or to volunteer, call Interfaith Senior Programs at 262-549-3348, or visit their website.