Embracing Change for a Stronger Senior Community

For seniors, a strong community has been shown to be a vital ingredient of a fulfilling life, offering not just the opportunity for social interaction, but a sense of belonging. For the Norwalk Senior Center, creating that community has long been — and will always be — our north star, even as we must adapt to changing times.

For more than three decades, the Center has poured heart, resources, and dedication into providing transportation for our senior participants so no matter their circumstances, they could join this community. 

This was no small feat: from buying and maintaining a fleet of buses to handling repairs, insurance, and even the unfortunate reality of vandalism, our commitment was unwavering. Our skilled drivers — Samir Ali, Remy Exantus, Calvin Johnson, and Eliezer Ramos — deserve our deepest gratitude for their tireless service. Likewise, Accurate Automotive Repair and Fort Point Phoenix have been invaluable partners, ensuring our buses and participants remained safe on the road, often responding to emergencies the very same day.
But as times change, so must we. Given the reality of our limited resources and the good fortune that there are newer, more efficient, and convenient ways to provide the transportation our members need, we have made the decision to change the way we provide those services.

The Norwalk Transit District (NTD), with more than 55 years of experience, is now poised to carry the torch for our seniors. Their innovative Wheels2 U service offers door-to-door rides for just $2, running from 7 AM to 7 PM—far more flexible than our previous half-day schedule. This means our seniors can arrive earlier and stay later, enjoying more of the Center’s activities and programs.
Let’s be honest: shifting transportation to the transportation experts at NTD reduces risk to the Center, and by transitioning to NTD, especially in these difficult times it may help provide a little more in the way of resources to enrich and expand programming for all participants and their families, thus better serving our seniors.

Change is never easy. We understand the concerns and the emotional attachment to the way things were. But this transition is a leap forward and we and NTD have worked to make it as easy as possible for everyone. Since December, those who relied on our buses have received travel training, help signing up for NTD’s Wheels2 U and ADA services, and financial assistance. We’re committed to making sure every senior feels supported.

To further support our community, we’re setting up a Critical Needs Fund to help low-income seniors (60+) with essential expenses like food, furnace repair, junk removal, and transportation. Donations are tax-deductible and will directly affect those most in need. If you’re a senior who requires assistance, please reach out to Eva Beau, NSC’s Social Services Director, at 203-847-3115 X 115 or ebeau@norwalksc.org.

We want as many seniors as possible to attend and enjoy the Center’s offerings. In May, we’ll celebrate 55 years of service to the community — a testament to our resilience and adaptability. Change is hard, but together, we can and will help each other thrive.
Let’s embrace this new chapter, support our seniors, and build an even stronger community — one where every participant has the opportunity to flourish.