A nonprofit dues-paying membership organization, the “village” is actually a townwide support network designed to help older residents stay in their own homes as long as possible. The group’s aim is to help meet local demand for retiree housing in a town with few other options, organizers say.
“There is basically no new housing being built for that market,” said Tom Ferguson, a retired resident who is on Stay Put’s board.
The organization is putting together lists of reliable, prescreened contractors available for home repairs; it is also negotiating reduced rates with home-nursing agencies and lining up volunteers willing to drive members to doctor appointments or to pick up groceries.
The only paid staff member is the executive director, Jane Nyce. Members will be encouraged to offer up their skills and talents too, as volunteers.
“It’s not a government thing, or a company seeking a business opportunity,” said Mr. Ferguson, but rather a “grass-roots effort.” nytimes.com
