Contact: Debbie Halm, VP of Administration

Spectrum Generations

1-800-282-0764 ext. 120

Personal Support Services for Jackman

(Somerset County, April 10, 2009) Spectrum Generations is addressing the lack of personal service agencies serving northern rural Somerset County, in areas such as Jackman and beyond. Efforts are underway to bring expanded information and services to this region. Spectrum Generations staff members Linda Slater, Personal Support Services Supervisor, and Misty Simoneau, Consumer Information Specialist, are working to improve this situation. The duo has met with several community groups to discuss the needs of elders and disabled individuals in the area.

Slater, who supervises the home care portion of Spectrum Generations, said, “Whether it is just a couple of hours or ‘round the clock assistance, Bridges Personal Support Specialists are trained to provide a variety of services based on need. And, whether it is house cleaning, companionship or tending to your personal needs, “it’s your choice – we provide as much support as you request for as long as you need it”. Services are charged by the hour and financial assistance may be available for those who qualify.

Finding qualified personal service staff has been a challenge in serving the extremely rural segment of the County. Slater stated that, “Personal Support Specialist training is available on-line for a small reimbursable fee. Training can be completed in the first six months of employment. Family members who may be available to care for another family member are encouraged to apply.”

For more information regarding Personal Services, call Linda Slater at 1-800-876-9212, ext. 163.

The public is invited to call the agency’s Information and Help Line at 1-800-639-1553 for assistance, to join the Spectrum Generations Volunteer Corps; or to request a bulletin from the community or resource center closest to you. On the Internet, Spectrum Generations can be found at www.spectrumgenerations.org.