August 25, 2020

EveryStep Offers Senior Companion Services in Pottawattamie County

EveryStep, which already provides hospice services in southwest Iowa, now offers the Senior Companion program in Pottawattamie County.

Part of the nationally respected network of Senior Corps services, EveryStep’s Senior Companion program brings support and companionship to adults who need extra help in the home in order to maintain their independence.

“EveryStep has a long history of providing care and support for Iowans in their homes,” says Sandy Belt, coordinator for EveryStep’s Senior Companion program in Pottawattamie County. Belt also serves as volunteer coordinator for EveryStep Hospice (formerly Hospice With Heart) in Council Bluffs.

Through regular home visits, EveryStep’s Senior Companion program brings free support to clients ages 21 and older who need extra support to continue to live independently in their homes. The program recruits “Senior Companions” – adults 55 and older who want to help others in their community while earning a modest income. Senior Companions visit clients in their homes, offering friendship and assistance with activities such as shopping, appointments and recreation time.

EveryStep will soon offer its free Senior Companion services to individuals in Pottawattamie County who could benefit from the program.

But first, the organization is recruiting and training people to become Senior Companions.

“You must have a sincere interest in helping people to be part of this program,” Belt says. “To qualify as a Senior Companion, you must also be a resident of Pottawattamie County, be 55 or older, live on a limited income, and have the ability to transport others.”

Qualified Senior Companions can earn more than $400 per month without decreasing their housing, medical, food, disability or other assistance they may be receiving.

“Another bonus in helping out through this program is the network of friends you’ll make and support you’ll receive from your fellow Senior Companions and the EveryStep team,” Belt says.

To learn more about the program and eligibility guidelines for clients or Senior Companions in Pottawattamie County, please contact Tanya Jura at (712) 325-6802 or email seniorcompwest@everystep.org. 

EveryStep also offers the Senior Companion program in Polk, Warren, Marion and Lucas counties. To learn more about the EveryStep’s many services, visit www.everystep.org.