Registration is now open for SAFE Coalition's FREE six-week IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group

IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group

Registration is now open for SAFE Coalition's FREE six-week IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group! tinyurl.com/safecaregroup

If you're a parent, grandparent, foster parent, or caregiver for a child who:

• Has an IEP or 504 plan
• Has been diagnosed with a learning difference
• and/or is navigating a health-related condition that affects school or daily life

...this group was made for you!

Thursdays, April 30–June 4 | 6:00–7:30 PM | SAFE Coalition (Franklin)

Questions? Contact SAFE at info@safecoalitionma.org or (508) 488-8105

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DjLb5EEkJ/

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, November 7, 2025 ???

Friday, November 7

9:00am Fallen Hero: Lawrence J. Clark (Veterans Walkway, Franklin Town Common)

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

11:00am Caregivers Appreciation Day (Franklin Senior Center)

1:00pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

5:30pm Jamie Barrett (live music) (Prezo Grille and Bar)

** Note with the Caregivers Appreciation event at the Senior Center, all the "normal" activities are canceled (including breakfast/lunch))

For additional details on Library events -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

**   NO Town Meetings today   **

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Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio introduced a brand new schedule early in 2025 for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

 

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM   Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock 

Franklin and its local government, services and events  (repeats Saturday at 2 PM)  

• This segment shares my conversation with Lyn O'Brien as we talk about the Caregivers Appreciation Day scheduled for Nov 7 at the Franklin Senior Center  ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/08/caregivers-appreciation-day-scheduled.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM  The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone  All about wine, its culture, lore and finer points.    (repeats Saturday at 1 PM)  

• This segment features Kim & Mark talk with Kiana Keys author of the Unpolished Grape ->  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/10/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode_0704938505.html

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Lyn talks about the Caregivers Appreciation Day scheduled for Friday, Nov 7 at the Franklin Senior Center (audio)

FM #1567 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1567 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Lyn O’Brien, Chair of the Council on Aging.  We had our discussion in the Franklin Radio Studio on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

 

We talk about 

• Her nursing career serving folks at home 

• Caregivers Appreciation Day - Nov 7, 2025 

• 11 AM to 3 PM

• At the Franklin Senior Center

• Free Hourly raffles, 40 + vendors

• Information on taking care of your loved one

Note: Regularly scheduled events at the Senior Center on this day are cancelled to allow this to happen. Thanks to the Town of Franklin & the Senior Center for doing so

The recording runs about 37 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1567-caregivers-

appreciation-day-10-29-25/

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Franklin Senior Center page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/583/Franklin-Senior-Center-Council-on-Aging 

Caregiver Appreciation Day flyer (download as a reminder or to share)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17x0RVnpS5X6j9qop_9-bytRZMlA0iKr7/view?usp=drive_link

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy it!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Caregivers Appreciation Day scheduled for November 7 at the Franklin Senior Center

Dear Valued Community Member,

The Friends of Franklin Elders and the Franklin Senior Center are holding a Caregivers Appreciation Day on November 7 from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM for all caregivers of Franklin and surrounding towns.

This event will be filled with volunteers and vendors offering services and experiences that support and give back to caregivers.

Caregivers Appreciation Day 

The Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that raises funds for the Franklin Senior Center to support the community's aging population. The Franklin Senior Center's mission, with the support of the community, is to identify, advocate for, and implement meaningful educational, cultural, social, health/wellness activities and services for our aging population.

We are respectfully asking if your company would be willing to donate an item for one of our raffle baskets. This can be a product, service, gift card or a full gift basket. The baskets will be won by caregivers who will receive a free ticket to place in the raffle jar. 

We are also seeking those who can offer mini services such as facials, skincare consultations, Reiki or healing arts, live entertainment or food donations at no charge. Whether you are a professional, a student building experience or someone passionate about giving back, we would love to have you. We greatly appreciate your support and generosity.

If you have any questions or require more information, please don't hesitate to contact the event committee's Chairperson, Lyn O'Brien, at Lynob@comcast.net or 617-686-9595

Download the flyer as a reminder or to share ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17x0RVnpS5X6j9qop_9-bytRZMlA0iKr7/view?usp=drive_link

Caregivers Appreciation Day scheduled for November 7 at the Franklin Senior Center

Dear Valued Community Member,

The Friends of Franklin Elders and the Franklin Senior Center are holding a Caregivers Appreciation Day on November 7 from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM for all caregivers of Franklin and surrounding towns.

This event will be filled with volunteers and vendors offering services and experiences that support and give back to caregivers.

Caregivers Appreciation Day 

The Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that raises funds for the Franklin Senior Center to support the community's aging population. The Franklin Senior Center's mission, with the support of the community, is to identify, advocate for, and implement meaningful educational, cultural, social, health/wellness activities and services for our aging population.

We are respectfully asking if your company would be willing to donate an item for one of our raffle baskets. This can be a product, service, gift card or a full gift basket. The baskets will be won by caregivers who will receive a free ticket to place in the raffle jar. 

We are also seeking those who can offer mini services such as facials, skincare consultations, Reiki or healing arts, live entertainment or food donations at no charge. Whether you are a professional, a student building experience or someone passionate about giving back, we would love to have you. We greatly appreciate your support and generosity.

If you have any questions or require more information, please don't hesitate to contact the event committee's Chairperson, Lyn O'Brien, at Lynob@comcast.net or 617-686-9595

Download the flyer as a reminder or to share ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17x0RVnpS5X6j9qop_9-bytRZMlA0iKr7/view?usp=drive_link

Town of Franklin: Job Opportunities - maybe one of these could be yours!

Job Opportunities

To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov.  Please put the job title in the subject line of your email

Head Chef and Kitchen Manager - Franklin Senior Center 

Companion Caregiver - Franklin Senior Center 

Recycling Center Laborer - Department of Public Works 

Part-time and Substitute Custodians - Facilities Department 

Substitute Library Assistant - Franklin Public Library  

If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead.

To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here .

Shared from the Town of Franklin page ->
https://www.franklinma.gov/human-resources/pages/job-opportunities

Town of Franklin: Job Opportunities - maybe one of these could be yours!

Powerful Tools for Caregivers - Free 6-week Program - Begins Sep 26

Powerful Tools for Caregivers

Free 6-week Program

Thursdays, Sept. 26—Oct. 31, 2019 (1- 3 pm) 
Franklin Senior Center
10 Daniel McCahill Street, Franklin, MA 02038

The program is designed to help you take care of yourself while caring for an older adult. Get the tools you need to:

• reduce stress
• communicate effectively
• reduce guilt, anger and depression
• make tough decisions
• set goals
• problem-solve

Sponsored by Tri-Valley Inc. and The Franklin Senior Center

To register contact:
Laura Black Silver, LICSW, Caregiver Specialist, Tri-Valley Inc.
lblack@tves.org 1-800-286-6640, Ext. 3079 

or Karen Alves, Franklin Senior Center Director kalves@franklinma.gov 508-520-4945

Download a copy of the flyer:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczUy1tUXVmMVprZDZtM0p5U2FvYUNTU1J3RV9n/view?usp=sharing

Powerful Tools for Caregivers - Free 6-week Program - Begins Sep 26

Childcare Education Workshop for Caregivers - May 9

Lifelong Community Learning has scheduled a May 9 childcare education workshop for caregivers titled “Maybe You Know This Kid?” with Donna Shea. While all professionals who work with children know that each child is a unique and wonderful person, children in our schools or extended day programs may also exhibit similar challenges.

This roundtable format workshop will draw on the expertise of all participants and explore strategies that have worked for them after they have tried “everything” for and are still bewildered by the child in their care. Attendees will be asked to submit or bring a case study for a brainstorming discussion.

The workshop fee is $25. The evening is sure to be informative and interesting in a relaxed setting with colleagues and new friends.

For more information and to register, visit www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com and click on Lifelong Community Learning. You can also call Lifelong Community Learning at 508-613-1480 for more information.

ABOUT US: Lifelong Community Learning is a program of the Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to providing diverse and enriched education and experiences for all area residents and children – a resource for all ages.

Childcare Education Workshop for Caregivers - May 9

workshop: "My Senses Don’t Make Sense!" - Feb 7

Lifelong Community Learning has scheduled a February 7 childcare education workshop for caregivers. My Senses Don’t Make Sense! with Donna Shea will cover recognizing and supporting children with sensory integration dysfunction.

Participants will talk about strategies that help. They will also discuss how finding the services of, or talking to a school occupational therapist, can make a world of difference for a child who senses don’t make sense.

Caregivers are invited to participate in what will be an informative and interesting evening in a relaxed setting with colleagues and new friends. The workshop fee is $25.

For more information, go to www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com and click on Lifelong Community Learning - Child Care & Parenting. Or call Lifelong Community Learning at 508-613-1480.

Lifelong Community Learning is a program of the Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to providing diverse and enriched education and experiences for all area residents and children – a resource for all ages.

Or go direct to this link:
https://reg.abcsignup.com/reg/event_page.aspx?ek=0079-0003-a4a543668f8347f4b9da56fe5b043d4e

workshop: My Senses Don’t Make Sense! - Feb 7

Senior Center: Companion Caregiver program has openings

The Companion Caregiver program at the Franklin Senior Center currently has openings for new clients! We provide in home care for a loved one over 60 years of age who has a form of Dementia or a major medical illness.

One of our trained companions can provide care for 4 or more hours per week at a very reasonable rate. This allows a full time caregiver to do something in or out of the home that does not involve caregiving. We provide respite for the caregiver and companionship and socialization for the loved one.

Our Companions are trained in CPR and first aid, Dementia Care, Fall risk and cultural competency amongst other areas of training.

Franklin Senior Center

Please see the attached brochure and call Elaine Owens at the Senior Center at 508-520-4945 to gather more information or to schedule a home visit.

Elaine M. Owens
Companion Caregiver Program Supervisor
Franklin Senior Center
10 Daniel McCahill Highway
Franklin, Mass. 02038
508-520-4945

"It is possible at any age to discover a lifelong desire you never knew you had". ~ Robert Brault.

Senior Center: Companion program reminder

Just a reminder!  If you are looking for respite care, the Franklin Senior Center offers a Companion Caregiver Program. 

One of our trained companions can come to your home and relieve you for a few hours a week to allow you time to run an errand or just have some down time! 

If you are caring for someone over 60 who has Alzheimer's or a related Dementia, or a major medical illness, we can help.  

Rates are between $8-$12 per hour depending on household income.   

Please call Elaine Owens at the Franklin Senior Center for more information.   508-520-4945 

Franklin Senior Center

Additional info can be found on the Senior Center page (PDF)

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/ccbrochure14.pdf

Additional info on the companion care program was posted here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/03/there-are-resources-available-for-those.html

and here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/01/franklin-annual-report-2014-council-on.html

Memory Café Offered For Caregivers & Their Loved Ones

Thursday, May 21

3:00—4:30 pm at the Franklin Senior Center

Memory Cafés are places where people with Alzheimer’s or a related disease can go with their caregivers to socialize and have fun with others in a similar situation. 

Please call Elaine at 508 520-4945 for more info.

Franklin Senior Center

Caregiver Support in Massachusetts

From the MA.GOV blog we find good tips for caregivers and a listing of resources.

The Massachusetts Family Caregiver Support Program empowers caregivers through information, education, support, and services that help enhance their quality of life. Caregivers may experience physical, emotional, and financial strain while caring for a loved one. With this in mind, the Commonwealth offers support resources to ease those stresses and reduce the challenges of caregiving. 

Care for the Caregiver 

Whether you are just beginning a caregiving role or continuing to care for an older person whose needs are increasing, it’s important to  take care of your own physical and mental health. Remember to recharge and take time for yourself. Rest, maintain healthy eating habits, get enough sleep each night, exercise, and communicate your needs to others when in need of help.

You can continue reading the MA.GOV article here  http://blog.mass.gov/blog/health/caregiver-support-in-massachusetts/

screen shot ma.gov article on caregiver support 

One resource we can add to the list for Franklin is the program started earlier this year at the Franklin Senior Center.

The Companion Caregiver Program at the Franklin Senior Center recently received an award from the Massachusetts Council on Aging for "innovative program". The award ceremony was on June 6 at Lake Pearl in Wrentham.

The program offers in home full time caregivers respite for 2-4 hours per week if they are caring for someone 60 years of age or older with Dementia or a major medical illness. There is NO restriction on age of caregiver to be eligible for the program. 

The cost of the program is between $8 and $12 per hour depending upon household income. This cost is at least $8 below current market rate.

Our companions provide socialization and stimulation for the recipient of care in the home setting. The companions are trained in Dementia and Elder Care, cultural competency, CPR and first aid, and fall risk. 

We tailor activities with the recipient based on our review of their interests.

For more information please feel free to contact Elaine Owens at the Franklin Senior Center. the number is 508-520-4945.

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/06/companion-caregiver-program.html

Companion Caregiver program

The Companion Caregiver Program at the Franklin Senior Center recently received an award from the Massachusetts Council on Aging for "innovative program". The award ceremony was on June 6 at Lake Pearl in Wrentham.

The program offers in home full time caregivers respite for 2-4 hours per week if they are caring for someone 60 years of age or older with Dementia or a major medical illness. There is NO restriction on age of caregiver to be eligible for the program. 

The cost of the program is between $8 and $12 per hour depending upon household income. This cost is at least $8 below current market rate.

Our companions provide socialization and stimulation for the recipient of care in the home setting. The companions are trained in Dementia and Elder Care, cultural competency, CPR and first aid, and fall risk. 

We tailor activities with the recipient based on our review of their interests.

For more information please feel free to contact Elaine Owens at the Franklin Senior Center. the number is 508-520-4945.

Franklin Senior Center

For more about the Franklin Senior Center, the programs and services they provide, visit their webpage
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/index