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Date: 12/29/2021
AGAWAM – As soon as contracts can be approved, the Senior Center will use $50,000 in state funding on new resources and programs, and construction improvements to the Main Street building.
State Sen. John Velis announced the funding on Dec. 6, joined by Mayor William Sapelli, Senior Center Director Michael Squindo and Agawam city councilors. Velis said the funding was included as an earmark in the fiscal 2022 budget passed in May.
Squindo added, “The earmark is intended to provide a variety of resources and programs at the Senior Center throughout the year to enrich the lives of Agawam's senior citizens.”
He said the Senior Center will be 12 years old in 2022, and the building needs upgrades such as carpet replacements. Additionally, Squindo said he wants to install security cameras in the parking lot, to monitor and maintain the safety of their seniors.
“We are always continuing improvements,” he added.
More exterior improvements of the Senior Center include a “more welcoming” space, said Squindo. “[We] thought of putting in hedges to enhance the outside appearance.”
Squindo also said he plans to spend some of the money on expanding the center’s ability to host remote programs. For instance, if there is bad weather, he thinks seniors should have the option to partake in programs from the comfort and safety of their homes.
“We want to enhance those services for homebound seniors,” he said.
The Senior Center is getting quotes for the work now. Any work to be funded by this grant must be started before the end of the fiscal year, which is June 30, 2022.
“We will do our diligence to use [the] money,” said Squindo.
Squindo said this grant is the largest earmark grant he’s ever seen from the state Legislature.
“It shows we’re being thought of. It’s a testament to the efficacy of our representative and senator,” he added.
With this grant, Velis said, “I hope to see them expand their outreach and continue the incredible work they've been doing. Transportation for senior residents is an issue that was raised continuously in our meetings with Agawam officials, and I am hopeful these funds can have a real and tangible impact on that.”
He continued, “We all know that the COVID-19 pandemic has especially impacted our most vulnerable populations, and that is especially true for our elderly residents. Senior Centers throughout our communities have gone above and beyond to help out during these difficult times, from helping with vaccine appointments to food deliveries to virtual events and more. The Agawam Senior Center has been absolutely incredible during this time, and I will always do what I can to support them.”
Velis said he was able to secure $500,000 in earmarks for his 11-town district, including projects for Holyoke Community College, the Easthampton Community Center, Baystate Noble Hospital, the Westfield Police, Girls Inc., and the Southwick Economic Development Commission.
“It is my duty as senator to zealously advocate for our district during the budget process. After months of meetings with municipalities and organizations to discuss priorities, I am proud of all the amendments my team was able to secure,” said Velis.