A collaborative effort is underway to strengthen advocacy and engagement opportunities for senior residents in the community. The Newtown Department of Human Services, Friends of Newtown Seniors (FONS) and Newtown Commission on Aging are joining forces as Newtown Senior Alliance to develop and host a new series of programs focused on issues that matter most to older adults.

This initiative aims to create a welcoming space where seniors can share perspectives, discuss challenges, and help shape local priorities through open dialogue and community driven conversations.

The series will officially kick off with a roundtable discussion, “Seniors' Perspective on Newtown Housing,” on Tuesday, April 28, at 5 pm, at Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street.

All are invited to join the discussion on what seniors need, want, and wish for in housing. The discussion will be led by Joan Alexander, a FONS board member and local realtor who will provide data and perspective on Newtown real estate.

Light refreshments will be served. This is a free event but tickets must be secured through Newtown Senior Center or FONS. Visit zeffy.com and search for FONS April Roundtable-Housing to register.

Optionally, contact the senior center at 203-270-4310 or visit in person, or contact FONS at info@friendsofnewtownseniors.org, to obtain the registration link.

Organizers emphasize that participant input will play a central role in shaping future discussions. While planning has already begun for upcoming topics, attendees at the April event will be encouraged to suggest issues they would like to explore in future roundtables.

“This collaboration represents an important step toward ensuring that seniors in our community have a strong voice,” organizers shared. “We want these discussions to reflect the real needs and interests of those we serve.”

All senior residents and interested community members are encouraged to attend and participate in these important conversations.

Optional Survey Also Available

Ahead of Tuesday’s roundtable, a survey has been created to help organizers understand what residents are thinking about the current state of local housing. Friends of Newtown Seniors would love to hear from local residents, whether or not they plan to attend the April 28 discussion.

The survey includes nine questions, and an opportunity to comment or ask questions about local housing. There is also an option to tell FONS if each responder owns their home, rents, lives with family, or has a different residential status.

Visit https://forms.gle/vLUWTKmiikrFSRdo6 to access the survey or visit Newtown Senior Center or contact FONS at the e-mail address above to have the survey link sent.