Our Mission
To identify, develop and coordinate resources, policies, programs and services
that support and empower all residents of Maplewood and South Orange
to age in place as full members of the community.
Recognizing the increasing number of residents over 60 and the desire to keep long-term residents in our communities, South Orange and Maplewood (SOMA) launched "Two Towns for All Ages." Under this initiative, SOMA is taking a proactive approach to foster healthy aging and enable residents to age in place.
This age-friendly initiative engages all stakeholders in the community to build a community that serves the needs of residents of all ages.
News & Updates
Please click the Corona virus tab above for links, information and resources related to the corona virus
Dear Seniors,
Its been a while since our lives and schedules were "normal'" and we want to hear how you are doing. Please take this brief survey to let us know how and what you are doing, and how you feel about returning to activities and reopening.
Click here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9MSTMJL
The town halls are operating but online or by phone. If you need anything you would have gone to townhall for, check out their website or call:
South Orange: www.southorange.org, (973) 378-7715
Maplewood: www.twp.maplewood.nj.us , (973) 762-8120
The senior bus services are suspended. Seniors needing transportation to shopping or doctor's appointments can use a special Gogo Grandparent code, "SOMA Seniors" for a free ride. See the transportation page for instructions or can call (973) 558-0863 for arrangements.
South Orange and Maplewood announce the COVID-19: SOMA Senior Support Fund
As our community takes necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, we want to take special steps to support some of our older residents. Our older South Orange and Maplewood residents are the most vulnerable to this disease . If you are an older resident in need of assistance, please fill out the contact form on this page, or call (973) 558-0863. All information will be kept confidential
A Time Before Vaccines
Last year, local photographer Joy Yagid, interviewed several older residents, capturing their stories of growing up in a time before vaccines. Some of the stories seem familiar, especially now, with shutdowns and quarantines. To see the video, click here: "A Time Before Vaccines"
Respond to the Census!
Now more than ever, the importance of the census is clear. Your responses are used for public programs, allocation of funds, and more. Your postcard with an ID number for your household should have arrived You can respond as soon as you receive it. If you did not receive it or have questions, go to https://2020census.gov.
Proud member of the AARP Network of Livable Communities
Support
SOMA Two towns for all ages is supported through the generosity of
The Grotta Fund for Senior Care