Last updated on December 17th, 2025 at 08:45 am
This holiday season, 100-year-old Hope and 97-year-old Don are thriving at home—thanks to Meals on Wheels.
“They’re as good as what I would cook,” Hope laughs.
Their daughter, Laurie, adds: “Knowing my parents can remain at home safely is a gift beyond measure.”
Their story is just one of thousands that highlight the work Age Well does every day to help older Vermonters grow older together with dignity, safety, and connection.
Winter Challenges Older Adults Face in Vermont
Vermont is the second-oldest state in the nation, and many older adults face challenges that often go unseen.
From food insecurity and housing instability to isolation and winter health risks, these challenges can make everyday life difficult. For over 50 years, Age Well has provided compassionate care that helps older Vermonters remain independent, safe, and connected in the homes they love.
Whether delivering meals, offering wellness programs, or coordinating in-home support, Age Well ensures life stays safer, healthier, and more connected.
Making a Difference in Our Community. . .
Last year alone, Age Well:
- Delivered 318,689 nutritious meals across northwestern Vermont
- Supported 16,000+ older adults through care coordination, transportation, and wellness programs
- Engaged 1,092 volunteers who contributed 69,000+ hours to help their neighbors

How Age Well’s Support Transforms Lives
Every service provided by Age Well has a meaningful impact:
- $100 → Two weeks of Meals on Wheels + daily friendly visits & safety checks
Ensures older adults receive nutritious meals and regular social connection. - $250 → Transition support & in-home visits
Helps older Vermonters safely adapt to changes in health or living arrangements. - $500 → In-home support & care coordination
Keeps older adults engaged, healthy, and connected to vital services. - $1,000 → Nourishment for five older Vermonters for a month
Provides meals, wellness checks, and companionship that support independence and quality of life.

Growing Older Together
At Age Well, our mission is to empower and support individuals as they age by providing community connection, access to essential services, and compassionate care. With the generosity of our community, every older Vermonter can grow older with dignity, hope, and a sense of belonging.
About Age Well
Age Well is the largest nonprofit serving older adults across Northwestern Vermont. Offering services like Meals on Wheels, Case Management, and Wellness Support, Age Well empowers Vermonters to age with dignity, safety, and independence.
To learn more about our programs or how we help older Vermonters, their families, and caregivers, visit agewellvt.org or call 1-800-642-5119.
RESOURCE SECTION
Community Support Services
Fuel & Energy Assistance: Keeping Older Vermonters Warm This Winter
Vermont’s long, cold winters can lead to high heating and energy costs—especially for older adults living on fixed incomes. If you or someone you know is struggling to stay warm, help is available.
Don’t wait for an empty tank or heating emergency.
Call the Age Well Helpline: 1-800-642-5119 Visit: agewellvt.org
State of Vermont Heating & Energy Assistance
Income-eligible households may qualify for:
The State of Vermont offers several forms of support for income-eligible households:
- Seasonal Fuel Assistance
- Crisis Fuel Assistance (for heating emergencies)
- Emergency Furnace Repair or Replacement
- Energy Assistance for electricity and utility bills
Programs are administered through Vermont’s Community Action Agencies.
You can apply for fuel assistance online through the MyBenefits Portal, which also provides access to programs like 3SquaresVT:
Weatherization & Home Heating Support
Income-eligible renters and homeowners may qualify for:
- Free home weatherization
- Energy audits,
- Heat pumps LEDs
- Free or discounted appliance
Learn more about the Weatherization Assistance Program through the State of Vermont.
Local wood banks, such as Wood 4 Good, help families stay warm through free firewood deliveries to qualified households.
Efficiency Vermont offers energy-saving programs and support for income-eligible households.
- Website: https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/about
- Phone: 1-888-921-5990




