A Community Comes Together

by Christopher D. LaTorraca ◊ Oct 21, 2011

The Hamden Senior Wish Society is a non-profit, charitable organization established in 2003 to fill a gap left by existing social services and religious programs in the Hamden Community. Wishes granted to seniors address genuine needs that cannot be readily filled elsewhere. Founded by Betty Wetmore, Tammy Murphy, Laurie Kendall-Ellis, Robbie Juliano, Rose Esposito, Susan Nobleman, and Eileen Denny, the Society benefits from the support of board members representing local agencies, corporations, and individuals.

The organization provides gifts up to $300 per wish. “This could be in the form of paying an oil bill, medicine, pets, car repairs, or anything else that is important in the lives of needy seniors who may not have anywhere else to turn,” mentioned founder Betty Wetmore. On Thursday October 20, at Laurel View Country Club the Society held its annual silent/live auction fundraiser. The success of this event was critical for the Senior Wish to serve the needy. Without the generosity at these functions, some folks might be literally “left in the dark.”

Of equal importance is the fact that the organization needs more people to wish. Betty explained, “We need to do a better job of getting the word out on what we do. So many people still don’t know what we’re all about.” The Society also accepts in-kind donations.

The main message that the Hamden Senior Wish Society would like to get out is that they need the public to continue their generosity and people need to come forward who need help. When those two things happen, then a community really does come together. 

To find out how you can become involved, visit www.hamdenseniorwish.org or call 203.281.3500.