Grace Arner of Albert and Pat Scheuerman of Great Bend were honored for their service as Senior Companions at the monthly in-service meeting held in Great Bend on March 20. Arner has served with the program one year. Scheuerman was recognized for three years.

Senior Companions provide daily assistance and friendship to adults needing support to enable them to remain living in their homes as independently as possible. They also provide respite care to family caregivers. There is no cost for the services provided.

Companions are individuals 55 years of age and older. Those with limited incomes receive benefits which include a tax-free stipend of $2.65/hour, a travel allowance, training, accident and liability insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays and recognition. They are insured with accident and liability insurance while serving.  

The Program is sponsored by Fort Hays State University and funded by the Corporation for National & Community Service, Washington, DC. Senior Companions serve in Barton, Ellis, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Trego, Ford, Gove, Graham, Phillips, Hodgeman, Ness and Pawnee counties.

Anyone who is interested in serving others or who has questions may call 785-628-5809.