Wicked Local
Until last spring, the Tolles Parsons Center was a social hub for many of Wellesley’s seniors. Instead of facing isolation in their homes, they could go to 500 Washington St. to find friendships, a wide variety of programs, help with taxes and health insurance, and a social worker to address personal issues.
But when the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, the center was shut down for in-person patron visits; today, only the fitness center is open, and that on a very limited basis and by appointment only. Other offerings are online.
A core staff, including a director who took over in July and a new assistant director, continue to work at the center, reaching out to seniors about the many virtual activities and programs. Transportation and hot meal delivery are also available -- an average of 28 meals a week, and a total of 141 in December, according to the director’s report.