A Greenville resident is helping to launch a new New Ipswich Recreation program aimed towards seniors, particularly those in need of regular company and interaction.

Jody Nichelson of Greenville approached the New Ipswich Recreation Committee about starting a “Coffee and Cards” group, which would meet once a week for breakfast, coffee, and a game.

Nichelson said it’s become a bit of a passion project for her, after an experience she had a few years ago. She joined a meal train for an elderly resident who was living alone and recovering from chemotherapy treatments. She baked him a batch of cookies designed for chemo patients, with nutrients they need.

“He loved them and asked for more, and said it gave him hope that he was going to beat this. That’s really when I realized there was this need,” Nichelson said. “There are others who are isolated, and some who are just lonely. There are too many people who are too alone.”

She approached the New Ipswich Recreation Committee about setting up a weekly senior meet-up, and received permission to run the program through the Recreation Department.

The idea has gained momentum, with volunteers stepping up to offer to provide breakfast or coffee and run the games, Nichelson said. Some have even offered to run other programs for seniors, such as starting a dancing program or a choir or chorus.

But first, Nichelson said, she needs to see if local seniors will join. The Coffee and Cards program has already had some interest, and Nichelson hopes to secure a space that can accommodate upwards of 30 participants.

“We’ve got the space, we’ve got enthusiasm from volunteers, now if we get participants, that would be fabulous,” Nichelson said.

The program will be free, and is planned to cater mainly to residents of New Ipswich and Greenville. And Nichelson said she’s working on a carpooling solution for those residents who don’t have access to transportation but want to be involved – after all, she said, it’s exactly those types of residents she wanted to start the program for.

The location and time of Coffee and Cards is still being finalized.

Nichelson said there currently is enough volunteers for the program, but anyone who wishes to learn more information, donate, or inquire about carpooling, can contact Nichelson at jodynh@gmail.com or 380-0069.