Open Enrollment November 1, 2015 - January 31, 2016 - apply for Health and Dental insurance.  If you are a current member and want to change your plan you can shop for and choose a plan - compare plans online at www.MAhealthconnector.org.  View flyer for more information.

Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & Islands has certified MA Health Connector Navigators trained to help you! To schedule an appointment or for more information: call 508-771-1727 or walk-in at 372 North St., Hyannis, MA. (We offer services in Falmouth and on Nantucket, by appointment only.)

Can I change my Medicare Plan after Open Enrollment?

Even though Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment ended on 12/7/15 (that's the period in which you can change your Medicare Part D Drug Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan Part C) you may still have some options.  Read more.....

State certified SHINE counselors are trained regarding the enrollment rules that may apply to your personal situation and your personal coverage choices.  Call your local Senior Center to make an appointment with a SHINE counselor or call the Cape & Islands Regional SHINE office at 508/375-6762.

Employers Take Note!  Massachusetts Working on Wellness (WoW) Funding Opportunity

Massachusetts Working on Wellness (WoW) supports employers in implementing comprehensive evidence-based worksite health initiatives.  The program provides employers with expert training, technical assistance, an on-line learning community, and seed funding to help offset the cost of starting a wellness program.  This is an excellent opportunity for employers to invest in the health of their employees and community.

Keep in mind, "employer" in this context is not limited to a for-profit business; non-profits and government entities are eligible to participate too.

At this time, DPH is actively promoting the program and recruiting businesses for the April 2016 cohort.  The application deadline is March 4, 2016.  Additional informational webinars have also be set up.  Interested employers can view webinar dates and register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/7383053825821541890

You can learn more about Working on Wellness by visiting www.maWOW.org.  Contact Shioban Torres at Shioban.torres@state.ma.us or 617/624-6065 with questions. 

Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for the Office Worker:  Desktop and MS office focused to help you be more efficient on your computer.  Students of all skill levels will benefit from this workshop.  Choice of: Tuesday, February 23, 6-8 PM or Thursday, February 25, 11 AM - 1 PM.  

Faster and Safer Computing: Desktop skills to help students move around the desktop easily and efficiently, file system management and various desktop tips.  Choice of: Tuesday, March 1, 6-8 PM or Thursday, March 3, 11 AM - 1 PM.

Both Workshops will be held at the Cape Cod Media Center, 17 Shad Hole Rd., Dennisport.  Fee: $39 per person, $29 for members of the Cape Cod Media Center.  Pre-registration required - email computerhelpcapecod@gmail.com. 

View online version  of the C&I WIB weekly updates.

Winter Preparedness: View the Winter Preparedness Check List.   The Regional Emergency Planning Committee website  has much valuable information on preparing yourself and your pets for an emergency as well as information about sheltering im place and local shelters.

When a storm is threatening, you can also find out the latest status of shelters, transportation, and other local emergency information by listening to WQRC radio (99.9) or calling the Senior Center at 508/539-1440.  For emergency transportation call the CCRTA at 800/352-7155.

Note:  When the Mashpee schools are closed, all Mashpee Senior Center activities and programs, including the van, are cancelled.  However, the Senior Center will remain open and staff will report unless the Town Hall is closed.

AARP Tax-Aide Income Tax Preparation Program:  Call the Mashpee Senior Center at 508/539-1440 for appointments beginning Friday, February 5, 2016 through April 11, 2016.  Appointments will be available on Mondays & Fridays, 9:30 AM - 12 Noon.  Please visit the Senior Center to pick up the Income Tax Questionnaire and bring the completed questionnaire to your appointment.  Read more.....

View the February Newsletter  for more information on activities at the Mashpee Senior Center.

Funding Opportunities:

• Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Grants
• Funding Availability Under Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program

Links to Articles of interest:

• Here's how the White House plans to address rural America's struggle with heroin
• Innovations to Address Opioid Use Disorder