GLSS News and Events

GLSS Wellness Pathways Seeks New Workshop Leaders

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:57:00 GMT

GLSS HEALTHY LIVING PROGRAMS SEEKING VOLUNTEER LEADERS

Wellness Pathways at GLSS seeks new leaders to deliver evidence-based wellness workshops in the community. These workshops help participants build practical skills to manage chronic conditions, reduce fall risk, improve wellness, and increase confidence in managing their health day to day.

We are currently offering leader training opportunities for the following programs:

Chronic Disease Self-Management for adults living with ongoing conditions
Chronic Pain Self-Management for individuals living with persistent pain
Healthy Eating for Successful Living , a workshop focused on supporting healthier eating habits
Diabetes Self-Management for individuals with diabetes and pre-diabetes
Cancer: Thriving and Surviving for individuals living with cancer, whether in treatment or post-treatment, and their caregivers.
Diabetes Self-Management for individuals living with diabetes and pre-diabetes
HIV Self-Management , for individuals living with HIV
A Matter of Balance , an evidence-based fall prevention workshop for older adults

For more information about becoming a workshop leader (training and ongoing support provided) or to register for a workshop, visit the link below or contact Jousette Anaya, Program Supervisor/Master Trainer SMRC (janaya@glss.net) or call 978-398-9115.

GLSS Celebrates Pride Month

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:38:00 GMT

For many years, GLSS has been a presence at the North Shore Pride Parade and Festival. We are proud to support this organization and its efforts to support the LGBTQIA community. Thanks to all the staff who participated and stopped by to say "hello!".

Farmer's Market Coupon Distribution - July 23

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 16:10:00 GMT

GLSS and Phoenix Food Hub are excited to announce this summer's Farmer's Market Coupon Distribution Day!

FREE $25 Farmer’s Market Coupons will be distributed:

When:
Thursday, July 23, 2026
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where:
Phoenix Food Hub/Greater Lynn Senior Services
8 Silsbee Street, Lynn

Who:
Must be 60 years or older, Lynn residents with low income. Please bring your ID.
Limit one booklet per person. Booklets contain five $5 coupons.

Coupons can be used at the Lynn Farmer's Market and at over 40 other markets and farm stands throughout the North Shore.
Coupons will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you have questions about coupon distribution, please call Greater Lynn Senior Services at (781) 599-0110

Click here to download a flyer in English and Spanish.

Milestone Anniversary Events

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:15:00 GMT

GLSS CELEBRATING 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2026

Greater Lynn Senior Services (GLSS) is pleased to announce that it is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Established in 1976, GLSS delivers critical services through multiple programs to families and individuals of all ages. In fulfilling our fundamental mission of promoting community livability for all, GLSS programs are designed to address the social elements of health that undermine the well-being of the most vulnerable among us. The agency celebrated with a community event on April 30 and a staff event on May 13.

GLSS, which employs a staff of over 225, regularly supports 8,000 individuals and families in its role as an Aging Services Access Point and Area Agency on Aging, delivering critical resources to 5,000 elders and their caregivers in Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott. The agency’s Population Health programs serve 2,800 younger individuals and families throughout the North Shore, North Suburban, and Merrimack Valley regions, including nutrition-related services to over 800 residents of all ages in Lynn and surrounding communities.

In essence, GLSS plays a vital role in building healthier and more livable communities by providing a wide array of services that empower individuals to maintain their independence, safety, and well-being.

“I am truly humbled to be at the helm of this agency to celebrate this milestone anniversary,” said Kathryn Burns, GLSS’ CEO since 2020. “GLSS is just one of the critical non-profits that support Greater Lynn and communities throughout the North Shore, but our special connection to serving the needs of older adults is unprecedented.”

Since its inception, GLSS has responded to the changing needs of consumers by providing a continuum of community health and human services to help people age 60 and older live independently, safely and with dignity, for as long as possible. Over time, that mission has grown to include adults of all ages living with disabilities and, more recently through several programs, children as young as age 3.

GLSS provides access to services through information and referral; home care services; nutrition programs; mobility management; housing supports; clinical and protective services; programs designed to promote consumer engagement and better health and well-being; and new initiatives aimed at creating stronger, more livable communities for all.

The roots of GLSS date back to 1960 when a group of concerned citizens established the Lynn Council on Aging, initiating services such as advocacy, home-delivered meals and nutrition sites, mental health and nursing clinics, adult day health, transportation, outreach, and other activities. In 1975, the Council on Aging joined the four other Councils on Aging in Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott to develop a completely integrated service system for older adults in the Greater Lynn area.

“I have served on the GLSS Board of Directors for over 25 years,” said Nelson Chang, a Saugus attorney. “I have seen the transformation of this organization from a senior services agency to one that that now serves all—children living with autism, young people living with disabilities, and, of course and always, older people in keeping with its original mission.”

Although many of GLSS’ programs are funded in whole or in part by federal and state funds, we depend on – and welcome – community support to help us cover the gap. To learn more visit https://www.glss.net/Join-Us/Donate-Now.

"Kitchen for All" Announces Summer Meetings

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 15:25:00 GMT

KITCHEN FOR ALL

A Collaboration with the Lynn Disability Network

June 23, June 30, July 7, and July 21 from 5:00–6:00 p.m.

RSVP to elopez@glss.net

These classes are open to all children ages 4-12, especially those with special needs, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please note that space is limited and registration is required.

GLSS' Rainbow Alliance to Hold Italian Cooking Class on Thursday, March 26

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:57:00 GMT

GLSS' RAINBOW ALLIANCE TO HOLD AN ITALIAN-THEMED COOKING CLASS ON THURSDAY, MARCH 26

Local chef Michel Chamsarian will lead this event for people age 50 and older who identify as LGBTQ+. Participants are invited to bring a significant other, a family member, friend, or ally.

Thursday, March 26, 2026 – 2:00 P.M.

Phoenix Food Hub

Greater Lynn Senior Services

8 Silsbee Street, Lynn, Mass.

March 2026 Food and Thought Newsletter

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:41:00 GMT

Download a copy here .

GLSS Receives Prestigious SageCare Credential

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:13:00 GMT

GLSS RECEIVES SAGECARE CREDENTIAL FOR WORK WITH LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY

Greater Lynn Senior Services’ Rainbow Alliance Committee is proud to announce that the Agency has achieved the prestigious SAGECare credential. The certification from SAGE signifies that GLSS’ employees have completed training in LGBTQ+ cultural competency for providing care to older adults and a commitment to creating a respectful, affirming, and inclusive environment for all. GLSS was able to participate in SAGECare’s nationally recognized training program for free.

“Becoming SAGECare credentialed supports our commitment to being an inclusive provider and employer,” said Kathryn C. Burns, GLSS’s CEO. “In order to achieve the certification, at least 50 percent of our staff needed to complete a training module offered by SAGECare, and. I am pleased to note that we exceeded that number by quite a bit.” The trainings offered by SAGECare include topics such as “Supporting LGBTQ+ Older Adults,” “Asking Inclusive Intake Questions,” and “Guidance and Grace: Preparing LGBTQ+ Older Adults for End of Life.”

“SAGECare trainings address the challenges and discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community at large with special focus on understanding the unique circumstances experienced by older adults,” said Holly Jarrell-Marcinelli, Senior Director of Consumer Services at GLSS. She notes that many individuals may not have children or may be estranged from family members and, as a result, may be more reliant on services and supports from organizations like GLSS to help them remain safe and independent as they age.

The SAGECare training initiative is a project of GLSS’ Rainbow Alliance, a committee of GLSS employees interested in supporting LGBTQ+ consumers, employees, and community members. “Knowing we work with so many people who are willing to learn about each other and to be helpful in this way makes a huge impression on me,” said Jerrod Webb-Gaudian, GLSS’ Meals on Wheels Supervisor and member of the Rainbow Alliance. “This achievement makes GLSS an even more caring and supportive place for all of us—consumers, staff, and allies alike.”

The Rainbow Alliance is planning a number of upcoming events and activities to engage with LGBTQ+ older adults in an effort to provide meaningful opportunities to connect with others. If you are interested in receiving more information, please contact mgilligan@glss.net .

SAGECare provides training and credentialing to help healthcare and elder care providers deliver culturally competent and affirming care to LGBTQ+ older adults. Its parent, SAGE—founded in 1978—is the largest and oldest American organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older people.

GLSS is the Aging Services Access Point and Area Agency on Aging serving people age 60 and older in the Greater Lynn area. The agency offers information and referral; in-home services; meals and nutrition; clinical counseling and support; elder protective services; mobility and healthy living workshops; and long-term services and supports. Several of its programs reach beyond the Greater Lynn area, serving people of all ages throughout the North Shore and Merrimack Valley.

GLSS Announces 2026 Lique Human Services Scholarship

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 22:49:00 GMT

SCHOLARSHIP AVAILABLE TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS THROUGH GREATER LYNN SENIOR SERVICES

Greater Lynn Senior Services is accepting applications from high school seniors through the Lique Human Services Scholarship. A total of $10,000 will be awarded to up to five students who have an interest in or are considering a career in human services and who have made an impact in their community or the world through service.

The Lique Human Services Scholarship will be awarded to seniors who attend one of the eight high schools located in GLSS’ service area of Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott. These schools include Lynn English and Lynn Classical High Schools; Lynnfield, Saugus, and Swampscott High Schools; Kipp Academy Lynn Collegiate; Lynn Vocational Technical Institute; and St. Mary’s High School. The scholarship is named in memory of Vince Lique, who served as the Agency’s Executive Director for nearly 25 years and who devoted his career to helping others, particularly vulnerable senior citizens and people of all ages with disabilities, demanding that all people be treated with dignity and respect.

“Vince’s legacy is firmly rooted in his compassion for people. He measured success by the quality of his service to and advocacy for others,” said Kathryn C. Burns, GLSS’ Chief Executive Officer. “I believe in Vince’s theory that one’s individual success is directly related to the benefits received by those around us. The Lique Human Services Scholarship honors the man and his service by encouraging others to do the same.” She noted that this is the scholarship’s 20th year assisting young people in our area.

Applications are available through each high school’s guidance office or can be downloaded at www.glss.net. Applications are due on or before Friday, April 3, 2026.

More information is available at www.glss.net . If you have any questions, please contact scholarships@glss.net.

January 2026 Food for Thought Newsletter

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:52:00 GMT

https://phoenixfoodhub.org/Home/News-and-Events/food-and-thought-newsletter-january-2026

GLSS Receives $100,000 Grant from State to Develop Volunteer Workforce

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:47:00 GMT

GLSS RECEIVES $100,000 GRANT FROM EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF AGING AND INDEPENDENCE TO DEVELOP VOLUNTEER WORK FORCE TO HELP AREA CAREGIVERS

Greater Lynn Senior Services (GLSS) recently received a $100,000 grant from the Healey-Driscoll Administration through the Executive Office of Aging and Independence to help caregivers in Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott. The funding will be used to develop a volunteer workforce that will be available to assist family caregivers, specifically around the challenges of dementia care.

The funds were made available through a federal grant of more than $400,000 given to five community-based organizations that will support the economic security of family caregivers across Massachusetts. GLSS is partnering with Senior Care, Inc., Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services, and Positive Approach, LLC.

“Family caregivers work incredibly hard – often holding a full-time job in addition to supporting a loved one,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We know many caregivers struggle with balancing their own work and finances, as well as their loved ones,’ and these grants will help provide family caregivers with the support they need to pay the bills.”

AARP estimates the average caregiver pays more than $7,200 annually in out-of-pocket costs for transportation and other needs. In total, family caregivers provide an estimated 36 billion hours of care for older parents, spouses, and other family members and friends.

“A lot of people are affected by caregiving in different ways. And people often want to give back these days, and some people have a special spot in their heart for caregivers. So this gives us a way to honor people who want to be involved — and to provide more support for caregivers from people who really want to help them,” said Michele Parr, GLSS caregiver specialist.

GLSS’ Family Caregiver Support Program provides free assistance—including education, counseling, training, and support groups—to caregivers in Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott, with a special focus on serving families and individuals who are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss. To learn more, visit www.glss.net, or call Michele Parr, Family Caregiver Support Specialist, at 781-586-8635 or email mparr@glss.net.

Medicare Plan Finder Tutorial Video

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT

The Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) along with AARP produced a step by step video tutorial for consumers on Medicare and the use of the Medicare Plan Finder .

The video explains coverage options and demonstrates how to use the Medicare Plan Finder to compare Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans available in one's area. It may be a helpful resource for consumers who are not able to schedule an individual SHINE appointment before the end of Open Enrollment.

The English language version is available at this link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFgjEI3-SZ0

A Spanish language version is coming soon.

September 2025 Food for Thought Newsletter

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:33:00 GMT

Download a copy here .

August Food and Thought Newsletter

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 18:56:00 GMT

Download a copy above.

July Food and Thourght Newsletter

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 18:53:00 GMT

Download a copy above.

Farmers Market Coupon Distribution

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:54:00 GMT

GLSS and Phoenix Food Hub are excited to announce this summer's Farmer's Market Coupon Distribution Day!

Free $25 Farmer’s Market Coupons!

When:

Thursday, July 31, 2025, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where:

Phoenix Food Hub/Greater Lynn Senior Services

8 Silsbee Street, Lynn

Who:

Must be 60 years or older, Lynn residents with low income. Please bring your ID.

Limit one booklet per person. Booklets contain five $5 coupons.

Coupons can be used at the Lynn Farmer's Market and at over 40 other markets and farm stands throughout the North Shore.

Coupons will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you have questions about coupon distribution, please call Greater Lynn Senior Services at (781) 599-0110

Nutrition Program Request for Proposals

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 16:48:00 GMT

Requests for Proposals
The GLSS Nutrition program is seeking bids for a caterer’s contract for Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals.

Click here for the instructions and bid specifications for the RFP.

Sealed bids will be accepted up to 5:00 pm on July 11th 2025. Bids that are mailed must be postmarked no later than July 11th. Bids received after that date endorsed or signed will be rejected.
PROPOSALS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN TRIPLICATE AND ENCLOSED IN A SEALED ENVELOPE MARKED “SEALED BID” AND ADDRESSED TO:

Nick Anander, Nutrition Program Director
Greater Lynn Senior Services, Inc.
8 Silsbee Street
Lynn, MA 01901

(781) 599-0110
FAX: (781) 477-9631

Service area: Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, Swampscott

June 2025 Food and Thought Newsletter

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:52:00 GMT

Download a copy here .

GLSS Issues RFP for Phoenix Food Hub Community Grants

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:19:00 GMT

The Phoenix Food Hub and Greater Lynn Senior Services invite community organizations to apply for funding that supports nutrition initiatives and the reduction of food insecurity in Lynn.

This funding will support community initiatives that:

meet a specific and demonstrated need.
serve populations that are typically harder to reach.
strengthen collaboration across the PFH network.

The deadline to apply is 5 pm on Monday, June 30, 2025.

For full details and application materials, please visit
https://phoenixfoodhub.org/For-Providers

If you have questions, please contact Lema Sharifi, Community Grants Administrator, by email lsharifi@glss.net.

GLSS Issues RFP for Title III Grants Programs

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:15:00 GMT

GLSS requests proposals from organizations to provide services in Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, and Swampscott to persons 60 and older under Title III-B of the Older Americans Act.

Anticipated maximum funding allocations:

Up to $32,000 for in-home support for maintaining independence including assistive technology, transportation access and availability, affordable healthcare, staying active/wellness promotion, access to services (nutrition, financial services, health insurance applications), access to healthcare, affordable housing (including home modification and accessing rental assistance); and outreach and services that provide support to elders experiencing social isolation including digital literacy and intergenerational opportunities. Current grants average $7,500 each.
Up to $27,000 for elder legal services.

Project funding period: October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026 with an opportunity for renewal October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027 pending federal funding and the achievement of identified service objectives.

All grants are subject to the availability of federal funding. Minority businesses /organizations are encouraged to apply.

For application materials, please click here

Completed applications are due no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Contact Heather Sievers, Title III Planner, by phone 781-599-0110 ext. 6707 or email HSievers@GLSS.net for application materials or more information. GLSS is an AA/EEO agency.

GLSS Invites Community Comment on Draft Area Plan on Aging 2026-2029

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 22:34:00 GMT

If you have comments, please contact hsievers@glss.net.

Celebrating Pride Month!

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:23:00 GMT

Come by the GLSS table at North Shore Pride Festival on June 28 at the Salem Common. The event runs from 11:00-5:00 p.m.,, with a parade kicking off from Shetland Park in Salem at 12:00 Noon.