Community in Action Across the NEK

Winter in the Northeast Kingdom can be long and challenging, but it also brings out the very best in our community. Across the region, neighbors, volunteers, schools, businesses, and families continue to step forward in small but powerful ways to support older adults.



This winter alone, more than 1,300 handmade Valentine’s cards were delivered to older adults throughout the Northeast Kingdom, offering a bright moment of kindness during a season when isolation can be especially difficult. For many recipients, these simple cards served as a reminder that their community is thinking of them and values their presence.

Community partners also played an important role in preparing for winter weather. Volunteers from Passumpsic Bank helped assemble more than 700 Blizzard Bags for Home Delivered Meal clients. Each bag contains shelf-stable meals to ensure older neighbors have food available if severe weather prevents meal deliveries or travel.

These efforts reflect the spirit that makes the Northeast Kingdom special—neighbors helping neighbors. Whether it’s delivering meals, volunteering time, creating cards, or lending a hand with everyday tasks, these acts of kindness strengthen the network of care that helps older adults remain safe, independent, and connected in their communities.

At the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging, we are proud to work alongside so many caring partners and volunteers who make this work possible every day.