FAQs

CSSC FAQs

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General

Do you have to be a resident of Colonie to use the services?

CSSC programs and services are open and available to anyone, regardless of residency. Umbrella of Colonie and Transportation are reserved for Town of Colonie Residents because they are funded in part by the Town of Colonie.

How can I stay updated on the latest activities?

Email us at info@colonieseniors.org and ask to be placed on our email list. Or call (518) 459-2857 ext. 303 with your mailing address.

How do I get to the Senior Center at the Beltrone Living Center?

Is Colonie Senior Service Centers a department of the Town of Colonie?

No. Colonie Senior Service Centers is an independent, community based not for profit. We provide all of the senior services for the Town who provides financial support to Colonie Senior Service Centers.
Driver Fitness Center

Is this a program that will help me get a driver’s license?

No. The program is not designed to help participants get a license, but it is intended to help older drivers keep their license longer.

Will this program make me a safer driver?

The goal of the Driver Fitness Center is to empower and educate older adults with information, tools and resources to drive safer, longer.
Healthy Aging Programs

How old do you have to be to participate?

Healthy Aging classes are available to all older adults above the age of 55.

Do these programs cost anything?

Costs for classes vary. Some classes suggest a contribution, some have a fixed fee and some are free.
Senior Dining Program

How much does it cost?

The suggested contribution is $3, if entertainment is provided, it is $5.

Do I have to make a reservation?

We request that people call in their reservation a day in advance, so that we can be sure we will have enough food for everyone.

Are there options for what I can eat?

Each day, diners have their choice of the daily hot meal, a cold fruit salad plate, or a cold tuna salad plate.
Catering

Room availability and size

Food/catering prices

Liquor/Bar availability
Sheehy Manor

How old do you need to be?

At least one of the residents in the unit must be 62 or older.

What is the maximum income allowable?

Single (31,740) or Couple (36,240).

What is the size of the unit?

All units are one bedrooms - about 600 sq. ft.

How long is the waiting list?

Approximately 12-18 months

Do you allow pets?

Yes cats and dogs (under 35lbs) with a $100 non-refundable deposit

What utilities are included?

Heat and hot water.

How much will I pay in rent?

Rent is 30% of adjusted gross income.
Transportation

How much time in advance should I make my ride appointment?

As soon as you make your appointment, please call our transportation department to book your trip. We start booking trips as early as 6 weeks ahead of time, to make sure that we are operating as efficiently as possible, but it is possible that we may be able to squeeze you into the schedule with just a days notice. If we are unable to provide you with transportation, we will be able to provide you with alternative transportation providers.

When are Transportation Services closed?

On weekends and all traditional holidays. During the winter months, transportation is cancelled when Colonie Schools close due to inclement weather.

What if my medical appointment time changes?

Transportation may be available for last minute changes to your medical appointments if the schedule permits.

I’m in a wheelchair. Can I still utilize transportation services?

Yes, vehicles with wheelchair lifts are available. Drivers may not assist passengers with wheelchairs up or down stairs, or enter homes. A ramp or ground level doorway must be available.

How much does a trip cost?

The suggested contribution for a trip is $3 each way within Colonie, $4 if you are travelling outside of Colonie, and $5 if you are utilizing a wheelchair.

What if I need a wheelchair or walker?

We can accommodate non-motorized wheelchairs and walkers on our vehicles.

What are small group trips?

Small Group Trips is a program where seniors can rent a bus with a driver to go anywhere they’d like to go, for a low hourly rate. This is a great program for a group of people who would like to travel together to see a show, museum or out for a special meal.
Umbrella of Colonie

Do you have to live in Colonie?

Yes. Umbrella of Colonie serves residents of the Town of Colonie, The Village of Colonie and the Village of Menands.

How much does it cost?

The Umbrella membership fee is based on a sliding scale, determined by your income. The maximum annual membership fee is $250. Handyman services are available for $12 an hour. Umbrella members also have access to licensed plumbers and electricians at a significantly reduced rate.

Do you have guys that fix everything?

If you have a job, we have a guy (or gal! Many handymen are ladies). Our handymen and contracted service people do everything from grocery shopping, lawns, haircutting, wall papering and even do the windows!

Do you have to own your own home?

No, but permission from the property owner must be secured before work will be done on the property.

How old do you have to be for Umbrella membership?

Umbrella is for adults 55 and older, or 50 and older for adults with disabilities.
Volunteering

What kinds of volunteering jobs do you have available?

Volunteers are the heart and soul of CSSC’s programs. Our volunteers lead activities in Bright Horizons, serve lunch in our senior dining program, teach exercise in our Health and Recreation programs, stuff envelopes, and drive seniors to their doctor appointments. With 6 major program areas and 4 major events, Colonie Seniors can always use a helping hand. If you’re interested in helping out, email volunteers@colonieseniors.org for help finding the perfect volunteering opportunity to suit your needs and availability.