Client Comments

My worker from Chore Service is capable, bright, willing and adept. She can turn her hand to any chore, from bringing in wood and kindling for the woodstove, to weeding and raking. She drives me to see my husband at the nursing home. That means so much to me. She sees to all my medical appointments and prescriptions and keeps me on track. She has been a true blessing. I know that I couldn't live here at my own home were it not for her wonderful help. She is my right arm and hand, and my trusted, dear friend -- E. from Kent

I first heard of the Chore Service back in 1990 when my husband Monte was home with Alzheimer's and all of my strength was needed to take care of him. This being the case, I was neglecting not only my home, but my gardening, and also using all of my finances. I then called upon your help, as I do today. You have made it possible for My Monte, to live in a clean and peaceful atmosphere before he was admitted to Geer Nursing Home, and to be able to maintain our home in the manner to which we were accustomed. Now once again your Chore Service is helping me and other people keep their dignity. I salute your staff for all their efforts and for your screening abilities, providing reliable and trustworthy people into my home. The words Thank You are not sufficient for my feelings when a young lady leaves my home after she cleans it for me. My spirits are lifted, along with the atmosphere in my home. I will support the Chore Service as long as I am able to. Once again, Thank You. -- M. from Canaan

I've recently had a second surgery on my lower back so Chore Services have literally been a lifesaver to me. I had recently moved and my apartment was a disaster, but Tami never once complained about having to work around boxes, etc. She does a wonderful job and she's always pleasant and willing to do anything I need done. Aside from all of the help she has given me, I am also very comfortable in her presence. At first I felt embarrassed of my living situation and Tami made me feel that it's okay, when you are injured or elderly or limited in any way and you have to ask for help. Thanks so much. I felt very hopeless about my situation until I began using your services. -- K. from Lakeville

It is a joy to write and tell you what a Help the Chore Service has been to me! Not only was it there when I needed it, but you didn't demand payment or insurance -- the ONLY requirement for me to qualify was that I needed help! Your help meant that I could live in clean surroundings in spite of my inability to pay or weakness from an operation. This means that the Chore Service is truly living out Christ's Commandment to love our neighbor as ourself! In a world where Money is god and only those with money can get help, it is a breath of fresh air to make a call for help and to receive it, no questions asked! And, you pay your workers a fair wage! I am grateful beyond telling for the service you have given me so many times in the past. -- N. from Norfolk

One of the joys of the Chore Service, for me, has been the gift of time. Knowing I don't have to face the daunting task of cleaning has made a huge difference in both my mental and physical health. While I was undergoing chemotherapy -- and for months afterwards -- Karen's weekly two-hour visit helped keep me organized and on track, and ensured that I didn't feel so alone and overwhelmed by daily housekeeping tasks. On days when I felt energetic, she helped me clean dusty windows, literally creating a brighter, more hopeful outlook. On days when I felt fatigued, her thoughtfulness including taking my dog for a much needed walk and making me a cup of restorative tea. Although I'm a decade younger than the usual age group, I couldn't appreciate the Chore Servie more, and can only imagine how absolutely essential it is for the isolated elderly of our community. -- V. from Sharon

Worker Comments

I have been writing letters for years about this worthy cause. This is truly a job that brings out the best in everyone. Chore workers get to learn about what wonderful and strong people their clients are. These people worked hard, raised their familites, helped in their community. They had many struggles. This gave them their strength and hope. It is an honor to work for these people, to have their community give something back to them. It is through them we gain the true meaning of compassion, wisdom and hope. We learn friendship and trust. My clients are also my closest friends. I have gotten as much if not more from them as I have given. I would not trade my years in the Chore Service for anything. It has truly enriched my life. -- M. from Kent

I feel very fulfilled and blessed indeed working for the Chore Service. My elderly couple is always so appreciative of everything that I do for them -- big and small; and now that their health has declined somewhat they are even more in need of this wonderful service and all it provides. My couple are not just "clients" nor I just their "chore worker" -- we have become like family throughout the years, and I am trusted as such. Recently during the two months they spent in a nursing home for recuperation and rehabilitation I was called and asked to check the heat, etc., and pick up some checks for them so he could pay bills. Suffice it to say they are a pleasure to work for. The smiles on their faces when they see me on Friday mornings are enough for me! -- I. from Sharon

Thank you, Chore Service, for giving me the opportunity to serve others. It has been a source of income for me, also to feel that in a small way I have helped clients. I truly love all the people I have worked for. -- B. from Falls Village

Just wanted to let you know that my clients are amongst my most favorite people -- needy, grateful and wonderful! During my working hours I'm never too sure as to what will be required of me by people who can't do certain things for themselves, whether it is for health, age or financial reasons. It's extremely satisfying to fill that gap, whether it's vacuuming because their health won't let them do it themselves, ironing because they can't stand for that long, sewing because arthritis or eyesight doesn't permit them to do so, drive to a doctor's appointment, to a social event, or to dispose of garbage -- it's just all part of the caring. I walk dogs, clean guinea pig cages, make menus and teach one wonderful lady how to cook nutritious and well-balanced meals (sometimes I even take a meal in for her when I know her food-bank supplies are running low). What else? I also make telephone inquires for those who perhaps don't hear or understand too well. There are always "surprise" chores in addition to regular ones -- hang a picture, shovel snow, all sorts. It's truly a wonderful service for so many people. -- T. from Kent

D. is getting so much better every week. When I first started she had a difficult time getting motivated. We would just sit and talk. She is a lovely person and has so much to offer; she didn't deserve to be given her lot in life [cancer at age 54]. I have learned a lot from her and feel good every time I leave. -- K. from Dover Plains