Caregiving Program

Volunteer Caregivers are the heart of our work. Individuals and groups act as a "second family" with their care receivers, allowing the homebound to remain a functioning part of the community — and adding a special group of friends to their lives. Volunteering as a caregiver is a way to give time in service to others, with the extra benefit of the company and support of a small network of other like-minded people.

We are brought together by our common conviction that acts of caregiving nurture the best in our hearts and spirits. No religion or faith experience is taught or preferred through our programs, and our services are provided at no cost to participants. Older adults and disabled or chronically ill people of all ages living in Jefferson County who wish to remain independent and in their own homes for as long as possible will find practical support and companionship.

Sometimes a situation may be beyond the scope of what we alone can offer or a request may be complicated and especially challenging. In these cases, our staff can connect you with the help you need, through either information or referral. Please feel free to call on us anytime, should you have an inquiry.

Typical kinds of volunteer caregiving services we provide include:

• Transportation to and from medical appointments
• Companionship (visiting and telephoning)
• Household chores
• Mowing the lawn, raking leaves or shoveling snow
• Organizing paperwork and bills
• Sharing a ride to church or the grocery store
• Preparing meals

Medical Equipment Loan Program

Good Shepherd maintains an inventory of medical equipment, including donated wheelchairs, hospital beds, walkers, etc. It is loaned in "as is" condition to Jefferson County residents. From time to time, we receive new and disposable items that we give at no cost to those in need or to other agencies.

Parish Nurse Coalition

Good Shepherd has an ongoing relationship with the Eastern Panhandle Parish Nurse Coalition (EP-PNC). Parish nurses are specially-trained registered nurses who serve as caregivers to members of faith congregations and the wider community by integrating spirituality and health. Their approach stems from the belief that a healthy lifestyle incorporates more than the physical body; it includes emotional and spiritual aspects, too. Parish nurses are excellent resources for health information and are caring counselors. If you wish to learn more about the Parish Nurse Coalition, please contact us and we will be happy to put you in touch with the coordinator for EP-PNC.

How To Receive Care

Our staff and dedicated volunteers are standing by to help. If you wish to speak with us in person, feel free to stop by our office or give us a call to talk with us about your needs. Otherwise, the documents below should be all you need. Of course, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us.

Please take the time first to read our Care Receiver Policies and Procedures.

Then print out a copy of our Care Receiver Application and our optional Poverty Level Form, fill them out, and mail or bring them to our offices. We'll take it from there.