Hundreds of daffodils were picked, bunched and hand delivered to seniors in Dartmouth as a part of the efforts by the Coastal Neighbors Network to foster community on Wednesday, April 10.

Executive Director Andy Pollock said events such as these, bring volunteers and members together not only through the sharing of the flowers themselves, but also the time spent preparing the bouquets. Some of the flowers were brought to Autumn Glen, the living assisted facility on Cross Road.

Coastal Neighbors Network started in 2017 to support Dartmouth and Westport’s “Aging in Place Community,” or elderly residents that are remaining in their own homes as they age. 

The organization is part of the “village” movement, a concept that links seniors aging in place together virtually and which began in Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood, according to the AARP. Pollock said Coastal Neighbors is one of 25 villages in Massachusetts. 

Members pay an annual fee to be part of the network, and receive transportation, friendly visits, help with chores, a list of preferred providers, and health checks in partnership with UMass Dartmouth’s nursing program.

Pollock said membership has now reached over 150 people, with approximately 100 volunteers and over 125 services offered each month.

He said in the past, the movement has been accused of being “elitist.” However, he said approximately 45% of Coastal Neighbors members are below the poverty line. There is an annual membership fee, but seniors pay what they can. 

Pollock said one of the most important aspects of this movement is the socialization that is fostered from it — and members and volunteers agree.

Margaret Jones said she has been a part of the organization since its inception approximately seven years ago. 

“It’s been wonderful,” Jones said of her experience. “I've met so many great people.”

She added how she enjoys helping organize the social events, which are always a “good friend builder.”

In regard to the day’s work, Jones said it was “wonderful” to have this opportunity to share daffodils with seniors: “They really enjoy it and it's a fun project for us as well.”

Helga Faulenbach, who has also been with Coastal Neighbors from the beginning, said she initially only supported the organization, but when her husband became sick, she began to use its services. 

“It's just something we needed here,” Faulenbach said.

She said it's a great way to get to know people better and build a “team spirit,” especially as they get older. 

Seniors often worry about what they will do once they reach an age where not everything can be done around their house independently, Faulenbach said. “To be a member, I think, is really important — and it’s achievable, too.”