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Frequently Asked Questions
Membership
| Vendors |
Volunteering
What makes HomePorts different from other programs already available
in the community?
HomePorts assists with the coordination of services in your own
home, similar to those offered in a retirement community. Although
a multitude of programs and services are available to Kent County
seniors, HomePorts is the only non-profit organization in the area
that thoroughly screens its vendors and offers a cadre of volunteers
who focus on older adults, while providing consumer advocacy
services to its members. Membership includes a comprehensive array
of services that facilitate members’ ability to remain in the
comfort and security of your own home.
Do you work with other agencies that provide similar services?
HomePorts is committed to networking with established organizations
to the fullest extent possible. We realize the importance of
constantly identifying unmet needs and finding ways to meet them –
first by locating existing programs, and then by creating new
services through extensive collaboration in the community.
If I am not satisfied with the HomePorts program, may I cancel
whenever I want?
Yes. You may cancel your membership in HomePorts whenever you wish.
Before doing so, we request that you call and tell us why you are
dissatisfied with the HomePorts program.
Membership
What are the terms for HomePorts membership?
Membership is for a full year. The Executive Director visits each
potential member to determine their unique needs.
How much does it cost to join HomePorts?
The annual fee is $300. Anyone over the age of 55 living in Kent
County, Kingstown, Crumpton or Millington is eligible to join
HomePorts.
Do you share your mailing list with other agencies?
Never. Our list is kept private. We do, however, share our members’
names with other HomePorts members if permission has been given to
do so.
What if I plan to be out of town for several weeks on vacation?
As part of your membership, HomePorts can provide weekly house
checks during your absence. Please notify us so we can make
arrangements prior to your departure.
Vendors
How do you select vendors?
We obtain recommendations for local business persons and individuals
from satisfied customers. We maintain referrals for the types of
services our members request. Each prospective vendor is interviewed
and background checks are conducted on those doing home care,
financial services, and house cleaning. Each signs a written
agreement.
What if the vendors I use are not on HomePorts’ list?
Feel free to continue using your favorite vendors, but if they are
not listed as a vendor, we will not be involved in background
checks, or consumer advocacy. If you give us your vendor
recommendations, we will contact them to see if they are interested
in applying to become a HomePorts vendor.
How are services arranged with the HomePorts vendors?
You should contact the vendors directly, following a referral from
the Executive Director.
What if I have a problem with a vendor or the work that was done?
Call HomePorts to discuss the details of your concern. It is our job
to ensure your satisfaction.
What if I need a service and HomePorts does not have a vendor listed
who provides that service?
If the service you need is for home care, home repair, or
maintenance, we will try to locate a recommended vendor for you to
contact.
Volunteering
What types of volunteer opportunities does HomePorts offer?
Possible volunteer opportunities include, but are not limited to
committee work, public relations, visitation/companionship, member
transportation, or office assistance.
How do I become a HomePorts volunteer?
Call the HomePorts office and you will be provided with paperwork
that includes an application form which is required of all
volunteers as well as written procedures and guidelines. Once you
are a HomePorts volunteer you will be contacted when a need is
identified that matches your interests.
Is there any volunteer opportunity for assistance to low income Kent
County residents?
The HomePorts Board is now developing plans to provide scholarships
to a number of Kent County residents and hopes to receive grant
funds to support this program.
Do I have to commit to a certain number of hours or a regular
schedule?
No, there is no minimum time requirement for HomePorts volunteers.
All volunteers are encouraged to commit to the amount of time they
feel they can manage.
What if I am already volunteering with another agency?
Great! If there is time to add HomePorts to your already busy
schedule, we would love to have you as a part of the HomePorts
volunteer team.
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