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The Wilton Social Services Department and the Office of the First Selectwoman are developing a Senior Discount Program to offer discounts to senior residents (age 65 and older) at participating Wilton-based organizations and businesses. Officials hope to identify businesses that currently offer discounts to senior residents as well as recruit new businesses and organizations that are interested in participating in such a program.
The department has developed a short, on-line survey for representatives of businesses and organizations to take in order to identify current discount programs and potential new discount programs for seniors.
A senior discount program would encourage seniors to shop locally and enjoy savings while spending is kept in the Wilton community. A number of neighboring communities, including Ridgefield and Fairfield, offer similar programs, which have been very well received by both businesses and senior residents. Several Fairfield businesses reported that they saw a significant increase in foot traffic and sales.
The Board of Selectmen, the Wilton Economic Development Commission, and the Wilton Chamber of Commerce have all shown their support for the idea.
An on-line Senior Discount Program brochure would list participating businesses and organizations and their associated discounts as well as provide information on discounted and free services provided by the Town of Wilton. While the brochure primarily would be an on-line resource, printed copies would also be made available at the Wilton Senior Center and other designated locations around town.
Senior residents would only need to show an ID to qualify for available discounts.
“We are thrilled to be working on such an exciting project that will be beneficial to our senior residents,” says Sarah Heath, director of Wilton Social Services. “Some businesses in town already offer discounts to seniors, and we hope to encourage more businesses to do the same. The on-line brochure will include town services available to seniors and benefits associated with being a senior in Wilton.”
All Wilton based businesses and organizations are invited to complete the online survey to express interest in participating in the program. Officials say the survey will take less than five minutes to complete.
Questions about the program may be emailed to Sarah Heath or Sarah Gioffre.