Sharon Health Department Journal
A vital time to raise awareness about the life-saving impact of organ, eye, and tissue donation
Did you know that April is National Donate Life Month? Each year thousands of people across the country wait for transplants that could restore their health, independence, or even save their lives. One donor can help heal or save up to 8 lives through transplantation and improve the lives of over 75 others through tissue donation - yet the need for registered donors continues to far exceed availability.
National Donate Life Month encourages all of us to learn the facts about donation, honor donors and their families, and consider registering as donors ourselves. By making this decision, you can offer hope to those facing life-threatening illnesses and contribute to stronger, healthier communities.
To learn more or register as a donor, visit your state registry or the national Donate Life website.
This April, we stand together during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, recognizing that many individuals carry the weight of this experience.
Speaking out about sexual assault is incredibly difficult, but you are not alone. Breaking the silence is an act of bravery, and healing begins with understanding, compassion, and open dialogue.
If you or someone you know has been affected, please reach out for support. All conversations are confidential, and help is available 24/7:
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Care Solace: 888-515-7881 (Multilingual support available)
Visit caresolace.com/townofsharon – Search on your own or click “Need Help?” in the upper right for assistance via video chat, email, or phone.
You are not alone. There is hope. There is help.
Meet Emma Cosgro!
Hi Everyone!
My name is Emma Cosgro, and I'm excited to introduce myself as the new Community Relations Manager at HESSCO Elder Services.
I've lived in Walpole for 18 years, raising my three children here, so it's meaningful to now work in the communities that have shaped my family. My path to HESSCO has always centered around people. Inspired by my grandparents and mother, who devoted themselves to their communities, I developed an early interest in social work.
I studied Applied Community Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University in England and first came to the U.S. through a summer work exchange, eventually discovering Martha's Vineyard. I worked in restaurants and catering, earned an associate degree in Culinary Arts, and spent more than 30 years in hospitality as a waitress, chef, and corporate event planner. These experiences taught me customer service, relationship building, and the value of meaningful interactions.
Finding HESSCO felt like everything came together with community-focused work combined with my background in event planning. I'm grateful to be part of a team so dedicated to the individuals and families we serve.
My role focuses on outreach, fundraising, and most importantly, relationships. I aim to be a familiar, supportive presence as HESSCO often enters people's lives during vulnerable moments. I also work to grow our volunteer network, which is essential to programs like Meals on Wheels. Thanks to volunteers, HESSCO delivers over 800 meals each week - each one providing a wellness check, conversation, and connection. For some, it may be the only visit they receive that day.
Although HESSCO is partially government-funded, programs like Meals on Wheels still operate at a deficit. Our current main fundraiser is the Annual Road Race at Mick Morgan's. This year marked our 15th race and my first time planning it. We met our fundraising goal and saw record registration thanks to the teamwork of HESSCO, volunteers, and generous local businesses!
Looking ahead, I hope to grow fundraising opportunities at HESSCO so we can raise more funds, reach more people, and continue providing the highest level of service to those who rely on us.
How can you help? Spread the word! If you see our flyers, newsletters, or social media posts, please share them! Helping us raise awareness is a powerful way to support our mission.
You'll likely see me at the COA, local events, and around the community. Please say hello, I'd love to meet you! Thank you for welcoming me. I look forward to being part of the Sharon community and sharing more through the Sharon Health Journal.
April is National Volunteer Month!
This month, HESSCO is inviting local businesses and community partners to join in saying thank you in a meaningful way.
As we prepare for our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on May 18, there are a few ways to get involved:
- Sponsor 1, or more, volunteers $25 each
- Sponsor a table of 10 volunteers $250
- Donate a gift card, experience, or item to help us create special raffle prizes and gifts
- Support the event through a monetary donation
To donate please visit HERE
Your support helps us celebrate the people who give so much to others and shows them just how valued they truly are. If you've ever thought about volunteering yourself, there is no better time than now. There is a great need of additional volunteers across HESSCO programs. Even a small amount of time can make a meaningful difference in someone's day.
Let's come together this April to honor, support, and grow the spirit of volunteerism in our community.
Interested in volunteering? Reach out to: ecosgro@hessco.org
April 25th is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day!
Held twice annually, National Drug Take Back Day is an event held across the United States where people can anonymously dispose of expired, unwanted, or unneeded prescription medication. This is the 28th year of the event which is hosted by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in a partnership with thousands of law enforcement agencies nationwide.
On April 25th from 9AM-1PM, residents of Sharon can dispose of medications that have passed their expiration date or are simply no longer needed. Tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid mediations are accepted. Liquids such as cough syrups should remain tightly sealed in their original containers.
The goal of Drug Take Back Day is to prevent the misuse and abuse of prescription medications by providing a safe and convenient spot for disposal. The event also raises awareness about the dangers of keeping unneeded medications in the home. This keeps medications out of the hands of children, teenagers, and pets.
If you are unable to make it to Drug Take Back Day or accumulate medications requiring disposal throughout the year, prescription medications can always be disposed of at the Sharon Health Department during Town Hall's business hours. Please use the large red drop box outside of the Health Department and follow the instructions posted! We also have various drug deactivation products to take home! These allow residents to safely neutralize medications at home making them safe for regular trash disposal. If you have questions, as Health Department staff!
Check for Ticks!
Tick Identification Card
Check your Pets!
