THOMASTON — A number of senior residents live alone in Thomaston, with families often living too far away to swing by. It’s not uncommon for a relative out of state to call the police department and request a check on someone whom the relative hasn’t heard from in too long of a time.

Police have always checked on a person when requested to do so. But now, a system has been created that doesn’t have to wait for a loved one to grow concerned.

And then there are the senior citizens who just love a regular opportunity to say hi to someone.

The Thomaston Police Department and the Thomaston Recreation Department have launched its “Community Comfort Line”, a new weekly check-in program designed to support senior residents in Thomaston. Beginning the week of April 3, participants enrolled with the program will receive one scheduled phone call each week from the Thomaston PD’s new administrative assistant, on either Monday or Friday, typically between 10 a.m., and 2 p.m.

“It’s a way for us to check in, ask what’s going on, ask ‘how are you doing?’” said Police Chief Eric Quatrano in describing the new Community Comfort Line initiative during the March 23, 2026 Select Board meeting. This same meeting began with the introduction and swearing-in of two new patrol officers, which puts the roster back to full capacity.

In describing the Comfort Line, Quatrano said: “How it works is, if we call and they don’t answer, we’ll wait about 30 minutes, try again. If there’s still no answer, we’ll dispatch an officer out to check on them. And then from there, we’ll make a determination on if we need to exit the scene or enter, or come up with another plan. We have the emergency contact as well, so we’ll reach out to them as well to inquire if the family gives permission to enter after two phone call attempts.”

Thomaston Recreation Director Justice Barrows has been instrumental in coordinating the new phone service. The idea for the program began with a simple reminder, she said in the news release announcing the program.

“One of my first calls in this role was from a senior member of our community who had seen some recent youth recreation promotion and told me, “don’t forget about us,’” said Barrows. “And I haven’t. We have means to do great things for Thomaston residents, no matter what their age, and this is just the beginning.”

Officers have been provided with wallet-size registration cards, created by Barrows, to have on hand if a resident or their loved one has an opportunity to converse with the officer. A QR code on the back allows the loved one to access an online registration page and enter the required information. The program is voluntary, and only works if the senior gives permission for these calls to occur.

“This program is about being closer to our community and showing up for people in a meaningful way,” said Chief Eric. “A short phone call can make a real difference. It lets our senior residents know that someone is paying attention and cares for their wellbeing. We are here to serve and protect every member of this community, and this is another way we can do that.”

Community Comfort Line is voluntary and free to senior residents of Thomaston. According to the press release, the program reflects a shared commitment between public safety and recreation to strengthen connection, promote wellbeing, and ensure no resident feels overlooked.

“I think it’s a great thing," said Quatrano. "A great thing for our community.”

Registration information is available through the Thomaston Recreation Department at thomastonmaine.gov/seniors.

Enrollment is now open, and town officials encourage seniors and their families to sign up in advance of the April start date.