The Town of Perinton has launched a new helpline to address the needs of senior citizens in their community during the coronavirus pandemic.

"They are a vulnerable population for this virus," said Ciaran Hanna, Perinton town supervisor.

Hanna says the elderly represent a significant portion of Perinton's population.

"A lot of them may have questions. A lot of them have things that need to be done but they don’t really want to come out of their homes, which is the smart thing to do," said Hanna.

Hanna explains the town has assembled a team of volunteers that can be called upon to assist with common everyday tasks.

"They will try to point them in the right direction if there is a service that can be provided for them. If there is something they need, a need we can fill for them that our volunteer can fill,” said Hanna.

The senior helpline is an extension of the town's 55+ program, which includes recreational, social and educational programs offered at the Perinton Community/Aquatic Center.

Hanna adds the helpline was in the works even before COVID-19.

"Now the need is greater than ever so I felt it was a really good time to accelerate it and get this started right away,” said Hanna.

The helpline is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week and the number to call is 585-209-3205.