Empowering Support for Wellness & Aging (ESWA)
Building Community, Connection, and Support

Worcester LGTBQIA+ Elder Network

The Worcester LGBTQIA+ Elder Network (WLEN) is a program of Empowering Support for Wellness & Aging (ESWA) that promotes access to resources, education, support, and social opportunities for LGBTQIA+ older adults throughout Central Massachusetts. WLEN was created to help address the unique experiences and challenges that many LGBTQIA+ older adults face, including social isolation, barriers to services, and the need for welcoming and affirming spaces.

WLEN brings together older adults, caregivers, community organizations, service providers, and allies to foster meaningful connections and strengthen support networks. Through social programs, educational opportunities, community partnerships, and resource sharing, WLEN helps LGBTQIA+ older adults remain connected, informed, and engaged in their communities.

Whether you are seeking social opportunities, supportive resources, community connections, or information about LGBTQIA+ aging, WLEN offers programs and tools designed to help older adults age with dignity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging. Explore the resources below to learn more.

Rainbow Lunch Club

Good Food, Good Company, and Community Connection

The Rainbow Lunch Club provides LGBTQIA+ older adults age 60+ with a welcoming space to enjoy a nutritious meal, build friendships, and participate in social, educational, and recreational activities. The program helps foster meaningful connections while creating opportunities for community engagement, inclusion, and belonging.

The Rainbow Lunch Club currently meets on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month, providing regular opportunities for LGBTQIA+ older adults to connect with peers, share experiences, learn from guest speakers, and enjoy time together in a safe and affirming environment.

Lunches are held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester, 140 Shore Drive, Worcester, MA, and advance reservations are required. Individuals who would like to attend or cancel a reservation should contact WLEN by 9:00 a.m. on the Friday prior to the scheduled lunch. Reservations can be made by calling 508-756-1545 or emailing WLEN@eswa.org.

A suggested donation may apply through the nutrition program; however, no eligible participant is turned away based on inability to contribute. The focus of the Rainbow Lunch Club is to provide a welcoming space where LGBTQIA+ older adults can gather, connect, and build community.

NEW THIS YEAR: Instead of the Rainbow Supper Club, the Rainbow Lunch Club will be hosted the 2nd, 3rd, AND 4th Wednesdays of each month!

The Rainbow Lunch & Supper Clubs

The Rainbow Lunch & Supper Clubs offer LGBTIQ+* seniors age 60+ a nutritious meal and an opportunity to socialize with friends and enjoy various activities including programs, entertainment and educational series.

The Rainbow Supper Club meets the 1st Wednesday of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester, 140 Shore Drive, Worcester, MA. Supper is served at 4:00pm.

The Rainbow Lunch Club meets the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester, 140 Shore Drive, Worcester, MA. Lunch is served at noon.

Advance reservations are required.

A wide variety of nutritious meals are offered ranging from roast turkey to salmon, meatloaf sandwiches to vegetable Alfredo and shepherd’s pie to macaroni & cheese. All the meals are prepared with no added salt and meet 1/3 of the recommended daily intake for persons age 60 and older.

Reservations & Cancellations: If you wish to attend the Rainbow Lunch or Supper Club or cancel your reservation, please call or email WLEN before 9am the Friday before at (508) 756-1545  — wlen@eswa.org. If no one is available please leave a message including your name and phone number and date you plan to attend.

Is there a cost to participate? We suggest a $3.00 donation from guests age 60 and older. The fee for all guests under age 60 is $6.00. Donations and fees help to defray the agency’s cost. The donation is anonymous and voluntary; any amount you can contribute is appreciated.  As always, no eligible senior will be denied service based on their income or their ability to make a donation. We thank you for your continued support and generosity!

Important Notice about Inclement Weather: If the Rainbow Lunch Club is cancelled because of inclement weather (e.g. snow or icy conditions) the cancellation will be announced as “Elder Services of Worcester Meals on Wheels and Dining Centers are closed” on WTAG 580 AM, WSRS 96.1 FM and WXLO 104.5 FM radio stations. Cancellations are also posted on Boston WHDH television channel 7 and WCVB TV, channel 5.

If you are on social media, weather related cancellations are also posted by 9am on ESWA’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Nextdoor, and LinkedIn pages.

You may also call the Office at (508) 756-1545 after 8:00 a.m. for cancellation information. Cancellation information is also posted on www.eswa.org by 9:00 am

The Nutrition Project is administered by Elder Services of Worcester Area, Inc. and receives federal financial support under the Older Americans Act provided by Senior Connection and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs. Funders also include United Way of Central Massachusetts, Greater Worcester Community Foundation, local Councils on Aging, participant donations, grants and individual support.
Connecting You to Inclusive Resources

LGBTQIA+ Resource Guide

WLEN maintains a comprehensive resource guide designed specifically for LGBTQIA+ older adults and their caregivers. The guide includes information on community organizations, healthcare resources, mental health supports, advocacy organizations, social programs, and other services available throughout Central Massachusetts and beyond.

The resource guide is regularly updated to help individuals identify welcoming and affirming resources that support healthy aging, independence, and well-being.

Promoting Inclusion and Understanding

Community Education & Advocacy

WLEN works collaboratively with community partners to raise awareness of the needs, experiences, and contributions of LGBTQIA+ older adults. Through outreach, education, and advocacy efforts, the network helps strengthen inclusive practices and improve access to supportive services throughout the region.

WLEN also provides educational materials, community resources, survey findings, and best-practice information that help organizations better understand and respond to the needs of LGBTQIA+ older adults.

WLEN is committed to creating opportunities for LGBTQIA+ older adults to connect, access affirming resources, and build community. Whether you are looking for information, social opportunities, or supportive services, WLEN is here to help you navigate aging with confidence, connection, and pride.