For senior citizens who don’t know who to call when they need a helping hand, things are about to get a little easier.

The Ironton City Health Department recently added a new member to its staff who will work with the senior population to help them find the resources they need, whether that be someone to cut their lawn or just someone to talk to.

Patti Deer is the senior citizens liaison for the health department and will work on a contract basis to “be a voice for seniors.”

“I want to get into the community, get to know these folks,” Deer said. “Have them call me when they need something done.”

Deer, who found employment at the Ironton Senior Center and the health department through the Mature Services agency, said she saw a need for Lawrence County’s seniors to have representation during May’s Senior Citizen Day at the fairgrounds.

“The worst thing for a senior citizen is just to be left,” Deer said. “To me, that’s not right.”

Deer said any senior can contact her if they need help.

Laura Brown, health commissioners, said the city’s board of health is excited to have Deer on as a liaison for the senior community.

“Any senior who needs the help, we will work with them,” Brown said.

Deer can be reached at 740-532-2172.

Seniors seeking information about employment through Mature Services can contact the Portsmouth office at 866-734-2301.