The Nantucket Center for Elder Affairs (NCEA.) was established in October 28, 1975 for the purpose of raising funds to support the senior community of Nantucket. It worked closely with the Counsel on Aging (a state funded agency) in such activities as Meals on Wheels and other activities needed by seniors. The NCEA mission is “to enhance the lives of the seniors of Nantucket and to act as an advocate for all issues effecting our senior community.”

In 1980 the estate of Dorothy M. Souza, wife of Anton Souza, Sr, donated her Union Street property “Saltmarsh” to the NCEA where it served as headquarters for the COA and Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands. The building was far too small to serve the growing needs of the senior community. A search began for a new location for the Saltmarsh Center funded by selling the Souza property. The Washington Street Extension property was offered and leased to the NCEA on a 99 year lease after an article for that purpose passed at a Special Town Meeting in 1984. The Saltmarsh Center building we currently use was constructed and formally opened October 13, 1985.

NCEA has started a major program to expand the center to facilitate the increase in programs and activities offered to our seniors. We expect to be finished some time in June.

Whereas the town owns the land, the building is the responsibility of the NCEA. The NCEA has an agreement for the town to run the senior programs during normal business hours. The NCEA runs after hours programs and supports the regular activities as necessary.