Seniors Centre Is Able To Thrive With Generous Grants

Dewberry residents enjoying a gathering at the Dewberry Senior Centre. Photo submitted

The Dewberry Seniors Centre is basking in gratitude as it announces the reception of two substantial grants, propelling its mission to enhance the lives of seniors within the community. The amounts sourced from the County of Vermilion’s Community Enhancement Grant and the Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), helps with operational expenses crucial for fostering active and engaging experiences for the seniors of the community.

In an excellent display of community support, the Dewberry Seniors Centre was awarded a $2,600 grant from FCSS in December 2023. This contribution was swiftly followed by an announcement from the County of Vermilion, granting an additional $3,500 earmarked for community enhancement initiatives.

Expressing appreciation, Eleanor Parr, Secretary of the Dewberry Seniors Centre, emphasized the profound impact of these grants on the vitality of the facility and the well-being of its patrons. “Grants such as these allow us to make our Seniors Centre viable and to keep our seniors active and engaged in activities vital to our community,” remarked Parr, reflecting on the significance of the financial support.

Parr explained the tangible benefits derived from the funding, underscoring the Centre’s capacity to sustain and expand its array of offerings. With these additional resources, the Centre can continue to host a diverse range of activities, including monthly crib tournaments, weekly pool tournaments, a regular exercise program, and engaging sessions of shuffleboard. Moreover, the Centre warmly welcomes seniors four days a week (Monday to Thursday) for casual gatherings over coffee and snacks, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection.

Parr also noted that Thursday evenings is designated for open stage performances where community members can showcase their musical talents. This open invitation fosters a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and collaboration, enriching the social fabric of the Dewberry community.

“The Centre is thriving because of these grants, which provide the essential funding needed to sustain our operations and support the health and vitality of our senior community,” Parr affirmed, encapsulating the profound impact of the grants on the Centre’s ongoing success.