FCSS seniors column
Senior citizens have formed the bedrock of communities throughout southern Alberta.
Now, as Seniors’ Week approach on June 7-13, Family and Community Support Services has several unique ways locals can recognize seniors in their communities.
“We’re trying to engage people in all 16 municipalities FCSS serves to do something nice for seniors, to celebrate them and let them know people love them and support them,” said Kaitlynn Weaver, FCSS Outreach Services Supervisor.
One of the ways is through the Celebrate a Senior campaign, where southern Albertans are encouraged to perform a random act of kindness for a senior. That act of kindness can then be shared with FCSS via social media, with the hashtag #celebrateasenior2021, by scanning a QR code found on posters in towns throughout the area or by contacting Renee White, Senior Services Co-ordinator, at 587-3708518 or renee.white@fcss.ca.
“We want people in the community to participate and send me their photos and stories, and they can be entered to win one of four prizes,” said White. Writing a letter, dropping off a gift basket, hosting a virtual music concert or organizing a drive-by parade for seniors are just a few ideas, according to White, who added simple actions like a phone call, volunteer yardwork or making a care package are other ways people can show seniors they care.
“The motivation is to get as many people doing something positive as possible to make an impact in our communities,” said Weaver.
FCSS is also asking local seniors to register for a Celebration in a Bag, which includes resources, coupons and activities.
“The bags are just an opportunity to get seniors doing things they normally would be doing in non-COVID times, but in a safe way,” said Weaver.
To register for a bag, seniors are asked to contact Cindy Lauwen, Volunteer Services Co-ordinator, at 403-9157063 or cindy.lauwen@fcss.ca.
During Seniors’ Week, from June 7-11, Lauwen and White will deliver about 160 Celebration in a
Bag packages to seniors.
The contest and celebration bags are just two ways to help brighten the lives of seniors, many of whom have struggled with the impacts of COVID-19 for over a year.
“The best way to describe it is they’re just sad, lonesome and a little disconnected from the world,” said Lauwen. “We’re hoping these activities will bring some sort of connection and show the seniors some love and that they are being thought of. They are special to us, and this is one way to show it.”
FCSS is also seeking ways to connect youth with seniors in their communities.
“We’re also looking to get youth programs involved as well,” said Weaver. “The Do Crew, for example, is doing a few things in the regions they serve, such as putting cards in the Meals on Wheels being delivered. It’s always nice to have that inter-generational connection, even if it’s from a distance.”
In a typical year, a Seniors’ Week celebration would take place in a select community in the FCSS coverage area, with about 160 attendees. A morning motivational speaker and afternoon entertainment round out the event. And with COVID-19 cases falling and a summer re-opening plan on the horizon, the hope is FCSS can return to that for next year, along with plans for face-to-face contact with seniors in the near future.
“We really miss the seniors,” said Lauwen. “Normally, we get to see them and meet them in person and we’re really excited to see them again.”