Life Unlimited For Older Adults in Springdale has opened its doors at the Red Leaf Centre once again.
The community organization was forced to shut down many of its programs earlier this year because a lack of funding caused them to lose their coordinator, and thus the support that many of the initiatives needed to fully function.
Now, though, the group says they’re back in business for a full slate of programs following the return of its coordinator, Sharon Pelley, on September 10.
“Some programs and activities were suspended during the summer, with community partners and volunteers maintaining a core of 11 programs throughout June – August,” the group said in a statement.
LUFOA relied on funding from various sources to maintain its existence over the past number of year. The group came near its end back in April when the Nor’Wester reported it would be lucky to last until the end of that month. Following that, the group maintained existence for a while longer, before having to put an end to several of its programs that cater to the Older Adults of the community.
Gloria Shepherd, Bonnie Rowsell, Phyllis Gard and Donna Snow are the team leaders for LUFOA and they say the group has now received funding to enable Ms. Pelley to coordinate some new initiatives that benefit and challenge Older Adults.
Some of the new programs attendees of the group can expect are e-reader training and lending, honoring the contributions of Seniors in the community, producing a book of personal histories, developing programs that enhance healthy living, promoting intergenerational activities, supporting the age-friendly Springdale initiative, and collaborating with partners to address mental health issues in the community.
In addition to the programs, LUFOA will also commemorate National Seniors Day on October 1, they said, with a luncheon and other events at Manuel Hall to celebrate and honor Older Adults.
“This will be followed by a week of special happenings and gatherings to re-introduce programs. The 50+ adults in Springdale will have the opportunity to register for events and become involved in the many recreational, physical, social, and educational activities offered by LUFOA.”
While the new boost is a welcome event for LUFOA and the people who enjoy their programs, the reality of funding or the lack there-of for Seniors in the community is also a problem at the forefront of their minds.
“Funding continues to be a challenge, and we are grateful to volunteers and community partners who continue to work with LUFOA to enrich the lives of Older Adults in our community,” they said.
editor@thenorwester.ca
