Hundreds of people attended an inaugural event organized by the South Cariboo AGE-FRIENDLY Initiative, underscoring the large number of seniors in the community looking to connect with each other and life-improving information.
The Seniors Resource Fair brought a variety of close to 30 organizations, businesses and service providers of interest to seniors to one location, the 100 Mile Community Hall on Oct. 23.
Food and refreshments were served, making for a friendly, informative and social atmosphere.
Vendors and visitors all had positive things to say about the event, says organizer Lea Smirfitt, the community co-ordinator for the AGE-FRIENDLY Initiative.
“What we heard from people is they definitely want to see another one; they definitely want it expanded. What made it so good was people received helpful information that really made a difference for them.
“They got some tangible help and, secondly, I heard people really appreciated being able to visit with their neighbours and friends. There were some people who sat in the little cafe area for like four hours visiting with people they haven't seen. That was huge.”
The whole point behind the initiative is helping seniors connect with seniors, and helping seniors connect with resources in the community, such as health care, financial and recreational support, Smirfitt adds.
“That's what you're looking for – how can we connect with more people.”
Smirfitt thanked the many community volunteers and Canlan Ice Sports in 100 Mile House staff for helping make the event a “super success.”