Social Day Care program celebrates 15 years

By Andrea Holbrook
Staff Writer

September 12, 2008 04:15 am

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For 15 years, Gloucester's senior citizens have had a place to spend the day, where they can enjoy activities with their peers.

Today, Christie Parker will play host to more than 40 people tied to the Council on Aging's Social Day Program as they celebrate its 15th anniversary with a party from 12:30 to 2 p.m., including a buffet lunch, speakers and other events, at the Rose Baker Senior Center at 6 Manuel F. Lewis St. Parker will present certificates of recognition to several people.

Parker has been director of the program since its inception. At least one of today's party goer has also been attending Social Day from its beginning, she said.

The program is for seniors who are usually homebound and alone, and provides respite for caregivers as well.

"The program offers wonderful opportunities for seniors to socialize,'' she said. "We offer activities, speakers, trips, yoga, talks on different topics, concerts and parties. This summer we went to Stage Fort Park for picnics."

Parker said the self-supporting program costs $25 a day and runs Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Each day includes a full-course lunch midday, and door-to-door transportation is provided by CATA Dial-a-Ride.

Further information on the Gloucester Council on Aging Social Day Program is available by contacting Parker, at the Rose Baker Senior Center, at 978-281-9765, ext. 20.