SMITHTOWN, N.Y. — The City of Smithtown Senior Center will celebrate 35 years of providing nutritious meals to seniors this spring.
To commemorate this, Senior Center members, volunteers and staff will commemorate the anniversary with a pre-lunch soirée on April 26 at 11 a.m. Members who RSVP will enjoy refreshments and celebrations before sitting down for a hearty lunch.
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“They say nothing brings people together like good food,” Smithtown Supervisor Edward Wehrheim said in a news release. “That’s especially true for nutrition programs…For nearly 45 years, the Senior Center has been a place where friendships are fostered and where our enlightened generation can find the support, resources and tools they need to maintain independence at home longer. “This would not be possible or very likely to be successful without our amazing staff and volunteers who treat our members like family. This program is invaluable to our community.” We look forward to celebrating this milestone with the Center community in April.”
The Smithtown Aging Agency will recognize the center’s operations for “fostering a positive environment of friendship, support and independence” over the 45 years since its opening. The main focus of the day’s festivities is celebrating the 35th anniversary of the nutrition program, which enriches the lives of seniors and facilitates social interaction, which is important to promote health and well-being, according to the town. Recognition will also be given to “outstanding staff and dedicated volunteers” who ensure the growth and effectiveness of the nutrition program at the center.
“What a joy it is to be an integral part of the lives of outstanding seniors,” said Doreen Perino, program director for the Department of Aging. He has wisdom and life experience.” Full of humor! We are very proud that the programs we offer here at the Senior Center have a significant impact on the lives of seniors. These wonderful nutrition programs would not exist or be as successful without the outstanding efforts of our valued staff, volunteers, and of course Ms. Zhan. It is a great pleasure to celebrate these milestones together and to take the time to reflect on all the good work that has been done over the years. We look forward to many years of success and continuing to find new and productive ways to serve the Smithtown senior community. ”
The nutrition program, known as the Congregation Lunch Program (Weekday Lunch), serves approximately 175 seniors each week. This service provides necessary nutrition and a special place for residents to have conversation, fellowship, and laughter. Residents age 60 and older are invited to participate in this social gathering.
Lunch is served Monday through Friday at 11:45 a.m. Registration for this program is first-come, first-served starting in person at 9:30 a.m.
Another amenity available to center members is grab-and-go lunches served to approximately 125 seniors. Typically, these residents are either participating in other activities offered by the center during lunch, or each meal served at Smithtown Senior Center is carefully selected and is currently in the 60+ age group. Either you’re simply dropping by with the confidence that it consists of one-third of your recommended dietary allowance. .
Additionally, Smithtown Senior Center is celebrating its 25th year of offering home-delivered meals, also known as Meals on Wheels. The program currently serves approximately 60 to 70 eligible seniors who are disabled, frail, or have limited support. The town says there are 65 dedicated volunteers who deliver meals to these residents, and in addition to serving meals, they also serve as a consistent, friendly face that provides comfort on a daily basis.
Smithtown residents age 60 and older can join the Smithtown Senior Center by filling out a simple application on-site with proof of residency, such as a driver’s license. There are no fees. Membership cards and welcome packets will be provided, as well as a tour of the facility by a senior center club leader. Your welcome packet includes an up-to-date calendar of activities, classes, and events, as well as a brochure of services and amenities available only to members.
