Bradford CHATS (Community and Home Assistance to Seniors) is hosting a drive-thru ‘Swing into Spring’ event at the Danube Seniors Leisure Centre on Wednesday June 2 from 10 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) to celebrate seniors and promote health and wellness.
The event was originally scheduled for April but due to the recent Covid lockdown, organizers decided to move the event to June which conveniently coincides with ‘Seniors Month’.
Seniors and caregivers are encouraged to attend and learn more about new programs available for seniors amidst the pandemic.
“We are so sad we couldn’t do it in April, but we want everyone to be safe and healthy,” explains Linda Ind, program coordinator and caregiver support & commununity outreach with Bradford CHATS. “It’s nice to know that everyone is looking forward to it!”
Vendors at the event will include Bradford CHATS, the Danube Centre, Holland Gardens Retirement Residence, The Elden of Bradford (Retirement Residence), Memories+ Group (Adult Program and Wellness Centre), Bradford HearingLife, BWG Library and the Town of Bradford’s Recreation department, Holland Marsh Grower’s Association, South Simcoe Police Services, Southlake Regional Health Centre, and The Prevention of Senior Abuse Network Simcoe County.
All residents who attend will have their names entered into several draws for a chance to win a ‘car prize’ (in lieu of a ‘door prize’). As well, there will be free giveaway bags.
“Normally we do these events indoors, usually inside the Danube Centre, but this year it’s outside which is safer,” notes Ind, adding that many seniors still have not received their second Covid shot yet. “There will be lots of important information for the caregivers of seniors, so bring your parents out and encourage your neighbours and local seniors to attend!”
To help keep the flow of traffic moving safely during the event, Bradford CHATS is requesting everyone sign up for a time slot by registering with Linda Ind at [email protected].
The Danube Centre and Bradford CHATS will be reversing the drive-thru format from previous events, having vehicles enter through the south end of the parking lot, and exiting out of the north side of the lot. All Covid protocols and safety measures will be in place for both vendors and residents who attend, including use of PPE and sanitizers while passing out information.
“Seniors are afraid to go outside right now,” shares Ind. “So, this encourages them to get out a little bit… it’s completely outdoors and safe – CHATS is all about keeping seniors happy and healthy!”
Ind notes that some of the vendors have been creative, using a hockey stick to pass out information to the seniors for extra distance and safety, and unless there is a medical emergency, no one will be leaving their vehicles during the drive-thru event.
Ind adds that most of the information passed out will be on the driver’s side of vehicles, and those sitting on the passenger side will be treated to live music (from a distance) compliments of the Blue Grass Band which has been booked to play for the duration of the event.
“We’re so excited!” exclaims Ind. “Just to see that smile on [the seniors] faces makes the whole event worth while.”
Bradford CHATS is still accepting more giveaway items for those businesses not physically participating at the event but still wish to advertise, so long as the donations fit the theme of the event.
For more information about the event or to register, contact Linda Ind at: [email protected]
