Senior Day Program Celebrates 20 Years of Service in Hamilton
For the past two decades, The Salvation Army in Hamilton, Ont., has provided a safe and supportive space for seniors in the community to stay active and socially connected. This year, the senior day program marked its 20-year milestone, which was celebrated and recognized by the local government.
The initiative operates out of two Salvation Army locations: an integrated program in Stoney Creek’s Winterberry Heights Church, serving 28 participants and another in Ancaster at the Meadowlands Church, serving 15 seniors. The latter group offers specialized care for those living with dementia.
“Our seniors are here for different reasons. Some of our clients are doing well and feel like they need the social connection, whereas others have higher needs due to medical reasons. But what’s unique and amazing is that they all support each other and, of course, they have the support of our staff,” Devon Delaney, executive director of the program, explains.
Activities and Engagement
The program offers a wide range of activities designed to engage participants physically, socially and therapeutically. These include exercise, carpet bowling, ladder ball, table games, social groups and other therapeutic programming tailored to the clients’ needs. Seniors also enjoy community outings, like trips to the Royal Botanical Gardens and afternoons of local entertainment.
“Our program supports seniors who wish to maintain their independence and stay in their home for as long as possible, providing an excellent and more affordable option for care,” Devon adds.
For the group at Meadowlands, the service not only assists participants but also gives families some reassurance and a chance to rest.
“One of the benefits of our program for seniors living with memory challenges is that we provide respite care, so families can take a break knowing that their loved ones are safe, happy and taken care of,” Devon says.
For participants, the environment at The Salvation Army feels welcoming and familiar.
“I feel like this is family,” Carol, a client of the program, shares. “I feel good coming here; this is my happy place.”
Funding and Support
Over the years, demand for this initiative has grown, making funding and additional community support increasingly important. Those interested in getting involved are always welcome.
“We love volunteers. They are the heart of the program. Anything they can give to contribute helps immensely,” Devon says.
Increased funding from government and city sources, along with community donations, not only helps ensure that services continue to run smoothly but also supports innovations such as the potential for overnight respite care.
Additional funding enables the program to expand services, better address medical needs, improve care through increased staffing and lower client fees to maintain affordability.
Devon has been involved in this project since its creation. Seeing this initiative grow over time is something she considers a privilege.
“I started as a volunteer when the doors opened and I grew with the program. I watched it develop and it makes me happy to think about all the people we’ve walked alongside through various journeys. At the end of the day, every senior has a story to tell and here they have a safe place to tell it,” she shares.
To celebrate this milestone, The Salvation Army organized a fundraiser that included lunch, entertainment and a silent auction. The event brought together participants, their families, volunteers, community partners, Mayor Andrea Horwath and MP Ned Kuruc.
At the event, the mayor and MP presented the senior day program with a Certificate of Recognition commemorating 20 years of service, acknowledging its positive impact on the community.
By Juan Romero
