The Seniors Centre Without Wall program, commencing May 5, 2020, and continuing throughout the month on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, is the latest step by the Town of Pelham to adjust its senior programming during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Each week, Pelham seniors have the opportunity to engage with various speakers, participate in activities, and enjoy conversational opportunities. This program provides an outlet to socialize with others in the community. The only equipment necessary is a phone.

“This is a great opportunity for the age group deemed most vulnerable to COVID-19 to stay connected, they just have to call,” said director of recreation, culture, and wellness, Vickie vanRavenswaay. “Isolation is hard on everyone, and with limited opportunities to get out, this program will be a welcome addition to the daily routines of some of our seniors.”

Topics included during the weekly call-in sessions include mindfulness, mind and memory power, as well as discussion group chats and the opportunity to share good news and fun facts.

To participate, residents are to call in on the day and time of their chosen program to 1-866-279-1594 and enter passcode 704576 followed by the pound sign. There is no cost for the programs, however, participants are asked to pre-register with Julie Cook, recreation, culture, and wellness programmer at jcook@pelham.ca or 905-892-2607 x329.

Town staff are available to assist residents who are unable to call in themselves but can receive calls.

Funded by the Older Adults Centres’ Association of Ontario (OACAO), the program will be offered for several months and is afforded to Pelham by the fact the Meridian Community Centre is a designated Seniors Centre.