Welland City Council and city staff are wishing Niagara’s older adults a safe and healthy Seniors’ Month. This year’s theme is Stay Safe, Stay in Touch. Seniors are encouraged to explore new virtual ways of staying connected to their families, friends, and communities. Now, more than ever, Niagara’s seniors need to be celebrated and encouraged to stay emotionally connected while practicing physical distancing.

Seniors’ Month is a time to celebrate Niagara’s older generation and pay tribute to the benefits they bring to others, in addition to the outstanding contributions they make to enrich communities. Welland’s older residents are active committee members, vibrant volunteers, and leaders who offer wisdom and experience for better community development.

The Welland Seniors Citizens Advisory Committee (SCAC) launched Seniors’ Month by raising Age-Friendly flags on June 1, 2020, at Welland Civic Square and the Welland Community Wellness Complex. The Age-Friendly flag will be raised in communities throughout Niagara to recognize Seniors’ Month, World Seniors’ Day on October 1, 2020, and other age-friendly community events.

“The goal of SCAC is to make Welland a truly age-friendly city where everyone is welcome,” said Carol Sernasie, Chair of the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee. “The committee accomplishes this task by working with Welland Council, advocating for the needs of seniors, and promoting principles of respect and support for all senior citizens.”

“Welland’s older adult community continues to provide us with wisdom and leadership,” said Richard Dalton, Manager of Recreation and Culture. “We’ll be looking towards our seniors for direction this year while creating an environment that’s safe and comfortable for our members.”

The City of Welland is proud of the many seniors who make Niagara a better place to live. Seniors’ Month should inspire everyone to discover safe and innovative ways to celebrate the positive impact that older adults have on our lives. For more information on City of Welland’s initiatives, visit welland.ca. For more information on age-friendly initiatives, visit agefriendlyniagara.com.