Honoring the Baldwin Senior Center As They Celebrate Their 25th Anniversary
HONORING THE BALDWIN SENIOR CENTER AS THEY CELEBRATE THEIR 25TH ANNIVERSARY -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 04, 2004)
Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to the Baldwin Senior Center Stratford, Connecticut, as they celebrate their 25th Anniversary. This is a remarkable milestone for an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of Stratford's seniors.
Senior centers play a vital role in our communities and this is especially true of the Baldwin Senior Center. All too often, what are supposed to one's "golden years" are filled with struggles. Health concerns, increasing health care costs, the loss of independence-these are just some of the challenges our seniors face. Perhaps even more devastating is the sense of loneliness that can come as one moves through their later years. Providing invaluable programs and services, senior centers make a real difference in the lives of some of our most vulnerable citizens. That is why they are so important to our seniors and our communities.
In addition to regular daily activities-which include bingo, book discussions, yoga, quilting classes, and oil painting-the Baldwin Senior Center offers unique opportunities for seniors to get involved with their community. Their knitting/crocheting group made over two dozen hats, scarves, and mittens which were donated to Stratford's South End Community Center. Over 120 seniors and students from Bunnell High School participated in a "Senior Prom" as a fundraiser for the Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society's annual funding drive. The Community Service group organized a project during the summer which had seniors reading books to youngsters from the town's minority center. And seniors sponsored a cupcake bake sale, using the proceeds to buy books which they brought to the South End Community Center. All of these activities ensure that the seniors stay active and involved which makes all the difference-both in their lives and those of many others.
Just as important as the activities are the services which are provided at the Center. Executive Director Diane Puterski is joined by several dedicated staff who work hard to ensure Stratford's seniors have access to the care and benefits they need. Outreach Coordinator Marie Gunman provides services to homebound adults and those who choose not to use the Center by making home visits to people needing information or who are referred to the Center by other agencies as being in need. Lisa Stone manages the program which provides help with entitlements and benefits including Medicare, energy assistance, Medigap insurances, ConnPACE, and Title XIX among others. Diane Russo coordinates the Family Caregivers Support Program which is funded by the Southwest Area Agency on Aging. Through this program, she provides support, information, and education to persons caring for older adults with chronic illnesses, such as Alzheimer's Disease. Together, the staff of the Baldwin Senior Center are improving the quality of life for our seniors. An unequaled resource for seniors and their families, the Baldwin Senior Center is a true community treasure.
Always welcomed with open arms and warm smiles, I have enjoyed the time I have had the opportunity to spend at the Baldwin Senior Center. As they celebrate their Silver Anniversary, I am proud to stand today and extend my sincere congratulations on this special occasion as well as my very best wishes for many more years of unparalleled service to their community.