Seniors and rocking chairs go hand in hand, and that's why it's fitting, that a group whose goal it is to get seniors out and about is organizing its first 24-hour Rockathon.
Since 2014, Keeping Seniors Warm has been bringing dozens of seniors out in October to purchase warm winter clothing. But the event is more than just a shopping trip, said Bev Brisco. It's an opportunity to socialize and to make new friends.
Each participant is escorted by a volunteer, who takes the senior shopping. The event has become very popular, said Brisco. There's a waiting list of seniors wanting to join.
“We just can't accommodate them all, so we are expanding the program,” she said. “This year, we will have two Keeping Seniors Warm events, which includes a lunch and shopping.”
Seniors can become very isolated, especially during the winter months, said Brisco.
“Seniors don’t talk about not having boots or a winter coat or socks without holes,” she said. “It is a matter of pride. What goes on behind closed doors, stays behind closed doors. They just don’t talk about it.”
The group has a budget of $7,500 for the event, so doubling it means they will need twice that amount to make it successful. To date, Keeping Seniors Warm has helped over 225 seniors dress warmly during the winter months.
“We have always been very lucky to have the support of people in our community and businesses support our event,” Brisco said. “However, we knew that to expand, we now needed to plan a fundraising event to offset the coming expenses of expanding.”
Enter the 24-hour Rockathon, which takes place Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. and runs until Feb. 28 at 10 a.m.
Donations can be dropped off at the Parkside Centre on Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Laurentian University from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Feb. 28 at the Parkside Centre from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For $25, you can take your turn in the rocking chair for 15 minutes. For every $100, fundraisers will be entered in a draw for great prizes.
Find more information here.
