Parish has junction where seniors gather

As the senior citizens program at St. Margaret of Cortona parish in Rotterdam Junction celebrates its 25th anniversary, its facilitator looks toward a strong future.

Betsy Ricker, the project coordinator who has worked with seniors citizens for 14 years, said that the need for services is strong, especially among 80- and 90-year-olds.

Each Tuesday and Thursday, the center opens its doors to provide some of those services, including meals, information and recreation.

Filling a need

The center, located in St. Margaret's church hall, opens at 9 a.m. for coffee and fresh muffins, baked by Peggy Hohenstein. She has dedicated 20 years to helping the elderly have both a good day and a good meal.

At 10 a.m., some women gather to play the card game called "Garbage"; later, others play indoor bocce ball in the center's basement.

"Most of the people that take advantage of our services are in their 80s and 90s," Mrs. Ricker observed. "We usually provide a hot meal that has been prepared on site by Peggy and occasional volunteers. Without this program, they might not be getting a hot meal twice a week."

A nutritionist approves the meals to ensure that the seniors get the proper nourishment. Those over 60 pay $3 per meal, if they can afford it. Those under 60 are charged $5, but Mrs. Ricker emphasized that no one would be denied a meal.

Out and about

On Tuesday afternoons, seniors can get their blood pressure checked and enjoy a bus trip to the local grocery store.

Mrs. Ricker said that Rotterdam contracts with Catholic Charities' transportation program to provide bus service. The bus also takes the seniors to the meal center from their homes.

According to the coordinator, it's an important service that many local seniors rely on since they cannot drive.

Improving the mind

On Thursday afternoons, the seniors gather to hear a speaker talk on an issue that relates to their lifestyle, such as hospice care, safety in the home, medical issues and good nutrition.

In addition, the center occasionally provides informational videos and has sponsored a safe-driving course. Later this year, a flu/pneumonia clinic will be offered.

(St. Margaret of Cortona parish is a member of Junction Ecumenical Ministries, which includes the United Methodist Church of Rotterdam Junction, the Woestina Reformed Church of Rotterdam Junction and Christ Church of the Hills Presbyterian in rural Rotterdam. They provide funds for the senior center. For information, call 887-5288.)

(6/29/06) [[In-content Ad]]