Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 01, 2021 (SKNIS): Rewarding and celebrating older persons are important as it gives them a sense of belonging, eases feelings of isolation which can often lead to depression and reinforces the need for future generations to include older persons in their celebrations. As such, the Department of Community Development and Social Services takes time out to appreciate and recognize older persons in St. Kitts and Nevis.
“So, we have the seniors aged 62-89 and we give them a nice birthday card, well wishes and then the super seniors that are from 90-99 we give them a nice gift basket; we go along with other officers and the minister to talk, sing and we have a good time with them,” said Dahlia Scarborough, Case Manager within the Department of Social Services and Chair of Seniors Enrichment Programme Committee, on the March 31 edition of ‘Working for You’.
Centenarians are also rewarded and recognized for longevity and their contributions to nation-building. This year, the department decided to continue with the celebrations.
“This year, we are preparing to give them a nice medal of honour along with media coverage and a short documentary. So yes, we are honouring them every year, recognizing them each milestone,” said Ms. Scarborough.
Osslyn Ward-Harris, Director of Community Development and Social Services and Member of Seniors Enrichment Programme Committee, said all this is made possible through many sponsors. These include Nubian Greaux; the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis; the St. Kitts -Nevis and Anguilla National Bank; The Cable; TDC, SL Horsfords; Best Buy; OD Brisbane and Sons; Unique Fashion; Spotlight Inc.; Sports Zone; Food Centre; Sun Island Clothing; Island Purified Water; Chef Samuel Chumney; Fraites and Sons; AudVidz Solutions; and Pro Video Productions.
“Last year and even during COVID-19 some of them were so very gracious to us…” Mrs. Ward-Harris added.
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