Community Helps Build Raised Garden Boxes for Seniors

Many people find that gardening helps them relax and improves overall health. This can be a fun and safe activity for seniors to do while the weather is favourable, especially with the right tools. Many people find that gardening helps them relax and improves overall health. This can be a fun and safe activity for seniors to do while the weather is favourable, especially with the right tools.

The North Glengarry community came together this past spring to help bring a new program to life for local seniors at the Rendez-Vous Support Centre in Alexandria. With lumber donated by Alexandria Moulding, the talented skills of the wood working class from Maxime Rozon and Le Relais High Schools built beautiful flower boxes so seniors could enjoy the benefits of gardening at the centre.

Celine, the Program Coordinator at the centre explained, “Most seniors have the experience and knowledge of how to garden. These raised gardening boxes make it easier for seniors to continue to do what they love in a safe and comfortable manner. I’ve already learned so much from our clients about gardening since the boxes have been installed and seeing them share their joy with each other is so rewarding. Our new gardening program is truly therapeutic.” .

Mrs. Charbonneau has been a client at the Rendez-Vous Support Centre for the past four years and is very active in most social programs including exercise classes, painting classes, congregate diners, bingo and special events. Now, Mrs. Charbonneau is an active member of the new gardening club as gardening at home is limited. She shared, “Since I live in a condo, I don’t have room to have a garden. This group gives me the opportunity to use my knowledge and expertise. I have met new people, and learned from them as well. We all work together to bring beauty to our gardens and our centre.”

Like all Carefor Support Centres, the Rendez-Vous is essential in creating a space where seniors can feel engaged, safe, and form new friendships. Mrs. Charbonneau believes, “Socialization plays a big role in my life, and it keeps me active. These programs give me the chance to learn new skills, and live new experiences with new friends I wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Carefor is grateful for the communities who embrace our centres, but also the seniors who bring them to life.  

All Carefor Support Centres offer programs and services that help enrich the lives of seniors living in rural communities. Contact your local Carefor Support Centre in Alexandria, Lancaster, Finch, Ingleside, or Winchester to learn more.