SENIOR CENTER: Please consider providing support

Are we the forgotten generation — the senior citizens of Hayden and surrounding area? Trying to get sponsors or raise funds for the Hayden Senior Center has been an almost futile effort. But a BIG thank you to those that have stepped up and given! These senior folks are your Mama’s and Papa’s, (not the musical group) Grandmas and Grandpas.

For many this center is their home away from home, where they meet their friends, exercise to stay healthy, so they’re not a burden on society or their children, play games and get a healthy lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is the generation that helped build the community, supported their kids in various activities, gave back to the community in many ways as business owners, employees and volunteers as well as many veterans. Many are in their 70s and 80s so it is difficult to do the fundraisers that the younger folks do.

As for the Hayden Senior Center the time for fundraisers is limited as we don’t have the facility 24/7, just five days, no evenings, per week and about six Saturdays per year. Don’t get us wrong, we are grateful to the city of Hayden for their support and Shiners for the use of their beautiful facility. However, it’s not free nor are many of our other expenses, wages, insurance, expenses like any other business. Granted, we also understand the need for supporting the children, veterans, the ill and various animal groups, but the Senior Center needs support also. So many nonprofits now are after the same dollars and inflation has had a big impact on everyone, particularly families and seniors.

Many businesses are feeling the impact of the economy also. Some businesses are only going to support those that are using their products or facilities. (Which seniors still support many of these businesses. We need to eat, dress, and pay many of the same expenses as the younger folk do.) A senior center can’t afford the TV advertising “just $19 a month it will take care of, support or, any other entity looking for funds,” but if those that can afford to support us any amount would be appreciated. Again, it feels as if we are the forgotten generation but appreciate those that have not forgotten us.

KATHY VERBURG

Hayden Senior Center Board Chair