Federal Government shows appreciation for elderly citizens
By VonDez Phipps
Reporter-SKNVibes.com
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| Minister of Community and Social development Hon. Rupert Herbert gives gift basket to Ann Penny, 94, oldest resident of the Newtown area |
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – TEN of the most elderly citizens in the Basseterre area yesterday (Oct. 7) received gift baskets from the Ministry of Community and Social Development during a project launched in recognition of Elderly Month.
The many elated elderly citizens openly expressed their appreciation for being “remembered by the younger bunch” for the contributions they have made to the community. A number of the recipients laughed, cried and or shared mixed emotions as they were surprised by the generous gesture of the government.
Minister of Community and Social Development Hon. Rupert Herbert, in speaking to SKNVibes, said the gesture is part of an overall strategy in an effort to improve social development on island. He added that interaction with the elderly should create a feeling of respect for the pioneers and informed that it is a part of the general thrust in changing the attitudes of youth.
“It is really to continue to recognise the older people in acknowledging the contributions they have made in the development of this country. They may have worked in different capacities like in the sugar industry and have laboured for people today to live comfortable lives. And so, we must remember their contributions; we have to try to bring back a spark of excitement and hope into their lives.” ~~Adz:Right~~
Supervisor of Social Assistance Ann Wigley said recognising Elderly Month is a “significant milestone” for the country as it serves to set the framework for social development. She explained that “the launch of Elderly Month started in 1994 in Beijing and since then our government signed on in 1998, and we have been recognising our senior citizens since.”
“Fifteen home-care officers are responsible for looking after the 270 seniors on the programme. You see, before, our seniors were just set aside, but now, this project changed that because the elderly feel better and enjoy life more.
“I congratulate and encourage already existing homes to keep up the work. However, I think a more affordable home should be established for seniors to equally enjoy their lives,” Wigley informed.
