Basseterre, St. Kitts (October 1, 2004): The official celebration of the Month of the Elderly starts today with an address by Minister of Social Development, Community and Gender Affairs Hon. Rupert Herbert on ZIZ television at 8p.m.

Later today a church service will be held at the Co-Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

Also on the schedule of activities are visits to the elderly in the community by parliamentary representatives, special editions of radio programmes Healthwise and the social security programme, a visit to Nevis, an exhibition, concert and the annual picnic.

Coordinator Mrs Anne Wigley said the Month of the Elderly is anticipated by senior citizens in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis due to the high level of preparation and importance given to it by her ministry. She said that the event is the annual highpoint of a programme for the elderly which goes throughout the year.

The social development programme ensures that the elderly in the society, who are without the appropriate family and financial support, are able to live in a degree of comfort during the golden years of their lives.

Mrs Wigley called on the general public to take the opportunity to remember senior citizens in their society by paying visits, giving gifts, running errands and organizing activities where elderly can be guests of honour.