Age Concern Horowhenua secures $5000 for new senior citizens programme

Some of the team from Age Concern Horowhenua, from left: Christy Mueller, Natalie Cooper, Lyn Marley, Cecily Wilton and Elise Walker. Absent: Jo Blanche, Janetta Scoble and Lynda Watt. Photo / Alyssa Smith

Age Concern Horowhenua has received $5000 for its Baskets of Wisdom programme through the Office for Seniors’ age-friendly fund, used to support projects and communities promoting the inclusion and contribution of older people.

Supported by staff and volunteers, Baskets of Wisdom will be led by kaumātua keen to share their ideas and skills.

The programme will identify people and provide them with the support and skills to share what they know with others through workshops and activities.

The programme will also boost intergenerational contact by visiting schools and telling stories.

Age Concern Horowhenua manager Natalie Cooper said she and the team were pleased to receive the grant.

“We are looking forward to learning together and sharing the stories about the lives of people we love and cherish. We know that our treasured kaumātua have a wealth of wisdom, knowledge and skills that often go unseen. In our fast-paced daily lives, the opportunity to share and learn together is often missed.”

Office for Seniors age friendly programme lead Karen Piercy hoped the project would result in older people feeling valued in sharing their skills, knowledge and stories.

“I hope this programme not only gives them the confidence to share and pass on knowledge but also a chance to build intergenerational connections,” she said.