Bingo brings older adults together
Three days a week, happy shouts of “BINGO” can be heard in The Fulton Heights Corps Community Center, where its senior program meets. Bingo is one the many diverse offerings that empower older adults to learn, laugh, and thrive while making new friends and developing existing friendships. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays the program offers activities, plus a nutritious lunch, for a suggested donation of $3.
Activities have included Bible study, senior-specific exercise classes, karaoke, Spanish lessons, games, arts and crafts, book clubs, live music performances and movie clubs. Seniors can also choose independent activities like Wii bowling, cards, word puzzles and board games. Each activity gives seniors the opportunity to receive a ticket that is redeemable for food pantry items of their choice.
The Senior Program at Fulton Heights Salvation Army is the largest program in Kent County, according to the Area Agency for Aging in West Michigan. Most participants find their way to the program via word of mouth. The program is now on its 18th year of helping seniors make friends, develop relationships and foster holistic healthy habits.
The Kent County Needs Assessment (2020) for older adults found that over 25% of respondents in Kent County struggle with feelings of isolation. Our program works to combat these needs, providing a safe environment for older adults to gather together for a nutritious community meal and opportunities for them to engage with one another, finding peer supports that increase their wellbeing.
In addition, the senior program offers short trips several times a year, including recent trips to Shipshewana and a fall color tour to view the natural beauty of the changing seasons in Michigan. Seniors are also invited to participate in intergenerational opportunities at the Fulton Heights Corps Community Center, including the first commissioned Salvation Army Brass Band; Friday @ the SAL, a monthly themed dinner; and the choir. These opportunities allow older adults to engage with the wider community and are open to caregivers and other family members. We hope to see you there soon!
The Senior Program meets on Tuesdays ( 10 AM- 4:30 PM), Wednesdays, and Fridays (9 AM- 2 PM). Click here for more information!