Kids’ involvement in bazaar worthwhile: LEC
Money raised goes toward purchase of decorations
Monday, December 6, 2004 - OMNIway staff
Involving children from the bowling league she coaches in Maplewood’s annual bazaar was a success story, says Heather Flindall.

The life enrichment co-ordinator at the Brighton long-term care decided to add an intergenerational programming component to the home’s Christmas tea and sale. Heather made arrangements with the local bowling centre where she volunteers to include the children in a fundraising effort. At the Nov. 28 event, the bowling league had its own table to raise funds for the league through a silent auction, while also paying admission to the bazaar.

The young people, ranging in age from five to 19, helped decorate the home and assisted with the serving of tea and coffee.

“The residents thoroughly enjoyed the interaction with the children,” says Heather.

“This program worked out so (well) that we will be doing this again next year.”

The tea and bazaar, attended by residents’ family members and community members, raised about $1,100. The money will likely go towards the purchase of new decorations for the home, Heather says.

Maplewood resident Clemence Gadsden, left, and mom, Janet, share a moment together at the Brighton long-term care home's Christmas tea and bazaar.