Residents donate money and time to Kentwood Park
Couple invest in the well-being of residents, show appreciation for quality care
Tuesday July 29, 2008 -- Camille Jensen
A married couple living at Kentwood Park have been donating their time and money to benefit other residents living at the Picton long-term care home.

Verla and Norman Whattam, who have been married for more than 60 years, say they enjoy being able to contribute to the well-being of their fellow residents.

“We are interested in everybody’s good will and like to see everybody be as pleasant as they can and enjoy a bit of things,” says Norman.

To help make a difference for other residents, the couple chip in whenever they can, most recently buying a new record player for the residents' lounge.

If either of the two wins the 50 - 50 draw, which Verla volunteers to sell tickets for, they donate their share to the residents’ council.

Verla, who won the 50 - 50 draw last week, says the council almost has enough to buy their next big purchase — a new bingo machine.

The couple also donate money to buy prizes for a bingo event that brings people living at Pathways for Independence to the Picton long-term care home.

The couple, who feel fortunate to have each other in the home, say giving back to others is an important part of living as a community.

“It takes more than four walls to make a home when you are living alone,” says Norman.

Contributing to the home is also a way for the pair to show their appreciation to the staff at the home, which they say do an excellent job.

“They always have a smile and a laugh and they are always very pleasant,” says Norman.

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