Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Carvin Malone has applauded the strength and contributions of seniors in rebuilding the Territory following the 2017 disasters.

Minister Malone in remarks at the Sea Cow’s Bay Methodist Church service to officially commence Seniors’ Month activities said amid the many trials and tribulations, the loss of homes, livelihoods and of loved ones, the Territory’s seniors stand tall on their faith and they inspire everyone to persevere.

“This illustrates the pivotal role seniors play as the background to our families and our communities, hence the significance of annual celebrations as we reaffirm our commitment to each of you,” he said

Honourable Malone added, “We honour and show gratitude to our seniors by treating them with dignity and respect, looking out for their interest and protecting their rights, supporting their participation in community life, and encouraging them to be healthy and active.”

He also encouraged the seniors to embrace the theme for Seniors’ Month and connect with each other and that Government will continue to create opportunities for them to share their knowledge and talents with the younger generation.

“We will make use your wisdom whenever the opportunity presents itself to provide a moral compass and strengthen the fabric of our society as we shape the future together,” Honourable Malone added.

Premier, Honorable Andrew Fahie, the staff of the Social Development Department and seniors from various senior programmes throughout the Virgin Islands also made remarks at the launch on May 1.

Seniors’ Month is an annual observance that is celebrated in May and is spearheaded by the Social Development Department. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Seniors’ Month celebrations and is being observed under the theme “Connect, Create, Contribute”.  Additionally, the month is designed to observe the vitality, aspirations, contributions and achievements of older adults.

Residents are invited to participate in the upcoming activities. They include:

• The East End/Long Look Senior Programme Open House at the East End/Long Look Community Centre on May 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Mr. And Ms. Senior BVI Pageant on May 12 at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College at 5:00 p.m.
• Carrot Bay Seniors’ Programme Open House at the Seventh-day Youth Centre on May 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• The Not So Newlywed Game on May 19 at the Eileen L. Parsons Auditorium at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College at 5:00 p.m.
• Sea Cow’s Bay Seniors’ Programme Open House on May 21 at the Ralph Perri-Gore Centre for Mission and Ministry located at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly Open House on May 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• A Seniors’ Ball on May 29 at the Marina Inn at 6:00 p.m.;

The month of activities will end with the hosting of a Food and Cultural Fair on May 31 at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park at 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

For more information on Seniors’ Month Activities Schedule, persons can telephone 468-3650 or visit www.bvi.gov.vg.

Note:
Photo Caption 1 of 1: Ministry of Health and Social Development and Social Development Staff fellowshipping during the Opening Ceremony of Seniors’ Month on May 1. (Photo Credit: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)