By: Fred Groves, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Staying active while aging — that was the theme at the Tilbury Arena as Family Service Kent presented its annual Senior Fair.
Nearly 60 vendors brought their information to the event, and an estimated 300 visitors came to learn about the many ways to have fun, stay safe, and access services available in their community.
Chrissy Donais, General Manager of the Tilbury Leisure Centre on Canal Street, attended with Heather Wilson to highlight the centre’s long‑running programs for older adults.
“It’s so people can get out, be active and socialize,” said Donais.
The Tilbury Leisure Centre offers a range of activities including shuffleboard, exercise classes, and Friday lunches.
The free event at the arena also included lunch, served by St. Andrew’s Residence of Chatham, which operates the Meals on Wheels program.
Family Service Kent has been providing services that support, empower, and advocate for individuals and families since 1969. According to Well‑Being Coordinator Marjorie Crew, the Senior Fair has been running for 17 years.
“We want to get information out to that particular demographic,” said Crew.
Last year’s event drew 340 visitors. This year, attendees came from across the region, including Belle River’s Margie Hopkins, who stopped by to speak with Tammy Martineau, a Program Coordinator with the Canadian Red Cross.
The Red Cross showcased its “Let’s Go Home with Homeward Bound” program, designed to help individuals transition back home after a hospital stay.
“We want seniors to know what is available to them. For people in Tilbury, it lets them know what is available in Chatham‑Kent,” said Marie Bergsma, Manager of Support Services at Family Service Kent.
Also set up at the fair were Chatham‑Kent Police Services, Fire and Rescue, and several local groups including the Tilbury and District Historical Society.
“We send out invitations to our community partners. We try not to have too much duplication. We only have space for 60 vendors,” noted Bergsma.
For more information about Family Service Kent, call 519‑354‑6221.