This article is from page 38 of the 2008-09-02 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 38 JPG
MAYOR of Shannon Gerry Flynn (Ind) last evening launched the cam- paign by Shannon Senior Citizens Club to raise much-needed funds with the help of brother and sister team Seamus and Suzanne Tyler.
The Tylers will take part in the Dublin City Marathon on October 27, in aid of the local organisation that provides support and entertain- ment to the people of Shannon.
For those that would like to learn more about the organisation, can at- tend an open day on Friday next at the organisation’s centre in Purcell
ae
As well as a raffle and bring and buy sale, refreshments will also be served.
The Shannon Senior Citizen’s Club was the brain child of a number of local people in 1980, when Shan- non had a mostly young population travelling to the town from around the county for much needed employ- ment.
As a result of the demographics of the population, the senior citizens who were in the minority often felt isolated and so the club was formed.
Now as the population ages, the need for the club has become even
more apparent.
Initially the plans for the club were to provide a congenial meeting place where senior citizens could meet old friends and make new ones.
The club has expanded significantly from this initial ambition as it cur- rently provides more than 60 three- course meals twice a week.
These meals on wheels are deliv- ered by unsung but essential volun- teers.
Important events in members’ lives are not forgotten with birthday cakes provided on special days, members with disabilities are provided with a taxi service door to door, and holi-
days to the seaside are provided eve- ry year with the assistance of Clare- Care.
Weekend breaks are catered for, and visits to other clubs in Clare and Limerick are the norm.
Members of the busy club avail of Services at the local leisure club, take part in gentle exercises, and visit the chiropodist every Wednesday.
The club continues to function thanks to sponsorship, donations and the work of volunteers.
In the coming months the people of Shannon will be asked to assist he club by sponsoring the two athletes taking part in the marathon.