Press Release
Senior citizens were celebrated with a day of fellowship, appreciation and practical support as the Department of Gender and Family Affairs observed Elders Day as part of this year’s National Family Week celebrations.
Leading the outreach was Ms. Sharmie Farrington, Director of the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, accompanied by Ms. Eartha Charlow, who oversees the Senior Citizens Unit and Disability Affairs within the Ministry of Social Services; Rev. Roslyn Astwood of the Bahamas Christian Council, whose ministry focuses on family affairs; Ms. Cecile Cash, Administrative Assistant, Department of Gender and Family Affairs, and other ministry officials.
The day’s activities began with a visit to the Persis Rodgers Home for the Aged, where the delegation was welcomed by Ms. Lavern Stewart, Administrator of the home.
Ms. Farrington said it was important that National Family Week include the nation’s senior citizens, noting that they are the foundation upon which many Bahamian families have been built. She said their wisdom, resilience and lifelong contributions continue to strengthen families and communities, making it essential that they are recognized, appreciated and cared for.
Ms. Stewart thanked the ministry for remembering the residents of the home and expressed gratitude for the donations of bottled water, cleaning supplies and toiletries, noting that the items would help meet the home’s everyday needs while reminding residents that they are valued and not forgotten.
Following the visit, the delegation continued its outreach by visiting senior citizens living in rental units under the purview of the Ministry of Social Services throughout New Providence. Care packages were presented to residents, extending the spirit of National Family Week beyond the institution and into the wider community.
The Elders Day initiative reflects the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening families by ensuring that every generation—from the youngest child to the oldest grandparent – is recognized, supported and celebrated during National Family Week.
The post National Family Week Reaches Seniors with Care, Compassion and Outreach appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.
