SCHREIBER — There's a fair coming to town – if you’re a senior living in Schreiber, that is.
The Township of Schreiber is partnering with the Schreiber Senior Centre to host a Senior Active Living Fair at the Rec Centre on March 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Organizers have teased the fact that there will be a number of exhibitors, presentations from local and regional groups, demonstrations, and prizes to be won by those in attendance.
Getting seniors connected with services in the community – services that help seniors and older adults stay active and living healthy, independent lives – is the main intention of the event but, rest assured, it sounds like there is quite a bit of fun planned for the day as well.
Programmer for the Schreiber Seniors Centre, Cathy Carlino, said they’re currently expecting 13 exhibitors – all with services or products that relate to senior living.
Carlino said there are three presenters on the docket: an OPP officer from Nipigon who will speak about elder fraud and provide tips and tricks for online safety; Ray Gionet, moderator and administrator of the Schreiber Home Towners Facebook group, who will educate seniors about how the group works, how they can post, and access other virtual resources; and a lawyer who is going to discuss estate-planning and power of attorney.
A continental breakfast and free lunch will also be provided.
Carlino said she expects many of the exhibitors to hold prize draws in addition to draws that the Seniors Centre will be holding over the course of the day.
She also noted the event was made possible thanks to funding from the government of Ontario, who have committed funding to 103 senior-focused fairs across the province including in Schreiber.
“It's going to be a full day. We’re very proud we are able to have it here in Schreiber because it is one of 103 that's right across Ontario. And so, for a little town like Schreiber to be amongst those people – many of them just in Southern Ontario . . . I’m quite proud that we're able to pull this off,” she said.
With a highly active following, Carlino spoke with excitement and gratitude about all of the programs the Schreiber Seniors Centre provides to the community.
She highlighted that the committee she works with – a committee working directly with town council – provides invaluable support.
“I have a really solid committee. They’re an advisory committee but also very hands-on . . . a cohesive group . . . it’s a huge success story for the Schreiber Seniors Centre,” she said.
To register for the fair, residents have been asked to contact the Senior Centre at 807-824-2711 extension 229 or email senior@schreiber.ca.
Carlino said around 100 participants have registered so far.
Admission for the fair is free.
“We’re very much welcoming anyone who wants to join us,” Carlino said.
