Friday nights have become a date night event at the Davidson Memorial Centre since Morris Area Senior Services (MASS) hired a new full-time cook.
According to MASS coordinator Patricia L. Eidse, the aim is to create a space for socializing for the 55+ set in the area.
MASS is a non-profit organization that offers an array of supportive services to seniors, enabling them to enjoy independence for as long as possible.
Most services are fee based. They include things like clothing repair, foot care, and house cleaning, among other offerings.
The Davidson Centre Board allows MASS to use the recreation room and the kitchen and dining room for congregate meals at no charge.
Irene Chartier was brought on staff as the program’s chef in November. Chartier comes to the role with over 30 years experience; some may recall her culinary skills behind the deli counter at Morris Bigway.
“I love it here,” she says of her new position. “The kitchen is great and I enjoy the people who come to eat.”
The congregate meal program offers a homemade, full-course meal in a friendly, family-style setting Mondays to Fridays.
The aim is to gather seniors for meals, conversation, entertainment, and camaraderie.
Town of Morris Councillor Mel Baxter, who is also a MASS board member, mentioned the meal program in his report to council recently.
“There is an increase in numbers on Friday night,” he noted. “The new cook is making a difference. Word of mouth of the meals is contributing to the success.”
In addition to the sit-down meal, the program also continues to offer meal delivery to seniors unable to make it to the centre in person. This service began during the pandemic.
“We have continued the delivery service to housebound seniors,” says Eidse. Three volunteers and their spouses run the pickup and delivery service.
Meal pickup and delivery starts at 4:30 p.m., while the dining room begins receiving guests at 4:45 p.m. each weekday.
“We have a TV supplied service from Valley Fibre set up in the common room,” Eidse shares. “Some folks like to watch the hockey game or curling. People are coming for dinner and staying after to play cards or watch television. There is a pool table and shuffle board available. We are encouraging people to stay.”
Before the pandemic, there were 54 volunteers involved with MASS. That has dwindled to six as people moved or passed away.
Meals can be ordered by seniors 55+ by calling 204-712-5280.
A menu for the month is available at the post office, Access Credit Union, in the entrance to the Davidson Centre, or the Morris Area Senior Services’ Facebook page.
