| |
Contact:
Julita Peter
Wednesday, February 2, 2005 - It was a day of celebration for the
Adelaide and Frances Memorial Home for the Elderly on Sunday, as the institution
observed its 20th anniversary with a thanksgiving mass at the Minor Basilica of
the Immaculate Conception, followed by a parade on the Derek Walcott Square.
Sunday’s celebration brought together government officials, the elderly and two
visiting contingents from Martinique and Dominica.
Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Kenny Anthony, who addressed the gathering in Kweyol
commended Chairman of the Home, Mr. Augustus Justin for his contribution to the
island’s senior citizens. Dr. Anthony said that institutions like the Adelaide
and Frances Memorial were providing much need support to government in meeting
the needs of the elderly. He however lamented that still too many of the
island’s aged are abandoned by their relatives.
Speaking in Creole Dr. Anthony said, “Nou ni pou fe sa nou pe’ pou fe’
jennenwasyon an ki ka vini an’ konpwann yo passe’ abandonnen’ gwan moun yo. Yo
passe’ abandonnen fanmi yo, nou ni pou witounen’ pou kilti nou te’ konnet avan,”
The Prime Minister announced that government would be increasing its yearly
subvention to the Adelaide and Frances Memorial Home from $60,000 to $100,000.
The plight of the elderly abandoned by relatives was also a concern for Dr
Vaughn Lewis, who was invited to speak at Sunday’s ceremony. According to Dr.
Lewis, older folk are usually left alone unattended either because of extensive
migration or employment. He added that there was need for institutions at all
levels, which can provide solace and comfort to people who feel displaced and
alone.
The Adelaide and Frances Memorial for the Elderly is observing its 20th
anniversary under the theme “God is Real”
|
