August 19, 2024

South County Senior Center’s Informational Fair & Cruise Night back for third year

BY Chris LarabeeThe Greenfield Recorder

WHATELY — With two successful years behind it, the South County Senior Center’s Informational Fair & Cruise Night returns to the community for its third installment.

With food, vintage vehicles and more than 16 community partners, the Senior Center is inviting folks to Herlihy Park, located on River Road, on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. The event is free and no registration is required to attend or to bring an antique vehicle for Cruise Night. A rain date is set for Aug. 28.

Entering the event’s third year, Senior Center Director Jennifer Remillard said the goal is to continue to spread the word about the numerous resources available to older adults in the region, with a particular focus on adults ages 55 and older, as well as seniors who are still working.

“We’re finding that older adults who are still in the workforce aren’t always able to access resources and aren’t always aware what’s available to them,” Remillard said. “If people can’t make it, they can always reach out for additional information about any of the community partners.”

Caregivers are also welcome to come and learn about what resources might be available for those they care for.

Community partners offering information and resources include LifePath, Valley Neighbors, the Franklin Regional Transit Authority, RSVP, the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, Community Legal Aid and the Stavros Center for Independent Living, among others. New partners this year are Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity, Greenfield Savings Bank and Sunderland’s public health nurse.

People who connect with all of the community partners will be entered into a raffle to win a door prize. There will also be prizes for Cruise Night entries, including voters’ choice, most unique, best classic car and best classic truck.

Sarah the Fiddler will be in attendance to play some tunes and Paris & Ty’s food truck will also be on hand, so attendees are encouraged to bring some money. The event is funded in part by Mass in Motion and the Franklin Regional Council of Governments.

Remillard said the event has grown in the two years it’s been held, with 150 people attending in 2023.

“It’s become a popular event,” she said. “I think seniors enjoy attending, the community shows up as well, and it’s a great way to meet and learn about resources.”

For more information, contact the South County Senior Center at 413-665-2141.

Chris Larabee can be reached at clarabee@recorder.com.