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Date: 9/13/2022
HARDWICK – After merging about five years ago, the Hardwick/Barre Senior Center now has more offerings and people to serve.
Contributing to a variety of programs and resources, Eileen Clarkson, director of the Senior Center, shared a glimpse of what people can expect when visiting.
From providing educational centers and resources to assistance with insurance, the facility has it all. Every day, the Hardwick/Barre Senior Center administers meals through a service out of Worcester.
Oftentimes, Clarkson said they host “special events” which included a barbecue meal in August and a ham dinner scheduled for this month.
She went on to say that the center frequently provides a selection of entertainment and activities. Recently, they had a “50s glow party,” which Clarkson said was well attended.
She noted that seniors can express their creative side through craft making. For instance, a recent project was decorating a pizza pan. Soon, they will be making bird baths, which will be constructed with cement. On Oct. 1, they will be hosting a craft fair.
This past spring, Clarkson shared that they also hosted a health fair. Once a month, a foot podiatrist comes in to meet with individuals.
While it is called a “senior center,” Clarkson said they service multiple ages. “[We will] help anyone that needs it,” she explained. “A lot of people call looking for resources for loved ones.”
Since merging Hardwick with Barre, Clarkson said, “It has been working very well.”
Although every day is different, she estimated that they serve about 50 people each day. This includes residents of surrounding towns such as Oakham, Ware and others. Clarkson shared that the merger stemmed from the closing of Hardwick’s initial center, as the building needed some work.
With much to offer the community, Clarkson said people can find information about their offerings in a multitude of ways. This includes Facebook, the town’s website, a monthly newsletter, along with several hard copies floating throughout the community.
“We want people to come in and check us out and feel welcome,” said Clarkson. “We want to serve as a resource to people, [allow them to] make new friends and enjoy their time here.”
The Hardwick/Barre Senior Center is located at 40 West St. in Barre. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Additional information can be found on their website at https://www.townofbarre.com/coa.