×

Center focuses on Johnston seniors

JOHNSTON — For the past 10 years, the Johnston Senior Center has provided a place for many northern Trumbull County seniors to socialize and take part in various activities.

The center, located at 5922 Warren Road, marked the 10-year anniversary this week with an open house and lunch.

Tricia Litwiler, who has been the center director since it opened, said when it first opened in 2009, it was open three days per week but it has been expanded to five hours per day for five days each week.

Each week, there are exercise classes, games, crafts, bingo, informational and educational events, and special programs with speakers.

Litwiler said the center works with the Trumbull County Office of Elderly Affairs, which provides meals for seniors five days per week at the center.

“When we first started, we did not offer that and today we are able to offer a balanced meal to seniors five days a week. We have some local residents who come here since we first opened. The center gets people out and keeps them active,” she said.

Litwiler said plans are to expand with more exercise classes and guest speakers. A program on the local fire department and its history is being planned for Sept. 24. A program on Camp James A. Garfield was held this summer.

“I very much enjoy all that goes on here. We are very proud to be able to provide all these services to our local community. I like the socialization and the convenience of the center being nearby,” said Esterina Wagner of Johnston, vice president of the center’s board of directors.

Liz Muir of Cortland, president of the board, said the center offers services for residents of Boyd’s Kinsman Home who bring seniors from the group home to the center three days each week.

“They enjoy being here and we get to interact with them. They get to take part in card games, Wii bowling and crafts,” she said.

George Shimko of Johnston, who has been attending since the center opened, said he enjoys being able to socialize with other community members.

“Everyone who comes here has a great time. There is a lot to do and the food is good,” he said.

Bernice Thompson of Johnston said she tries to get to the center almost every day.

“This center brings in the good side of people. It really does. It’s nice to have the residents here from the Boyd’s Kinsman Home. It is a friendly place,” she said.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
     

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.85/week.

Subscribe Today