Gladys enjoys the weekly visits from Hillsmeade Primary School’s Chloe.
By Kelly Yates
STUDENTS from a Narre Warren primary school have been volunteering their time to read, write and play card games with residents from the Casey Manor aged care facility.
Eight students from Hillsmeade Primary School give up their lunchtime to visit the residents every Tuesday for half an hour.
Hillsmeade Primary School service officer Sue Stevens said the school’s buddy-based program had been successfully running since 2007.
She said the children build up special bonds with the residents.
“The residents just light up when they see the students. It’s a learning curve for all.”
Year 6 student Josh, who has been involved with the program for the past two years, said he enjoyed keeping the residents company.
Casey Manor resident Jack Pratt, 96, said he looked forward to the visits from the children each week.
“I made toys for 25 years for charity and I have always had an interest in young families, so I enjoy the time I spend with the happy young people,” he said.
Ms Stephens said the program would be an ongoing part of the school’s curriculum.
