Hillsmeade Primary School students Breeanna, Joel, Matt and Josh with Casey Manor residents Hilda Hurst, Keith Doodt, Len Hawkett and, back, Jack Pratt during a visit last week.
CASEY Manor residents are feeling young at heart thanks to the kind deeds of some local children.
Hillsmeade Primary School students have been visiting the elderly residents as part of a program called Bridges.
The students meet their buddy once a week during a 45-minute session and undertake different activities designed to build a range of social and academic skills.
Hillsmeade co-ordinator Sue Stephens said the participants read stories, did woodwork, played games and learnt about the past experiences of the residents during the visits.
The program also benefited the Narre Warren residents, Casey Manor co-ordinator Sue McFarlane said.
“It is wonderful to watch the friendships grow and the positive effect it is having on both the children and residents,” Ms McFarlane said.
“We are looking forward to extending our community-based programs to other groups,” she said.
