I rise today to say it’s an honour to represent the constituents of Ajax, and I will continue to be an advocate for them.

I have the privilege of volunteering at the Homebound Wellness Centre. The Homebound Wellness Centre is a not-for-profit organization located in Ajax, servicing the needs of the seniors of Durham. They offer a large range of services for seniors, including mobile day programs, respite care, foot care clinics, support groups and a hot meal program, as well as delivering groceries to seniors during COVID. Their mission statement is to establish, operate and maintain social, recreational and health-related programs and activities for seniors in the community.

After two years of the pandemic, organizations like these are integral to improve the wellness and independence of seniors who are lonely and isolated, and individuals living with various traumas or postpartum depression.

One of my favourite programs to volunteer for is their Thursday night seniors’ dinner. It is really an amazing experience, being able to serve the various seniors who attend this program. It’s an array of cultures, languages and lived experiences, great conversations and amazing stories. Cerita Miller, the program director, is purposeful in creating and serving amazing meals, accompanied by music, singing and interaction. The seniors work on a project, usually a craft to take home; the last one gifted to me was a thankful pumpkin craft for my door.

These are an amazing time—and I thank that organization for all they do for seniors.