A plan to provide a gathering place for Canadian’s senior citizens has been quietly developing in weekly meetings. On Tuesday, July 11, the organizers issued a public invitation to all senior citizens to join them for fellowship and lunch at Mesa View Senior Living.

The concept for the Senior Citizens Gathering began with Hemphill County Judge Lisa Johnson, who explained that she started thinking about it after having read so many reports of a growing sense of isolation experienced particularly by seniors, during and following the COVID pandemic.

“I just happened to remember the 50s Plus building, and wondered if there might be some interest in a new seniors group,” she said.

Johnson discussed the idea with Sherry Wagoner, who is a member of the Sit N Fit group at the Canadian Community Center. Wagoner thought there might be interest, and an informal survey of the other group members, along with some folks at church, confirmed it.

“I talked to Ike [Julian] at the Canadian Community Center,” Johnson said, “and he was excited about looking into it, so we got some stakeholders together from the hospital, Extension Service, Library, Meals on Wheels, the CCC, and others, and started brainstorming.”

“Everyone seemed so enthusiastic about it, and was willing to do whatever they could to help,” she added.

Mesa View Senior Living offered to host the meetings in their Heritage Community Center. All agreed that a noon meal would be prepared there, as well.

The common consensus in those first early gatherings was to start with a weekly meeting every Tuesday beginning in July, and to see what develops. Mesa View Senior Living Administrator Audra McComas said that there have been 25-plus in attendance at past gatherings. 

"I believe they are anticipating a good turnout for next week's meeting (on Tuesday, July 18)," said McComas. “Don Allen from the Beakley Law Firm will present a program on Estate Preservation and Medicaid Eligibility Planning.”

An invitation has been conveyed the community’s seniors through church congregations and in a mailing sent out today (Wednesday). A survey of seniors will determine what kind of programs they want. “We want it to be senior-driven,” Johnson said.

Already on the calendar for September’s meeting is a presentation by River Valley Pioneer Museum director Tamera Julian, who will discuss plans to begin preserving oral histories here.

In addition to hosting a speaker once a month, Johnson said, games are available, the piano beckons and conversation is always welcome.

A July 25 senior gathering is already on the calendar, and will take place in the Heritage Community Center at Mesa View Senior Living, located at 106 Teas Circle. Lunch will be provided, free of charge. The group meets from 11 am-1 pm.

By the way, if you’re wondering whether you’re senior enough—just assume you are, and come enjoy the good company and food.