For Immediate Release: October 31, 2018
Stratford Seniors Complex Bench Donation
Friends and family of the late Alma Birt gathered at the Stratford Seniors Complex on Mutch Drive to remember their mother and friend this week. Alma's friend Zita Roberts generously donated a bench which has been placed under a tree in front of the complex for residents and their friends and family to enjoy.
"We thank Ms. Roberts for her donation", said Stratford Mayor David Dunphy. "This bench will be a lasting memorial to Alma who was so giving of her time in the community."
Alma Birt was a member of the Stratford Seniors Complex Committee from January 2009 until her death in January 2016. As a member she acted as liaison between residents and the committee. Alma was also known to annually prepare large meals for all of the residents and their invited guests as well organizing a successful bingo fundraiser which provided funds for furniture and equipment at the complex.
In 2012 Alma received the MacDougall-MacIntyre Senior Volunteer of the Year Award from the Town of Stratford for her work on the Stratford Seniors Complex Committee as well as in the Island community with groups including with Seniors Active Living Centre, Toast Masters and as a long-time Sunday School teacher.
"Volunteers like Alma make our community a better place every day," added Dunphy. "We hope her children find comfort in knowing that we have not forgotten her contributions and that others will be able to remember her as well through the use of this bench."
L to R: Councillor Gail MacDonald, Chair of Stratford Seniors Committee; Zita Roberts, donated bench in memory of friend Alma Birt; David Dunphy, Mayor of Stratford; and Birt's sons Rick and Ira Birt.
Background Information:
The MacDougall-MacIntyre Senior Volunteer of the Year Award is presented annually to a person, or persons, who demonstrate a commitment to seniors in the Town of Stratford through outstanding volunteer service. The person or persons nominated will have demonstrated a long term commitment to Senior's and be an inspiration to others.
The Town of Stratford owns and manages the Stratford Seniors Complex located at 26 Mutch Drive. This building has 15 units and is operated through an agreement with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to provide subsidized housing based on 25% of the tenants income. The building was constructed in 1990 and the Town of Stratford has a 35 year agreement with CMHC that expires in 2025. There is a high demand for these units with a current wait list of 38 people.
-30-
For more information please contact:
Wendy Watts, Community Engagement Coordinator
Town of Stratford
T: (902) 569-6921
E: [email protected]
Printable version: Media Release -Stratford Seniors Complex Bench Donation (October 31, 2018)