by Geoff Fox
The Hancock Senior Center is open three days a week and averages visits from 10 people each day. But what those folks do during those days is making an impact on others’ lives.
Last week, a representative from Hospice stopped by the Hancock Senior Center to pick up between 50 and 60 handcrafted blankets and shawls Hancock seniors created.
Betty Frock crochets a blanket that could become one that is donated to Hospice. The Hancock Senior Center recently donated 50 to 60 blankets and shawls they made to Hospice.
Senior Center Director Hazel Dunn said the residents that come in to the center usually do the crocheting on Tuesdays. They have been making the blankets and shawls for the last three or four years.
When the Hospice representative came to pick up the blankets, Dunn said the shelving unit inside the door was stuffed with blankets.
The blankets are taken to Hospice patients as a way for nurses to connect with them better.
Dunn said the blankets were made with donated yarn and the senior center is always open to getting more yarn from donors.
Crocheting isn’t the only activity at the Hancock Senior Center.
There is a Nintendo Wii system that allows the seniors to get active while playing the games; an exercise machine; a game room with a pool table, dartboard, puzzles, and other activities; bingo and various other activities volunteers present.
There are planned activities at the center, but the seniors usually do what they want, Dunn said.
Hot meals served to the seniors are prepared at the high school, Dunn added.
There are about 10 regulars who come to the center, but Dunn said the center can serve more people and would welcome them.
Anyone interested in taking part of activities and meals at the Senior Center can show up and sign up.
The Hancock Senior Center is open Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and located on the east end of the Hancock Community Center and Town Hall.
Seniors must be a resident of Maryland and be at least 60 years old.
Anyone who would like to volunteer to help with a computer class or another activity can contact Dunn at 301-678-5867.
