Elmwood Avenue Center
The Center at 209 Elmwood Ave in Providence is open seven days a week from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. It is a bright, welcoming open-space. Smiling faces, friendly hugs and hearty handshakes greet you as you enter. We are like an extended family; each and every participant is important.
Here, there is a sense of belonging, cheerfulness and homelike comforts. Participants often stop by the kitchen to say good morning to the cook and to check what is for lunch. The cook welcomes these morning visits. Participants start the day with a cup of coffee and light breakfast along with some friendly conversation before the activities begin.
A typical morning includes exercise class, music, crafts and educational classes. At noon, everyone shares a delicious hot meal together. In the afternoon, there may be a bingo game, discussion group or a party. Of course, there are always several tables with ongoing games of dominos and for those who wish to relax or even take a nap, there is a “quiet area” for just that purpose.
After a nutritious afternoon-snack, the activities begin to wind down and participants prepare to return home. By 3:00 pm, the participants head out the door to board the transportation vans to go home. The day has ended but participants smile as they begin to look forward to their next day at the Center.
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"The world becomes a better place
because of places like Elmwood!" |
"Before coming to the Center I was a very depressed person. I was always home alone, crying. I thought no one cared for me, and I had no friends. When I came to the Center my life changed. I now have the support of family and friends which has made me feel happier and has given me more zest for life. I thank the Center for helping me so much."
Elizabeth Ortiz- Participant since September 2012 |
