[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 123 (Monday, October 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1786]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE BALDWIN SENIOR CENTER AS THEY CELEBRATE THEIR 25TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 4, 2004

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to extend my sincere congratulations to the Baldwin Senior Center 
Stratford, Connecticut, as they celebrate their 25th Anniversary. This 
is a remarkable milestone for an organization dedicated to enriching 
the lives of Stratford's seniors.
  Senior centers play a vital role in our communities and this is 
especially true of the Baldwin Senior Center. All too often, what are 
supposed to one's ``golden years'' are filled with struggles. Health 
concerns, increasing health care costs, the loss of independence--these 
are just some of the challenges our seniors face. Perhaps even more 
devastating is the sense of loneliness that can come as one moves 
through their later years. Providing invaluable programs and services, 
senior centers make a real difference in the lives of some of our most 
vulnerable citizens. That is why they are so important to our seniors 
and our communities.
  In addition to regular daily activities--which include bingo, book 
discussions, yoga, quilting classes, and oil painting--the Baldwin 
Senior Center offers unique opportunities for seniors to get involved 
with their community. Their knitting/crocheting group made over two 
dozen hats, scarves, and mittens which were donated to Stratford's 
South End Community Center. Over 120 seniors and students from Bunnell 
High School participated in a ``Senior Prom'' as a fundraiser for the 
Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society's annual funding drive. The 
Community Service group organized a project during the summer which had 
seniors reading books to youngsters from the town's minority center. 
And seniors sponsored a cupcake bake sale, using the proceeds to buy 
books which they brought to the South End Community Center. All of 
these activities ensure that the seniors stay active and involved which 
makes all the difference--both in their lives and those of many others.
  Just as important as the activities are the services which are 
provided at the Center. Executive Director Diane Puterski is joined by 
several dedicated staff who work hard to ensure Stratford's seniors 
have access to the care and benefits they need. Outreach Coordinator 
Marie Gunman provides services to homebound adults and those who choose 
not to use the Center by making home visits to people needing 
information or who are referred to the Center by other agencies as 
being in need. Lisa Stone manages the program which provides help with 
entitlements and benefits including Medicare, energy assistance, 
Medigap insurances, ConnPACE, and Title XIX among others. Diane Russo 
coordinates the Family Caregivers Support Program which is funded by 
the Southwest Area Agency on Aging. Through this program, she provides 
support, information, and education to persons caring for older adults 
with chronic illnesses, such as Alzheimer's Disease. Together, the 
staff of the Baldwin Senior Center are improving the quality of life 
for our seniors. An unequaled resource for seniors and their families, 
the Baldwin Senior Center is a true community treasure.
  Always welcomed with open arms and warm smiles, I have enjoyed the 
time I have had the opportunity to spend at the Baldwin Senior Center. 
As they celebrate their Silver Anniversary, I am proud to stand today 
and extend my sincere congratulations on this special occasion as well 
as my very best wishes for many more years of unparalleled service to 
their community.

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