Kindergarten students and seniors came together for a morning of shared activities and an unexpected visit from Santa at Bellevue Park Senior Living community on Thursday, Dec. 18.

The visit was part of the Grandbuddies program, which brings Shortreed Elementary kindergarten students to the residence once a month to spend time with seniors.

Kindergarten teacher Cooper Bowers said the program is something her students eagerly anticipate.

“This warms my heart,” Bowers said. “I love it, and the kids really look forward to it.”

For Anna Tecson, Recreation Coordinator at Bellevue Park Senior Living, the holiday season is about more than festive décor or a busy calendar of events. It’s about creating moments of connection, joy and fulfillment for residents – especially those in full-time care.

“My role really means bringing person-centred care into each day,” Anna says, “Recreation is about joy. It’s about making residents’ days feel meaningful and helping them reconnect with good memories, especially during the holidays.”

Kindergartners visit Bellevue Park residents to share some Halloween spirit!

The entrance of Bellevue Park Senior Living was filled with laughter and excitement this week as kindergartners from Shortreed Elementary paid a special Halloween visit on Friday, Oct. 31.

Fran and John Whelan, at Bellevue Park Senior Living in Aldergrove. John, a Canadian Army veteran, will be reciting John McCrae's poem In Flanders Field as part of the residences Remembrance Day ceremonies. Courtesy Bellevue Park Senior Living.

Bellevue Park Residents and Friends enjoying a social activity.