Community has always been important to John Henderson. For 30 years, he served others as a career, risking his life as a Toronto firefighter. When you speak with him today, he’s nonchalant, humble even; others may see heroism when they think of firefighters but for John it was simply his job.
Complications from a serious heart attack led to his retirement, yet he continues to serve others as part of the community within The Village of Erin Meadows. Alongside his fellow residents in long-term care at The Village, the latest contribution was a significant donation to the local Food Bank.
He says that while he and his neighbours may live in long-term care because they require support, they maintain their keen understanding of the needs of others. They realize that times are difficult for some families struggling to make ends meet in a complex world where the cost of living seems to continually rise, and they wanted to help.
As the president of the resident’s council, he was a key part of the discussion within the community, and the Food Bank seemed like the best option.
“We had a bit of money in our account, and everybody seemed to think that a thousand bucks would be a good, half-decent donation and everybody was in agreement with it,” John says. With the Village team’s support, the council connected with Stacey Kelly, the Community Partnerships Coordinator with Food Banks Mississauga.
“I was really happy when the email came across my desk,” Stacy says. “The fact that there is a council of residents from each neighbourhood that come together and vote on where the donation goes and how it can support people in their community was humbling.”
She says her grandmother lived in a long-term care setting and she can recall many an occasion visiting her grandmother’s home to attend workshops or fundraising events, and she was touched to see the residents of Erin Meadows choosing to share their heard-earned funds with neighbours in need.
"Just because you are now in a different season of life doesn't mean your commitment to your community . . . should change,” Stacy says.
John points out there are common misconceptions about long-term care homes and he highlights the fact that many residents are very capable of contributing to the community, even if they need some support with daily activities.
With the $1,000 donation to the Food Bank, John and his neighbours at The Village of Erin Meadows illustrate this point beautifully.
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