Grenada 55 Plus Group giving back through service

By Lincoln DePradine

Dawne Francois, president of the Grenada 55 Plus Group, is satisfied with the outcome of a recent group fundraiser that will assist with implementing the organization’s programs and services, including an upcoming health seminar.

“We aim to provide opportunities for meaningful connections, learning, and well-being,” said Francois, commenting on the 55 Plus Group that attracted about 200 people to its July 12 annual tea party at North York’s Montecassino Hotel.

All money raised from the sold out-event is for “giving back’’ to charitable causes, Francois told The Caribbean Camera. “We’ve had some really good donors, including Montecassino.’’

With its available funds at the end of last year, the group was able to host a Christmas luncheon for 125 seniors in Toronto.

A request also was made to the group, by Grenadian clergyman Edward Mark, to help seniors in Grenada.

“In response to a request from Father Edward Mark – on behalf of the Ministry of Health –  the group made personal contributions and gathered additional donations to provide Christmas hampers for seniors in need in Grenada,’’ said Francois, a firmer Grenada Honourary Consul General in Toronto.

‘Then, we packed and shipped essential supplies to the Mt Gay Psychiatric Hospital and the Richmond Hill Home for the Aged in Grenada.’’

Next on the calendar of the Grenada 55 Plus Group is a seminar in September on mental health, cancer, insurance, making wills, and on estate and planning, which is open not just to Grenadian-Canadians but also to all members of the Black and Caribbean community to attend.

“We’ve reached out to other organizations to join us,’’ said Francois, who previously served the group in the roles of public relations officer and event planner.

The group, said Francois, is a “vital hub for Grenadians and friends of Grenada in Toronto to stay connected and give back’’.

Francois credits her predecessors, for Grenada 55 Plus presidents, Joan Charles and Greta Best, for laying a “solid foundation’’ for meeting the group’s mission of “fostering a sense of belonging and promoting an active lifestyle among individuals aged 55 and older’’.

“It’s a privilege to lead this group and continue building on the legacy of community support and connection,” she said.

Francois also praised the support she has received from group members and the executive team of the organization.

However, she revealed that the group is interested in additional members, including men and women who may be younger than 55.

LJI reporter

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