Four-year-old Faith Castillo was eager to show off her turkey sticker craft to Marianne McGowan, as they sat together last month during an intergenerational lunch at the Methuen YMCA. Faith then kept McGowan laughing and smiling throughout lunch as she eagerly tried the food on her plate – picking apart green beans with her finger, saying “MMMMM” when she tried the stuffing, and asking for more turkey.
Inside the Merrimack Valley YMCA Methuen Branch gym, the seniors from Methuen Village and the young learners from the Y’s preschool shared a traditional Thanksgiving meal during a “Friendsgiving” luncheon.
It was a continuation of a partnership that started this fall. Last month, the seniors visited the Y to read to preschool students. The children were thrilled to have their new senior buddies back again. In December, the preschoolers will take a field trip to Methuen Village for a holiday-themed craft and cookie-making activity.
“Our ‘Friendsgiving’ lunch was a special day for our preschoolers, some who may not have extended families or grandparents nearby,” said Cathy Redard, executive director of child care and the Methuen YMCA. “I saw a lot of smiles and playfulness and, as we continue this partnership, the children will remember the seniors and build stronger connections.”
The relationship between the Y and Methuen Village was an easy partnership to start – Ashley Gonzalez who manages programming at the senior living community also has son who attends the Methuen Y preschool.
“This partnership is incredibly special and genuinely meaningful, enriching the lives of so many,” said Gonzalez. “The joy it brings to the seniors is profound, and seeing our residents feel valued and connected gives them a renewed sense of purpose. Having my own son be part of this and witnessing children learn compassion and the power of human connection is truly the most wonderful thing in the world to me.”
The Methuen YMCA cares for nearly 200 children a day with toddler care, preschool and early education as well as after school care.
To learn more about the Merrimack Valley YMCA and its programs visit mvymca.org.
Daleysha Peguero with Terri Collier enjoy time together.
Preschooler Francisco Melendez shares a laugh with Richard Bonetti.
