The Shirley Council on Aging has received a significant boost with a state grant of $15,000, aimed at enhancing facilities at the local senior center. The funding was officially presented on January 14, 2026, during a check presentation event attended by community leaders and supporters.
At the event, Amy Leonard, the director of the Shirley Senior Center and Council on Aging, expressed her gratitude, stating, “This is a celebration for the senior center. All of us work together, and this program has been made better by each and every one of you.” The funds are earmarked for essential kitchen upgrades, including the replacement of a thirty-year-old refrigerator and the acquisition of new tables and chairs.
State Senator John Cronin presented the check and highlighted the collaborative efforts that led to the funding. He acknowledged Representative Danillo Sena for his role in securing the appropriation and recognized the contributions of former director Kristen O’Brien and Town Administrator Bryan Sawyer. “Today is a great day,” Cronin remarked, emphasizing his office’s commitment to assisting the community in various capacities.
Cronin further detailed his office’s outreach efforts, noting that his Constituent Service Director, Beth Walsh, holds regular office hours at the Shirley Senior Center. “Our real job is to support communities. Help us help you,” he stated, reinforcing the importance of community engagement.
The event also featured a meal prepared by the center’s staff, which included veggie lasagna and salad. Sena acknowledged the cooks for their efforts, stating, “Thank you for thinking of Shirley. Thank you for thinking of supporting the senior center here.”
Leonard, who has been in her role since September, emphasized her connection to the community, expressing how impactful the funding is for future developments. She described the moment when Cronin reached out to offer support as “earth shattering.” “This is wonderful, so glad to see things moving forward. Dollars go a long way,” she said.
Volunteer member Vicki Landry, who has a long-standing history with the Council on Aging, expressed optimism about the funding’s impact. She noted that providing services and programs for seniors fosters community interaction, which is crucial to preventing isolation among elderly residents. “It is so needed to keep them from being isolated,” Landry explained, adding her hope for greater participation from younger seniors.
O’Brien, who played a key role in securing the grant while serving as the center’s director, expressed gratitude for the support from local officials. “I am just so grateful for everything they are doing to support the senior center,” she said.
Cronin concluded the event by reiterating the flexibility of the funding, allowing the Council on Aging to allocate resources where they are most needed. “The funding secured in this year’s budget for the Shirley Council on Aging will have a direct impact on our seniors and the special community they continue to foster,” he stated. His commitment to ongoing support for the town and its residents was clear, promising collaboration to enhance the quality of life for everyone involved.
