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Millions under threat of strong tornadoes and violent winds as storm danger increases Friday; Expanded Clean Slate laws in NC, US could improve public safety; TX farmers and ranchers benefit from federal conservation funds; Head Start supports WA parents, celebrates 60 years.

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Omaha elects its first Black mayor, U.S. Supreme Court considers whether lower courts can prevent Trump administration's removal of birthright citizenship, and half of states consider their own citizenship requirements for voter registration.

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Millions of rural Americans would lose programs meant to help them buy a home under the Trump administration's draft 2026 budget, independent medical practices and physicians in rural America are becoming rare, and gravity-fed acequias are a centerpiece of democratic governance in New Mexico.

'We Welcome Everyone': CT Senior Centers Rebound Post-Pandemic

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Wednesday, June 7, 2023   

As Connecticut and the rest of the U.S. leave the COVID-19 pandemic behind, senior centers are welcoming back participants they have not seen in a while, at least, not in person.

While senior centers across the U.S. were forced to limit their programs, they still managed to find ways to reach out to people who rely on them.

A National Council on Aging survey found senior centers help older adults feel connected, especially if they face barriers in their community.

Yvette Huyghue-Pannell, director of senior services for the Bloomfield Senior Center, noted the need for connection during the pandemic led to the creation of the Day Brighteners program.

"Someone came to your door, they rang your doorbell," Huyghue-Pannell recounted. "You weren't afraid to open the door for someone that you knew, have a brief conversation, and then in a bag -- that they either handed to you, if you felt that you could do that, gloved -- they would then hand you a bag that had some kind of treat in it."

A 2021 survey published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society showed loneliness has been a common feeling among seniors during the pandemic. Around 23% of those surveyed reported increased loneliness or sadness, and 37% said they had greater feelings of social disconnection.

Gov. Ned Lamont has allocated $10 million for senior center improvements, $9 million to municipalities, and additional funds to the state's Department of Aging and Disability Services for statewide senior center activities.

As centers continue to rebound from the COVID crisis, Huyghue-Pannell observed people are eager to come back. She added the center is also working to accommodate lingering uneasiness about post-pandemic life.

"If you need to wear a mask, if you need to stay distant from other people, whatever way that you feel comfortable, come as you are," Huyghue-Pannell urged. "We welcome everyone, and that's always what we do."

She added hybrid programs over Zoom and in-person have become a staple of the center. Meanwhile, in-person and even some travel-abroad programs are continuing since restrictions have been lifted.


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