Manchester senior center reports rising participation; plans bus training and 30-day passes funded from luncheon donations

The Manchester Senior Services Commission heard a report April 15 at the Cashin Senior Center on expanding programs and rising participation among older residents, and commissioners agreed to use funds collected for the mayor’s senior luncheon to support travel training and 30‑day bus passes for older riders.

Emily, a senior center staff member, told commissioners that ticket sales for the mayor’s senior luncheon — scheduled for May 7 at noon — have begun and can be purchased at the senior center or the health department. She reported program highlights including a dental van visit that served nearly 30 members over about three and a half days with two hygienists; an April 10 presentation by the Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester attended by more than 30 people; new hearing‑screening dates; regularly scheduled police walks for seniors; and volunteer recognition events during April’s volunteer appreciation month.

“Last year, we did see quite a lot of increase in many different areas…we're up, probably close to 15%,” Emily said, summarizing year‑over‑year…