Laramie County Senior Center tells council participation has surged; requests ongoing support

Erin LeBlanc, director of the Laramie County Senior Center, told the Cheyenne Committee of the Whole on May 20 that demand for senior services has surged since the center moved into a new facility.

"Since opening our new facility at 4100 East Pershing on July 7, our participation has increased by 75%," LeBlanc said, describing expanded program offerings (more than 30 classes) and larger daily congregate meal counts (about 100 to 120 meals per day). The center operates nutrition and social services programs under the Older Americans Act and provides free nutritional counseling and referral services to seniors.

LeBlanc said the center does not turn away anyone over age 60 for inability to pay (suggested donations: $5 breakfast, $6 lunch) and highlighted the center's role in addressing loneliness among older residents and supporting caregivers. "A strong senior center benefits the entire community," she said.

Council members including Dr. Aldridge and Councilman Escoffier praised the center and discussed potential tours and additional support. Dr. Aldridge said about 22,000 Laramie County residents qualify for senior services (age 60+), emphasizing that the center is "outgrowing" its space and that future parking and facility expansions will require planning and funding.

LeBlanc told the council the center serves congregate meals and runs programs that attract participants from surrounding communities and noted increased demand after the YMCA closed and program staff expanded. The council acknowledged the request and indicated it would consider funding in the budget process.

Next steps: the budget, as amended by the Committee, advances for further readings; council members suggested a site tour for elected officials and continued coordination with county and nonprofit partners.