By Jim Garside, Administration Officer, Time to Shine

Time to Shine attended the launch event of the Chinese Seniors’ Project.

The project was launched on 11th January along with some fantastic New Year celebrations at Beeston Village Community Centre, Health for All.

Rachel Koivunen, Time to Shine Project Manager, spoke about the benefits of food projects and how eating together unites communities and reduces social isolation.

The launch was attended by more than 40 Chinese seniors and volunteers who attend the weekly breakfast sessions at Beeston Village Community centre. 

Chinese seniors came from across Leeds to enjoy a fresh cooked Chinese meal made by volunteers at the centre.

Toshal Bhatia, Healthy Communities Service Manager for Health for All, gave a presentation to capture what the project had achieved so far.

The project’s activities have included a Monday Luncheon Club and visits to Manchester Chinese Older People’s Centre, York National Railway Museum and Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

Volunteers and project workers were thanked and presented with gifts, including chocolates and Chinese calendars, followed by celebrations including Chinese singing, food and games.

Pat McGeever, Chief Executive of Health for All, said:

“I just wanted to say how honoured we at Health for All feel to be of service to you, and your community, because it’s you as older people who make groups like this so wonderful.”

“We are very much at your service and hope we will have a very long and loving relationship.”

The Chinese Seniors’ Project is funded by Big Lottery, LOPF and delivered by Health for all (Leeds).

The project engages with isolated Chinese seniors to help them become less socially isolated and lead more fulfilled, happier and healthier lives.

It aims to give Chinese seniors an increased sense of wellbeing and self-worth through the ongoing friendship, support and social contact provided by younger volunteers who understand their language and cultural needs.