Senior citizens invited to annual gumbo

The Jeff Davis Council on Aging (COA) is offering an opportunity to get all parish seniors aged 60 and over involved in fall activities while enjoying fellowship and a favorite Cajun delicacy.

COA Executive Director Helen Langley said the agency provides a diverse group of peers for seniors to spend time socializing.

“We never outgrow the need for a social life,” said Langley. “The desire doesn’t fade as we grow older. In fact, some elderly people become lonely after the passing of a spouse, less frequent visits from family members and the physical limitations that may prevent getting out on their own on a regular basis.”

The annual Fall Fest Gumbo, which is sponsored by Sheriff Ivy Woods, is being held at the Welsh Community Center, located at 101 Palmer St.

On Friday, Oct. 26 at 8 a.m., the doors open. At 9 a.m. bingo, raffle and door prizes will begin. Starting at 10:30 a.m., gumbo and potato salad will be served. The event will wrap up around noon.

All seniors aged 60 and over who reside in Jeff Davis Parish are invited to attend.

Staff will be on-site to administer flu shots to anyone covered by Medicaid or Medicare. Those who are interested will need to bring identification and Medicaid or Medicare card.

A representative from Southwest Louisiana Independence Center (SLIC) will also be available with information for seniors who are in need of free landline phones for the hearing impaired. Applicants must meet income guidelines to qualify for this service.

For more information on the gumbo, call Kim Benoit at (337) 824-5504.