The frigid cold temperatures did nothing to dampen the warm greetings seniors received at the Valentine’s Day event at the Eden Prairie Senior Center on Feb. 12.
Staff and volunteers greeted each guest as they entered the makeshift “drive thru” for a few kind words and a friendly “masked” face. Sue Bohnsack, Senior Center director, and Josh Rockey, recreation specialist, handed out red carnations and a goodie bag to each attendee.
Inside each goodie bag were thoughtful gifts donated by the event’s generous sponsors. The Eden Prairie Fire Department and the Eden Prairie Police Department were also on hand to pass out much-needed hot cups of coffee.
Like many other businesses and services, the Senior Center has been closed since the pandemic first made its appearance last winter. Normally bustling with activities for seniors, the temporarily closed building has left many without the resources and camaraderie this social hub usually provides.
Bohnsack misses clients, saying, “It’s wonderful to be able to see my senior friends and offer special well wishes. Both Josh and I miss seeing their smiling faces.”
Missing friends seems to be a common thread among many, right now, and when asked if there are plans to reopen anytime soon, Rockey shared, “With a little luck and good weather we may see a gradual reopening of some events and services this spring, but only time will tell.”