On February 13, the Feast of the Holy Candlemas was celebrated at the Gyumri Elderly Day Care Center of Armenian Caritas.
The holiday was honored by Father Mashtots Zahteryan, who explained the meaning of the holiday. After the Lord’s Prayer the beneficiaries circulated around and sang songs. In the end the center’s beneficiaries, volunteers and staff jumped over the bonfire. Later everyone was expecting a feast. All beneficiaries, volunteers and staff were happy and enjoyed the days.
According to the Center’s beneficiaries, the center allows not only spend fine time in the center but also to memorize and celebrate such national and religious holidays.
Not only the beneficiaries but also the entire staff of the center, were also happy with the benefits. Many beneficiaries have been in the center for more than 6 years.
The Center operates with the goal of enable 50 disabled elderly citizens of Gyumri (located in Shirak region, Armenia) to integrate into society and receive equal treatment through the provision of a range of supportive services, including legal and social assistance.
All beneficiaries are registered with the Primary Health Care Clinic of Armenian Caritas, where they receive medical assistance and medications prescribed by the doctors. Nurses with a specialization in Geriatric Care are responsible for conducting home visits and providing beneficiaries with basic medical care and general assistance according to their individual needs.
Daily leisure activities include table games, interesting TV programs, concerts with professional musicians and schoolchildren, and visiting museums and the theatre.