Portrait of Betty Ehart. Photo by Bernadette Lauritzen

LARSO NEWS:

The Los Alamos Retired and Senior Organization (LARSO), wishes to clarify some confusion in the community – the Betty Ehart and White Rock senior centers are not closing.

“As of this date and this time there is no plan for either of the senior centers to close to the public,” LARSO Executive Director Bernadette Lauritzen said. “Once again rumors have started that one or both centers are closing. Residents are always welcome to call and ask us if something is of concern – and not spread false information, which tends to worry older seniors.”

While it is true that during the month of January the centers are not serving in-person meals, a drive thru lunch format is available for members 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, she said.

Lauritzen explained that the decision to suspend in-person dining was not an easy one, but with local COVID numbers rising, it was the right thing to do for seniors and staff, adding that the rise in fully vaccinated and boosted adults getting infected made the decision simple.

“Often I am asked, what can people due to help. I ask that if you are over 60, you join the senior center, which is free, and come to lunch, even once a year,” Lauritzen said. “The numbers we have on our rosters, especially new seniors who join and utilize a service is important to demonstrate our worth and helps when we request additional funds.”

The centers are in a budget cycle for the state, which will fund programs (meals, transportation, adult day care and volunteer programs) for the next four years. The centers hope to add additional services, known as chore services or home maker services, in July. Then, when seniors need help with small projects, your friendly senior center staff will be at the ready. When a member needs a hand, the paperwork is in place and help is just a phone call away.

“BE OUR VOICE is the theme for the legislative session beginning Jan. 18. Additional information will come out shortly, but the needs of seniors are top of mind,” Lauritzen said. “What do you think we need locally, let us hear your voice?”

Here is a short survey of which the input will be compiled and sent to the state: link.

If you would like the link emailed to you or a copy of the newsletter, call 505.662.8920 and make a request or email Director@losalamosseniorcenter.com.