The Senior Citizen’s paying it forward for aged care – Recently the Matamata Senior Citizen’s Club made the decision to wind up the organisation that has been an integral part of the Matamata community since 1965. Over the years a myriad of activities including dances, card afternoons, fundraisers and events have been held at the Arawa Street South hall they purchased from St John Ambulance in 1990. Reluctantly, due to an aging membership and the inability to form a committee, the decision was made late last year to wind up the club and its assets in accordance with the constitution.
Although the building has been taken on by Matamata Community Chest who operates the Op Shop, there was a balance of funds remaining that it was decided would be distributed among local organisations – particularly of benefit to senior citizens, but within our community. Meeting with Pohlen Hospital General Manager, Suzanne Lawes, Pohlen Foundation Administrator, Gilly Alexander and Pohlen Activities Coordinator, Robin White, Matamata Citizen’s Club chair Paddy McCarvill and Life Members Doris Stone and Phyllis Greenslade were delighted to present part of the proceeds to Pohlen Hospital suggesting the extra funds could be used in the best way possible to further enhance facilities for aged care. The remaining funds were split equally between the Matamata Community Health Shuttle, St John Ambulance, Matamata Volunteer Fire Brigade and Friendship Circle.