Appreciation and respect for our elders
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As we embrace the holiday season and approach the end of the year, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible community-driven spirit we have here in Fort Richmond. I see that spirit especially in the wisdom and generosity of our elders. They are the ones who built the foundations of our city, province and nation, and they continue to support our community with humility.
I’ve seen this firsthand at Trinity United Church, where seniors not only gather for worship but also volunteer tirelessly — organizing food drives, tending the community garden, and creating a space of welcome for everyone. Their commitment inspired me to rise in the legislature and make a member’s statement celebrating Trinity United’s 60th anniversary. I also recognized the German-Canadian Congress in the legislature, whose leaders are elders who have preserved language and culture for and who about the celebrate the organization’s 40th anniversary and Christkindlmarkt. These statements came from a place of deep respect for the incredible contributions our seniors make every day.
This is why our NDP government created Manitoba’s first seniors advocate. This independent office will ensure older adults have a strong voice in decisions that affect them — from health care and housing to transportation and safety. Seniors will now have someone dedicated to listening, identifying gaps, and pushing for solutions so they can live with dignity and continue contributing to our province.
Supplied photo
Fort Richmond MLA Jennifer Chen presented members of Trinity United Church with a copy of the member’s statement she made in the legislature to celebrate the church’s 60th anniversary.
Right here in Fort Richmond, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Pembina Active Living 55-plus, located in Trinity United Church. PAL 55-plus is a place for older adults to find friendship, fitness, and purpose. I’ve joined their gatherings and seen the joy of people connecting through yoga, art classes, or simply sharing stories over coffee. Our government’s funding for PAL 55-plus will help them expand programs and reach more seniors, ensuring no one feels isolated. It’s about giving back to those who gave us so much.
To every elder in Fort Richmond: thank you. As we marked Remembrance Day, we also honoured the veterans whose courage shaped our freedom. Our promise to them and to Manitobans is simple — we will keep listening, keep acting, and keep delivering so that people of every age can live with security, dignity, and the opportunity to contribute.
As always, I welcome hearing from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out by email at jennifer.chen@yourmanitoba.ca, call us at 431-294-9854, or visit our office at Unit E–2810 Pembina Hwy. Together, we can continue making a meaningful difference in our community.