13 Feb Hot meals service officially launches at Basildon centre
A hot meals service has officially launched at the George Hurd Centre following a request from members.
Basildon Council’s Housing and Community Committee agreed in December to extend the catering service at the centre beyond a tea bar after a survey was carried out with members to gauge demand for hot food at lunchtime.
The service, which will operate up to two days a week, was officially launched yesterday (Monday 12 February) with live music provided for members. They were able to pick from a range of food options including cottage pie, sweet and sour chicken, cheese bake and salmon supreme.
Cllr Kerry Smith, Chairman of Basildon Council’s Housing and Community Committee, said: “The George Hurd Centre is a lifeline for a lot of older people in the borough. It is a great place to stay active, get help and advice and, most importantly, to socialise. It means a lot to members to be able to have a chat over a hot meal.
“It is important that we do all we can to provide companionship for our older community and help them to live as independently as possible.”
The George Hurd Centre offers a range of dance classes, craft activities and entertainment events for members over the age of 50. Numerous day trips are also organised for members every year.
A community investment programme approved as part of the 2018/19 budget on Thursday 8 February includes £20,000 to fund the hot meals service for a year and £16,000 to reduce membership fees at all three of Basildon Council’s activity centres.
