A Chilliwack seniors residence wants frontline workers to know just how appreciated they are.
The folks at Crystal Ridge Manor, a seniors independent living residence, hosted a barbecue for healthcare workers on Wednesday (June 23) and are now planning a second one for police officers and firefighters on June 29.
“I just want to say thank you, a big thank you to all of them, and to say we really respect what they do,” said Margaret Kostrzewa, general manager of Crystal Ridge. “They need to be thanked because they have put super long hours in and they still come to work with a smile on their face.”
Kostrzewa knows firsthand that healthcare workers have been working a lot of overtime during the pandemic. She knows many doctors, nurses and other workers have not had a vacation in more than a year.
And over the past 15 months, those frontline workers and the community have done so much for seniors, she added.
Kostrzewa said how loved the 23 residents at Crystal Ridge felt during the pandemic. At Christmas they were showered with gifts as part of two programs – Adopt-A-Senior and Stocking Stuffers for Seniors. The seniors were also brought valentines, Easter goodies and free Girl Guide cookies.
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“It’s giving back,” Kostrzewa said of the free barbecues. “To me, they deserve a bravery award just for the fact that they’ve done so much.”
Police officers and firefighters can head over to the free barbecue at Crystal Ridge Manor (45665 McIntosh Dr.) on Tuesday, June 29 from 11:30 a.m. until about 1 p.m.
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