As the new school year commences, both children and senior citizens in Kalkara are now able to reap the benefits of the School Grannies project, which was initiated as a pilot endeavour in 2021. This initiative was launched through a formal agreement between Active Ageing and Community Care and the Local Council of Kalkara. In response to expressed interest from the Kalkara Local Council, primary school students in Kalkara will now have the support of two school grannies to assist them in entering and leaving the school premises.
The overarching aim of this initiative is to motivate older individuals, including those who may be retired or have reduced family responsibilities, to remain actively engaged within the community, all while fostering meaningful intergenerational connections.
During a visit on the first day of the school year in Kalkara, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli observed the school grannies aiding children as they entered the school. She lauded their dedication to this project and underscored, “Intergenerational activities contribute to a more inclusive society by bridging generational gaps and nurturing mutual respect and understanding.”
The responsibilities of the School Grannies include being present near the school premises to accompany children during their entry and exit, following a schedule prepared by the Local Council. In collaboration with the police, they also play a role in managing and regulating traffic and ensuring the safe crossing of children.
Mayor of Kalkara, Wayne Aquilina, elucidated that this initiative will yield numerous positive benefits within the Kalkara community and will further fortify the sense of community in the area. He affirmed, “Individuals above the age of 60 will now have the opportunity to be in close proximity to children in the community, and every day, the children will encounter someone to greet them, converse with them, and accompany them beyond the school gates.”
On his part, the CEO of Active Ageing and Community Care, Renzo Degabriele, expressed contentment that this intergenerational initiative, in cooperation with the Kalkara Local Council, is proving to be a triumph. He urges more Local Councils to take part in this initiative.
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