Revelstoke’s Community Response Network helps our town connect

By Éliane McGoldrick, Revelstoke Coordinator, B.C. Association of Community Response Networks

Revelstoke Community Response Network is reaching out this month to Revelstokians to send a smile or lend a hand to vulnerable adults in need. We have such a colourful community, and our seniors play a big part in that. We need to honour the seniors who have helped build our town and continue to make valuable contributions in our communities.

Sadly, many older adults in Revelstoke are vulnerable to multiple forms of abuse, neglect and self neglect, and need the whole community to be vigilant and supportive. That’s the message from the Revelstoke Community Response Network, which urges citizens to take time to “Show a Senior You Care.”

The BC Ministry of Health estimates that between four and 10 per cent of B.C. seniors have experienced some form of abuse (financial abuse is the most common form).

“Legislation alone can’t keep seniors safe — we need an involved community to make a real difference,” said Sherry Baker, Executive Director of the BC Association of Community Response Networks.

Many seniors live in isolation and Revelstoke residents can show a senior they care through gestures such as a smile and a good morning greeting. Simply taking the time to talk to an older person can make a big difference, as can inviting them for a meal or bringing a meal over, offering to help with chores or driving them to appointments.

The Revelstoke Community Response Network is part of the B.C. Association of Community Response Networks (BC CRN), whose mandate is to work with community, agencies, and government to develop a coordinated response to cases of abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults.

A CRN provides information and support so the community that can both prevent and respond effectively to abuse and neglect. Visit: www.bccrns.ca. Thanks for your help Revy.

Do you have a story you’d like to share with the community of Revelstoke about your organization, club, or community group? Contact the Revelstoke Mountaineer at [email protected].