There are 46 affordable independent-living senior apartments in Tulpehocken Terrace in Myerstown, one of the six such buildings owned and managed by Community Homes of Lebanon County.

Life is normally routine and pleasant for the residents. That, of course changed for them, as well as the rest of us, when the COVID-19 pandemic affected all of our routines. For the residents, the joy of getting together in the community room is temporarily on hold. Group activities like jigsaw puzzles, board games, bingo, and just general chatting around the table are no longer allowed until the all-clear is signaled.

“We care very much about our residents,” Site Administrator Charlotte McNamara says, “We check in on them more regularly than we normally would. And we look for ways to brighten their lives when we can. The surprise Easter dinner was a good example.”
Charlotte and her team, resident assistants Trudy Smith and Cindy Bender, prepared an Easter dinner for every resident in the building and went door to door with surprise deliveries on Friday, April 10th. “The delight on people’s faces was our reward.” Noted Trudy and Cindy.

Each dinner consisted of ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, dinner roll, cup cake, and candy treats. “We also provided some puzzles and an entry for a coloring contest. We want to make sure everyone is involved and part of the community during this challenging time,” Charlotte concluded.

Author:  Jack Cantwell