NEWS RELEASE
SWIRLEEZ FROZEN YOGURT SHOP
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Since the start of the shutdowns in March, Swirleez Frozen Yogurt Shop downtown Barrie has been getting even more smiles from seniors in Barrie who are isolating during lockdowns by providing handmade Smile Pops and frozen yogurt through their Swirleez’ Smile Pop Program for Retirement Homes and Long Term Care facilities.
Thus far, they’ve partnered with two facilities, Coleman Care Centre and Mill Creek Care Centre, providing bowls of frozen yogurt and their custom-made, decorated gelato Smile Pops, pre-ordered and delivered monthly.
“The idea to bring our frozen treats to the care homes was because they were hit hardest by the COVID pandemic this Spring and we wanted to put a smile on the residents’ faces,” said Teresa Woolard, who operates two businesses in Barrie’s downtown core, Swirleez Frozen Yogurt Shop and Chillz Dessert Lounge.
Seniors and staff at the care facilities are seeing very positive effects from the program.
“You can see the residents’ faces light up. They look forward to the day they know this treat is coming,” said Mary Johnston, of Coleman Care Centre. “It gives us something to look forward to, which is important because their families may live far away and cannot visit as often as they would like, so these treats bring them a smile and a little bit of joy.”
Swirleez’ program will continue into the Fall and Winter season and their goal is to expand into 30 more care facilities and potentially other communities across the region.
“The residents love being able to pick their flavour and toppings, and that they can keep the spoon! Every once and awhile we get enough to treat our team members as well, and they enjoy sitting and enjoying a treat with the residents. I love this program and will continue to do this on a monthly basis!” said Karen Andrews, Director of Recreation, Coleman Care Centre.
“Our goal would be to expand our Smile Pop program to other cities and bring smiles to as many seniors as we can in long term care centres,” she said.
For more information on how to participate in the program contact Teresa Woolard at Swirleez yogurt shop at (705) 252-5129.
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