Grandma’s homemade bread. Grandpa’s funny jokes. Just the thought of it takes you back in time.
Here’s a chance to get those cherished memories down on paper.
Barrie’s Senior Wish Association is embarking on The Memories Project, partnering senior citizens with local high school students to create memory books.
“We aren’t talking to each other as much anymore and so much knowledge is being lost," said Lucille Dalziel, the communications director of the local Senior Wish Association.
"We are sending students into long-term care facilities to interview seniors about their lives and put it down on paper for future generations," Dalziel said of the project. "They’ll ask about family traditions, special recipes, turning points in the senior’s life, favourite pets and get a snapshot of their lives.
"It also encourages inter-generational relationships and creates connection and friendship,” she said.
The stories, along with mementoes such as old letters, pieces of jewellery or photos will be compiled into a binder-style book which can be added to by family members over time.
The project has begun in south end Barrie and Innisfil and will expand to the rest of Barrie and Simcoe County by mid-summer.
“We are currently working on 30 memory books but we have had interests from hundreds of people to do more,” she said.
Anyone can sponsor a book for $100 and get special recognition inside the cover.
For more information, visit the Senior Wish Association page on Facebook or call 705-888-8333.
