JUST like any private organisation, Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home, located at Tucville, Georgetown, goes out of its way to ensure the residents of the facility have a good festive season. This year is no different, with plans underway to provide all the traditional Guyanese foods on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, respectively.

Interim Administrator and Committee Member Christine Hales told Pepperpot Magazine that she oversees the daily operations at Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home. She has been a member of the Georgetown Durban Park Lions Club for over 22 years and became associated with the Home shortly after joining the Lions Club.

As is customary, the Home accepts donations and tokens from corporate Guyana, private groups, and citizens to lift the spirits of its residents. Hales added that from the beginning of December, the tone for the season is set by decorating the facility with Christmas trees, garlands, festive holiday wreaths, and fairy lights decking the halls.

Decorating the Home is an annual event usually undertaken by the Lions Club of Durban Park, although this year, it was done by the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central. During this period, the residents are engaged with indoor games such as dominoes and cards, Christmas music, and sports on television.

Hales disclosed that church groups, children, organisations, and others visit the Home to host concerts during Christmas time. These visitors put on shows, sing carols, and spread cheer, bringing smiles to the faces of the residents. She explained that children from several schools visit and spend quality time interacting with the residents.

“Our residents enjoy meeting and interacting with young people who spend quality time with each of them,” she said.
Hales reported that the meals on Christmas Day and Boxing Day are specially selected so the residents can enjoy all the traditional festive goodies. The annual party for the residents was held on December 19.

She highlighted that recent renovations to the facility have brightened the space, creating a positive impact for the residents. The Committee of Management of the Home expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central and their donors for making it happen.

However, Ms. Hales noted that two of the buildings are in disrepair, and the committee is discussing ways to restore them. Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home currently accommodates 20 residents, comprising 15 men and five women. A condition for entry into the Home is that potential residents should be reasonably able-bodied, with a medical report required upon admission. As the Home is not a nursing facility, residents must be able to perform basic tasks with staff support and supervision.

Residents are required to pay a monthly fee, which covers their meals, care, and accommodation. Relatives and family members are encouraged to visit and spend time with them as often as they wish.

The oldest resident, a male who celebrated his 90th birthday in May this year, is visually impaired but still mobile. The facility is privately managed by a board of directors.
Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Home will celebrate its 50th anniversary in February 2025, coinciding with the anniversary of its first resident’s move-in. Hales stated that donations are always welcome to assist with the Home’s upkeep, as much work remains to be done.

The Home was officially opened on February 26 1975, by its visionary founder, overseas-based Guyanese Mr. Edward Holford, known as “Uncle Eddie,” who sadly passed away shortly after its opening. Ms. Ivy Edghill was the first resident to move in on June 20 1975.