Bridging Generations Through Senior Tea

Inspired by a beloved school tradition that paused during the pandemic, Grade 12 students Meron and Camryn brought Senior Tea back to life—an intergenerational event connecting local high school students with seniors from long-term care homes through conversation, games, and shared joy.

Held on May 1, 2025, at the Kitchener Public Library's Stanley Park branch, Senior Tea welcomed nearly 50 seniors from Fairview Seniors Community, Highland Place, and Sunnyside.

With support from the Youth Creativity Fund, Meron and Camryn created a warm, welcoming space filled with light refreshments, trivia, bingo, music, and thoughtful conversation starters. A photo booth and handmade greeting cards from fellow students added a personal touch.

Planning the event taught the pair valuable skills in time management, teamwork, budgeting, and thinking on their feet.

As Meron reflected, “There were so many positive comments from both sides about how much they enjoyed the time to have conversations and play activities.”

Despite unexpected challenges like last-minute seating changes and early arrivals, they handled the day with care and calm.

The impact was deeply felt—seniors left smiling, students left inspired, and the school community was reminded of the power of connection.

With leftover funds, Meron and Camryn hope to make Senior Tea an annual tradition once again. “Programs like this give a space for youth to explore their ideas and improve skills like entrepreneurship and public relations. I feel more confident and more likely to pursue another idea in the future.”