PHILIPSBURG:--- The Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs (CDFHA) has successfully concluded the last cohort of the SMART Tech program for the Elderly. A total of 18 elderly students, all members of the Helping Hands Foundation and Hearts United Holistic Foundation, completed the three-month program.
During the certificate ceremony, the students celebrated their achievements through poetry by Ms Veronica Hazel and Ms. Lilian Gumbs, singing by members of Hearts United Holistic Foundation members, and sharing heartfelt stories about their experiences in the program. They expressed gratitude for the initiative, which has empowered them with knowledge on using both computers and smartphones for various purposes.
Recognizing the importance of inclusion in a rapidly digitalizing world, CDFHA collaborated with CIFSEF and developed the SMART Tech Program specifically for the elderly to ensure no one is left behind. Over 40 elderly individuals have benefitted from this initiative, which aims to bridge the digital divide.
The certificate ceremony, held to celebrate the participants' accomplishments, was graced by the presence of Minister Jansen-Webster, who commended the students, facilitators, MC Ms. Shobhan Giterson, and CDFHA staff. "Initiatives like these are truly remarkable as they continue to include and empower the elderly—the pioneers who paved the way for us," remarked the Minister.
The program was facilitated by CIFSEF, led by Ms. Berkel, with support from two remarkable assistants, Ms. Mary Toussaint and Ms. Bernadette York who themselves are seniors, adding a unique touch to the initiative.
CDFHA remains committed to creating programs that promote inclusion and empowerment for all members of the community,
