WATSONVILLE — Dozens of people gathered in the Watsonville Senior Center Monday, some playing cards and others simply sitting and socializing as they waited for lunch.
That is a daily scene at the center, which hosts an average of 100 seniors who come for a meal, companionship or to take advantage of several services offered on the site.
This includes help with paperwork, legal services and tax assistance, among others. The center also offers counseling services.
The senior center offers bingo on Tuesdays, in addition to ESL and art classes, bake sales and free haircuts.
“It’s a one-stop spot for everyone,” said Executive Director Valerie Rivera. “There’s a lot that happens here.”
A community hub for the senior community, the center is showing its age.
It is currently getting its first renovation in several decades by the City of Watsonville, with new bathrooms, parking lot, and ADA-compliant handrails and door handles.
Funded by a Community Development Block Grant, the $160,000 project is nearing completion.
But the grant money funding does not cover every repair the center needs, Rivera said.
Organizers still hope to give the center a visual upgrade, with a new paint job for the dining room, multi-purpose room and in the hallway leading to the bathroom.
And that, Rivera said, will take donations from the community.
“This is the first time since I’ve been here that we have done a major renovation,” she said.
The senior center is accepting donations of paint and other supplies. Cash donations are also welcome. To donate, or for information, call 722-1333.
