Preparing seniors for storms gets Gold Award

Jordyn Mannino of Nassau County Girl Scout Troop 527 delivered a program on storm preparedness to senior citizens living in the Oceanside community and surrounding areas for her Girl Scout Gold Award in August.

Not being prepared for weather emergencies is a major issue for senior citizens living in this community.  The ability to withstand devastating effects of a storm depends on how well one is prepared. Providing the storm preparedness education helps seniors protect themselves.

Weekly presentations consisted of a series of information sessions followed by games, such as “Supplies Kit Bingo”, “Disaster Plan Bingo”, and “Final Prepardy.” The games served as a fun way to reinforce learning. 

Each week over 60 senior citizens attended and won prizes that would later be part of their emergency “go kit.” Every participating senior went home with an information packet, in case of emergency (ICE) contact card, and a backpack containing items that would be useful during a weather emergency such as, a flashlight, extra batteries, first aid kit, nonperishable food items, and trash bags. The two Stop and Shop stores in Oceanside; Trader Joe’s in Oceanside; and Path Mark in East Rockaway donated many “go kit” items. Dr. Geraldine Moore of Molloy College served as project advisor; Mary Ellen Kwiecinski, Linda Pellicane, and Barbra Magoolaghan of Catholic Charities Oceanside Senior Community Service Center were support staff.