West Hartford 'Grandfriends' Bridge The Generation Gap

WEST HARTFORD, CT — A unique program at the West Hartford Public Library's Bishops Corner Library and Senior Center ensures that all participating seniors have a "grand" time with local youths.

The library this summer is hosting a program called "Grandfriends," a series of free events where local seniors and schoolchildren get together for various activities at the library, which is located at 15 Starkel Road.

"Grandfriends" is especially enjoyable for seniors who don't have grandchildren of their own or whose grandchildren live far away.

It's also beneficial for children who may not have grandparents in their lives, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of friendship with a more experienced generation.

The next "Grandfriends" event is on Monday, July 15, at the center.

There, seniors and their "grandfriends" will make no-bake treats in the facility kitchen from 11 a.m. to noon.

Though free, registration is required.

Other upcoming "Grandfriend" events are on July 29 (Bingo) and Aug. 20 (Music and Movement).

"This is an opportunity for school-age children and senior members of our community to come together to enjoy fun activities and make new friends of all ages," wrote the library in a statement.

Each program requires individual registration both for children and seniors. The programs are generally for children in grades first- to fifth-grade.

Seniors can register through the BC Senior Center at 860-561-7583. Children's parents can register their kids online via this link.