Parsonage Cottage Senior Residence recently hit a milestone for which they have been waiting almost two years. In the fall of 2021, Parsonage Cottage launched a fundraising campaign to replace their nearly 20-year-old van. The community responded generously to their request for support, but supply-chain challenges provided an unwanted obstacle. Nonetheless, Penny Lore, Executive Director of Parsonage, would not give up on securing new, accessible transportation for the residents to partake in external activities. “Our aging van needed to be replaced, and we are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support from the Greenwich community to make our request a reality,” said Lore.
The staff at Parsonage prides itself on doing its best to give the residents what they need, including being engaged in the community through “field trips” off-grounds. “We want to be able to take them to the beach, Greenwich Avenue, the doctor’s office, church, and productions performed by students at Greenwich Country Day, as a few examples,” stated Lore.
Parsonage Cottage, a division of Greenwich Communities, raised over $65,000 in their van campaign thanks to the support of local businesses and residents. Early in the campaign, a philanthropic Greenwich family, who want to remain anonymous, donated $25,000 in honor of their mother, who had recently passed. Another significant contribution came from The Resource Foundation, which supported the fundraising effort with a $10,000 gift. Alison Allen, Resource Foundation’s Managing Director, said that at the time of their donation, they have always been impressed with how Parsonage cares for its residents. When she heard about their need, she said, “It is only natural to want to support this effort. What can be more basic than supporting our seniors and giving them the best quality of life.”
Other businesses and residents who leaned in generously include McArdle’s Floral & Garden Design, J.McLaughlin, Emboss, LLC, and medical spa Beyond Beautiful by Melissa. “It was more than just individuals who understood the importance of external engagement for our seniors and the local business community. When small businesses like Beyond Beautiful by Melissa lean in and give back, it is an excellent example of what makes Greenwich an exceptional place to live,” said Lore.
The youth in Town also participated in the cause. Lore expressed gratitude for the Parsonage Cottage Junior Advisory Boards, one comprised of high school students and the other of 8th graders, whose support has significantly impacted the residents, especially during the pandemic. Parsonage Cottage Junior Advisory Boards have been planning and running events at the Cottage over the last few years, such as a mini-golf Tee Party fundraiser in June and the Parsonage Cottage Holiday Parade and Gift Delivery in December.
In October, Parsonage Cottage took delivery on a brand-new Mercedes Sprinter van. Since then, their field trips have included lunch on Greenwich Avenue and a lucky day at Mohegan Sun. “Being able to visit all the wonderful parts of Greenwich and beyond, to interact with new people, and just to get a change of scenery makes a regular day something special,” said Les Russo, a Parsonage Resident for over ten years.
To learn more about Parsonage Cottage Senior Residence, please visit https://www.parsonagecottage.org
