According to Karon Weatherman, an account set aside to hold donations for a new Senior Citizens Building is slowly growing but still does not contain enough to begin the work. Plans for a new 8,000 square foot building have been drawn up which would allow space for a large meeting/dining area with attached storage space for tables and chairs, separate rooms for library, work outs, quilting and arts and crafts, as well as office space and restrooms. Plans also include a large kitchen, food storage area and pantry with attached mechanical room and bay for loading Meal-a Day meals. The 5,000 square footage of the current, outgrown building includes a garage/storage area.
The City of Sulphur Springs, which owns the Sr’s building, has made inquiries about the availability of funding through grants. Location for the building is yet to be determined. A committee is looking for donated land within the Sulphur Springs City Limits. Not to be deterred, Karon began a fundraising campaign of her own which includes donations from individuals and corporations, and from sales of a Celebrity Movie Calendar for 2018/2019. Calendar photography and layout skills were donated as well as talent, with local citizens as costumed actors posing on “movie-theme” sets. The twenty-four completed photos make up a large 24-month calendar which will sell for $20 each. Karon placed an initial order of calendars which should arrive during August 2017. She hopes to sell out promptly then place another order. These will make great Christmas gifts for anyone who has ever lived in Sulphur Springs or Hopkins County. Contact the Sr’s Center at 903-885-1661 to reserve your calendar.
So far, donations amount to almost $9,000. As of July 25, 2017 the fund held $8,911. Some donors are senior citizens who give a small set amount each month. Other larger donors are responsible for one-time gifts. Anyone may donate any amount, and donors are needed. Contact Director of the Seniors Center, Karon Weatherman, in person Monday through Friday, by mail at 150 MLK Drive in Sulphur Springs or by phone the Sr’s Center at 903-885-1661.
