WESTLOCK – Local seniors gathered at the Westlock Memorial Hall on Thursday, Feb. 13 for a Valentine’s sweets session— a fun and interactive Valentines-themed baking event hosted by Westlock & District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
The sold-out event was held from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Westlock Memorial Hall, inviting 12 participants to spend the afternoon baking festive treats as part of FCSS' broader Help at Home for Seniors program. This was the first time FCSS put together this specific event, aiming to celebrate a different type of love for Valentine’s day— a love for community. By the end of the afternoon, each attendee left with a box of freshly baked goodies, ready to share with loved ones or enjoy on their own.
“It was a great way to spend the day,” said Maureen Schiller FCSS program coordinator, who oversaw the event. “There was lots of socialization, lots of laughter and they got to go home with some products that they made.”
FCSS help at home coordinator Kyli Ford assisted with the shopping, preparation and baking process, offering guidance and support to ensure everyone could participate, regardless of skill level or experience.
The session provided more than just instruction – it was a chance for attendees to engage in a shared activity while learning practical skills that will serve them long past Valentine’s Day. It was open to seniors of all backgrounds, with supplies and ingredients included in the $10 registration cost. Participants were then split into teams of four to bake various types of fudge and cookies.
Marguerite Punko, an avid baker, attended the session and expressed her enjoyment following the event. “It was really great. I would definitely go again,” she said, adding that it was a fun opportunity to connect with old friends and meet new ones.
The Valentine’s sweets session is just one of many initiatives FCSS hosts. It is an extension of the organizations' help at home for seniors, food prep initiative, which fosters both culinary skills and a sense of community through regular cooking sessions— empowering seniors to make healthier, homemade meals on their own, reducing dependency and improving quality of life.
For more information on upcoming events or to learn more about the help at home for seniors program, visit westlockfcss.com.
