FCSS hosting Seniors’ Expo in Coalhurst Oct. 2

Posted on September 26, 2025 by Sunny South News

By Garrett Simmons
FCSS Communications

Some seniors in rural areas throughout southern Alberta may not get many opportunities to get together and socialize with their peers.

Living in areas throughout the Barons-Eureka-Warner Family and Community Support Services coverage area, seniors often may feel a little isolated, with limited access to valuable information.

FCSS aims to solve both of those dilemmas with the Seniors’ Expo on Oct. 2, inside the Coalhurst Community Centre.

“It is all about helping people age well in community, to celebrate aging and to celebrate our rural seniors,” said Renee White, Senior Services Coordinator for FCSS.

The event will feature vendors and exhibitors, who aim to provide local seniors with information surrounding a wide variety of wellness services.

“The focus is on health and well being for seniors,” said White.

“Seniors can meet with them face to face, which is so nice, because sometimes calling can be a bit of a barrier. At the expo, they can ask their questions and get the answers right away.”

White added the expo will also provide vendors with a valuable opportunity to connect.

“It’s also a nice place for these service providers to meet each other, get to know each other, network and share a lot of resources for seniors as well.”

The expo will also feature two major presenters – the Alberta Health Advocates and a therapeutic drumming session.

“That will be an opportunity for seniors to learn strategies and make informed decisions about their health,” said White about the advocates.

The drumming will be an opportunity for seniors to have a little fun and try something new.

“It’s good for your brain, using both sides of the brain, for coordination and movement and for all the social, fun aspects,” said Becky Fitton, Community Services Supervisor for FCSS. “It’s also just helping them get a little bit out of their comfort zone too.”

Aside from presentations and vendors, seniors will be treated to free food and light refreshments, along with opportunities to win a variety of door prizes.

And if that’s not enough to get you excited about the expo – everything is free! Transportation will also be supplied, free of charge, for seniors in Coutts/Milk River/Warner area, through the Heritage Handibus, and through the Raymond Handibus and the Picture Butte Handibus.

“Even if you feel you don’t need that information right now, you may at some point, and it’s also a great way to see old friends, to connect with new friends and get to know more seniors in the rural areas and the other towns,” said White. “It’s a fun day and it’s a great way to get out and see other people.”

Those with questions about the event, or those looking for more details, are encouraged to contact White at 587-370-8518.