Local Farmer and Garden Club Team Up to Bring Cheer to Suffield House Residents
For many years, volunteers from the Suffield Garden Club have met with residents of local nursing homes and assisted living facilities to create colorful flower arrangements together.
All Photos by Lisa Parker
Volunteers help participants arrange flowers into fresh bouquets that they can bring back to their rooms or put on their dining tables. “This is one of our most popular programs,” commented Suffield House Director Scott Emmons. “Residents look forward to it all week long!”
On August 13, the volunteers were thrilled to be joined by Julie Harrison from West Suffield’s own Willow View Farm. “We were so lucky to have Julie join us this week,” commented one long-time volunteer. “Her beautiful flowers and natural enthusiasm made the morning even more delightful.” Harrison was equally enthusiastic. “It brings me great joy to share my flowers with people,” she said. “This year the dahlias are so abundant and so colorful. Everyone was smiling, including me.” It’s no wonder that the slogan on Julie’s delivery van reads “Happiness Blooms Here.”
The Suffield Garden Club has been hosting their Garden Therapy program for decades, and prior to the pandemic were active at Parkway Pavilion in Enfield and the Suffield House. Emmons was quick to invite the program to return once it was safe to gather. He even contributes flowers from his own yard.
“We source flowers and greens wherever we can,” said Garden Therapy Chair Sally Peters. “We purchase from wholesalers and retailers at times, but at this time of year our own gardens yield the best blooms.”
“Floral arranging is much more than putting flowers in a vase,” added Emmons. “Horticultural therapy harnesses the therapeutic benefits of nature, offering a unique way to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being.”
Garden Therapy volunteer Erin Calender brings her two young daughters when they’re not in school. “They love to help, and It’s good for them to learn the importance of giving time and talent to those who need it,” said Calender.
Willow View Farm is located 1321 Sheldon St. West Suffield. Visit their floral shop or visit them online via Facebook and Instagram or at juliesharrison.com.
The Suffield Garden Club, organized in 1934, is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the natural environment as well as the beautification of Suffield. New members are welcome! To become a volunteer, donate fresh flowers, or see the wide range of SGC activities, visit www.SuffieldGardenClub.org