Thorhild Drop-In Centre gets a face lift and launches floor curling program

By Brandie Majeau
The Thorhild Drop-In Centre is thrilled to unveil the completion of extensive
renovations and announce ongoing improvements that will continue to enhance the
community hub. Generously funded by the New Horizons for Seniors Program
(NHSP)—a federal grant aimed at supporting community-based projects—the Thorhild
Drop-In Centre received a remarkable $25,000. The NHSP funding is dedicated to
initiating transformative projects that significantly enrich the lives of seniors and their
neighborhoods.
Energetic volunteers at the Thorhild Drop-In Centre sprang into action, diligently
installing new drywall throughout the facility. One of the standout achievements from
their hard work was the renovation and modernization of the bathrooms, making them
not only up to date but fully accessible to all patrons. In addition to the NHSP funding,
Waste Management generously contributed $5,000, alongside other private donations,
to illuminate the centre with energy-efficient LED lighting and additional fixtures. The
funds were also used to acquire new chairs, replacing outdated ones, which were
subsequently sold off, while any remaining furniture was thoughtfully donated to a local
charity.
In an impressive show of community support, the Feledichuk Curran Memorial
Ball Tournament provided a substantial donation of $12,000. This funding has gone
towards refinishing countertops and enhancing the kitchen area, which is currently
undergoing an extensive renovation. Though not all of these funds have been utilized,
they are earmarked for new stoves, a backsplash, and curtains. Discussions are
actively taking place to determine the best allocation for these resources to fulfill the
building’s most critical needs.
With the excitement surrounding the newly refurbished facility, a surge of creative
ideas are bubbling up. Thorhild Drop-In Centre now boasts a state-of-the-art television
and speaker system (purchased with funds from Thorhild Co-op BBQs), a free three-
year contract with MCSNet, and a diverse selection of games, all of which make it an
ideal venue for a wide range of events. The dedicated volunteers are eagerly
brainstorming new ways to expand what it can offer and create more activities within the
community.
One new upcoming program is Floor Curling. Members discussing the building
and its previous role as a hub of entertainment remarked, “It’s here, we gotta use it!”
They have been digging through back rooms and looking at ways to revisit some old
favourite programs. The momentum is palpable, as they prepare to welcome

everyone—members and non-members alike—on December 3 at 1 PM for a floor
curling meet and greet. This event will provide a platform for the community to voice its
aspirations for the facility’s future endeavors and an introduction to floor curling. The
floor curling program, designed as a drop-in activity, is poised to evolve as interest
grows. The space is being carefully prepped and painted, salvaged curling stones from
previous generations are being lovingly oiled, new curling sticks have been acquired,
and a generous scoreboard donation from Redwater Floor Curling is set to elevate the
experience. All that’s needed now are the enthusiastic players to join in on the fun!