Gold Plate turns '40': May is Older Americans Month
Forty years ago one of the most valuable programs in the community was begun in the basement of the old American Legion hall on North Mulberry Street -- the Perry County Gold Plate program.
The celebration of its 40 years anchors this year's observance of Older Americans Month during May.
The observance began on Friday with a balloon launch on the parking lot at the program's home on North Hickory Street and a proclamation presented to the staff by Mayor Rex Duncan and city administrator Brad Myers.
As part of the celebration's launch, clients in the adult day service program baked over 30 dozen cookies, many of them taken to the Du Quoin Police and Fire Departments as a "thank you" for the service and caring they provide.
Helen Mossa and Edd Mazure were crowned king and queen over the observance.
Clients will celebrate the month with trips to the movies, lunch at Pizza Hut, local artists speaking, a Mother's Day breakfast, and a Cinco de Mayo observance. A picnic day will be held May 22 with a raffle on ay 29.
Humble Beginnings
Gold Plate provides services for seniors age 60 and over.
"Our program started in the basement of the old American Legion in 1975 with five employees," said Debbie Heck.
Connie Armstrong was the first director, followed by Hilda Higgerson.
"HIlda purchased our present location, the Davis Inn restaurant, in 1979. Hilda was still very much involved with Gold Plate, serving as a board member until her death in 2013," Debbie said.
The Illinois Department of Aging provided a measure of support starting in 1982.
The current director is Tammy Asbury and the board president is Marvin Juhl.
Every month the program serves 800 residents across the county with 1,100 meals. Gold Plate also hosts adult day services with baking, trivia, games, puzzles, bingo and crafts. Gold plate also provides transportation to and from doctor's appointments and shopping. The outreach department assists with medicare medicaid, parenting, secretary of state programs and many more services. Anyone with questions or needs assistance can call Gold Plate at 542-3511 for more information.