A new group is meeting monthly at the Nanaimo Legion branch on East Wellington Rd., to combat social isolation challenges. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

social connection

Nanaimo group combatting social isolation among seniors, those with diversabilities

Mar 1, 2025 | 6:04 PM

NANAIMO — Seeing a growing void in opportunities for seniors, veterans and people with diversabilities to get out into the community and socialize, a local man is taking a step towards addressing the issue.

Craig McCarthy used his connections through several local organizations to plan and host an afternoon of refreshments and activities at the Royal Canadian Legion Mt Benson Branch 256 on East Wellington Rd., between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 2.

McCarthy told NanaimoNewsNOW there are precious few social opportunities for some in the community, especially after the bowling alley closed in 2024.

“The whole concept is that for people to come on a Sunday and feel comfortable, to come in and just socialize with friends, companions, and do various activities that we have planned.”

McCarthy said the monthly get-together is done in partnership with the Nanaimo Association for Community Living.

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Karaoke, pool, card games and more are planned as the group grows in the coming months.

He added the Legion is donating the space in their main area.

“If this gets enough groundswell support, maybe I can put the press on something like ClayTree Society or Nanaimo Association for Community Living too, if their facility is not being used for Sunday, then a second Sunday or third Sunday, a month could be added in a different location.”

Anyone interested in more information on the events can email br256outreach@gmail.com.

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