Whittier Constructs Senior Center

For the past thirteen years, the 200-member Parnell Senior Citizens Group dreamt of a permanent facility to replace their temporary quarters in Whittier's Parnell Park. On March 18, 2006, they saw that dream fulfilled as the City dedicated the new 14,000 square-foot Community and Senior Center. Over 250 people participated in the dedication ceremony.

The City of Whittier spent a total of $4.7 million to construct the Center. A combination of Federal, State and County funds was used to complete the project. The City committed over $800,000 of its allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Los Angeles County contributed an additional $137,000 from its own CDBG funds for the project. Metropolitan cities and urban counties receive annual allocations of CDBG funds through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Half of the Center has been set aside exclusively for senior center programs and activities. The large "Walnut Room" can accommodate 250 for banquets and 270 for assemblies. In addition, there are meeting rooms, a game room, a kitchen, a satellite library and an art gallery. The facility will help seniors learn new skills. It also provides a safe and comfortable place where they can socialize with their friends.

###