Deptford council is inviting residents 85 and up and their families to the over 85 birthday luncheon from noon to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Auletto Caterers.
The free event honors some of Deptford’s oldest residents, many of whom have lived in the township for decades, according to Mayor Paul Medany.
“Many of these people have spent most of their lives in Deptford and have seen it grow from farms into what it is now,” he said.
Medany and other members of council are expected to be on hand to interact with luncheon participants, whose invitations to the event will be required for entry. The luncheon will also be a birthday celebration for some over 85 residents who will receive gifts.
The township is expecting about 400 people to attend. Past luncheons have featured World War II veterans, and last year, it honored a townshiop centenarian.
“Last year, we had someone who was 103 years old attend,” Medany recalled. ” … It’s important to celebrate our seniors. They’re on a fixed income, so it’s nice to provide an event for them.”
Deptford hosts a variety of events for senior citizens throughout the year, including monthly Bingo activities and the annual Senior Summer Fun Day. Along with the over 85 lunch, the activities are a way to honor seniors and the town.
“It provides people with an opportunity to give back to seniors and what they’ve done for the community,” Medany noted of the luncheon. “It is a celebration of these people and a celebration of life in Deptford Township.”