Children bring joy to elderly residents

Intergenerational solidarity was heightened yesterday when the elderly residents of St Vincent de Paul Residence were treated to a play by schoolchildren.

The performance by the eight- to 10-year-old pupils of the St Thomas More Żejtun primary school was held to celebrate the European Day of Solidarity between Generations and saw over 200 elderly from other government homes enjoying the company - and buzz - of the children.

"When the elderly meet kids, their morale is immediately lifted. Being around them is such a pleasure and that is what made this activity special," said SVPR planning manager James Carabott.

The residents could enjoy several daily activities because they had many in-house facilities and outings organised but not many were related to children, which gave them the greatest joy of all, he said.

The musical sketch, Pipa Tabakk, written by Trevor Zahra, with musical adaptation by Andrew Zahra, was performed in the home's theatre, sending the message that smoking is a health hazard.

Pupils reversed roles, acting as the elderly, advising children not to smoke.

The story involves a group of children who find a pipe while playing in a field. Out of curiosity, they end up smoking it but when their grandparents get to know, they do their best to teach them a life lesson.