Teens giving back to senior citizens
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — According to Bureau of Justice statistics, 59 percent of seniors were victims of violence when they when they were attacked in their own home. That disturbing percentage has some seniors a little more watchful.
This month, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department responded to a call where a 74-year-old had her front door kicked in. Officers also reported to a house where an 81-year-old woman was robbed in broad daylight.
Recently 24-Hour News 8 learned that a local church called The Way Church is teaching teens to give back to seniors in our community.
Once a week, a group of teens will cut the lawns and trim the bushes of elderly. The yard work detail comes at no cost to the seniors. In return, the church pays the teens for their services.
“It makes me feel good. I have people in my family that are seniors. It makes me feel good to know someone is helping them,” said Jovan, one of the teens helping.
In addition to helping the elderly, the teens receiving job training, and they listen to guest speakers from various professions.
“I believe we are sowing a seed in our young people. So as they sow a seed in caring for seniors, then when they become seniors someone will sow a seed back into them,” said Pastor Rickey McCray.
If you would like to learn more about The Way Church and their summer program, log onto their website or call 317-541-9100.