In 2024, MAC received a grant from the Ontario Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility to develop and deliver the Seniors Arts and Music Series (SAMS). Over 5 months, this pilot program provided free in-person entertainment and creative experiences for residents of long-term care and retirement homes in Mississauga. From concerts to visual art sessions, singing classes, drumming circles, and even dance/movement workshops – SAMS enriched the lives of seniors in 9 long-term care facilities in Mississauga, hired 40 local professional artists, and changed lives.
(Image – top left: Denise Leslie performing a jazz duo concert for SAMS. Image – top right: artwork from a visual art class through SAMS. Image – bottom left: Sam from drumIN posing with the SAMS poster after his drum workshop for SAMS. Image – bottom right: Cat Bernardi performing a SAMS concert for an engaged audience.)
What the long-term care homes are saying:
“Thank you and MAC again so very much for arranging the workshop – it was such a treat for my clients, and it was so beautiful to see their enthusiasm (and pride in their work!)… It means so very much to me to be able to provide my clients with such impactful experiences. The SAMS project is truly wonderful.”
– Hospice Mississauga
“Participants raved about how wonderful and helpful the first singing class was. There were 30 seniors in attendance, and many commented they can’t wait for the next class!”
– Active Adult Centre of Mississauga
“Our residents have greatly
appreciated SAMS activities, which have significantly enhanced their daily experiences allowing for full participation among all residents. These activities not only foster engagement but also bring joy to the lives of our residents.”
– Constitution Place
The SAMS pilot project was supported through a generous grant from the Ontario Government.
Thank you to our generous SAMS sponsors, enabling us to enrich the lives of seniors.
SAMS is produced by the Mississauga Arts Council in partnership with Entertainment Unlimited.
