We’re excited to announce that CRC is taking an important step forward by becoming a dementia-friendly food pantry. This initiative will help us better serve community members who may be living with dementia while creating a more welcoming environment for everyone.
What Does This Mean?
CRC volunteers will receive specialized training based on the Dementia Friends program, learning how to recognize and support individuals with memory challenges. Dementia affects more than just memory—it can impact communication, decision-making, and completing everyday tasks. By understanding these challenges, we can provide more compassionate and effective assistance.
How We’re Preparing
CRC volunteers will learn simple but powerful techniques, including:
- Using clear, simple communication and speaking slowly
- Being patient when someone asks the same question repeatedly
- Offering choices rather than open-ended questions (“Would you like the red apples or green apples?” instead of “What kind of apples do you want?”)
- Maintaining eye contact and treating everyone with dignity and respect
- Understanding that confusion or frustration is part of the condition, not intentional behavior
Why This Matters
People with dementia and their caregivers are valuable members of our community who deserve support and understanding. By becoming dementia-friendly, we’re ensuring that everyone who visits our food pantry feels welcomed, respected, and able to access the resources they need with dignity.
Five Key Messages We’ll Remember:
- Dementia is not a normal part of aging
- It’s caused by brain diseases, most commonly Alzheimer’s
- It affects more than just memory
- People can have good quality of life with dementia
- There’s more to the person than their condition
This training represents our commitment to serving all community members with compassion and understanding. Together, we’re building a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
