Local leaders and citizens gathered at the Helping Hands Bible Ministry this week to celebrate

&uot;Adopt-A-Senior Citizen&uot; day. The event was part of a campaign to ask businesses and individuals to donate at least $50 towards providing low-income seniors with needed supplies and medical care.

Guests at the event were treated to a late-morning brunch, followed by presentations and inspirational music led by the Helping Hands Praise Team.

Mayor James Perkins Jr. was on hand with a proclamation from the city declaring Sept. 9, 2003, as &uot;Adopt-A-Senior Citizen Day&uot; for the entire city of Selma.

U.S. Rep. Artur Davis, D-Birmingham, sent two of his representatives to the gathering as a way of showing his support for the charitable organization.

Little went on to tell the seniors in attendance that Davis’ office was open to them and can work with them to provide help.

City Councilwoman Nancy Sewell also attended the program, which was sponsored by the Senior CARE ministry, to say that the council has also adopted several seniors for this cause.

Hawkins said contributions to Senior CARE Ministries will go towards providing food and personal hygiene items, educational activities, and social programs for those seniors who live on a fixed income.

Hawkins said a $50 donation will provide for at least five seniors for a year.

Senior CARE Ministries was created in 2000 for seniors age 55 and over who live in and around Selma.

The group meets the second Tuesday of every month at Helping Hands, which is located at 1500 Woodrow Avenue East.

To send a donation, contact Senior CARE Ministries at 875-9978.