The Garner Senior Center this morning welcomed Congresswoman Deborah Ross and other dignitaries—including the town's current representative in the U.S. House, Congressman Wiley Nickel—to announce that over $500,000 in federal funding has been awarded to the facility to make significant improvements and updates.

Congresswoman Ross, who was previously Garner's U.S. House representative, secured the funds as part of the FY 2023 federal budget.

As a result of the assistance, the popular Garner Senior Center, which has over 42,000 annual visits and hosts Meals on Wheels of Wake County's largest congregate meals program, will get security, HVAC and accessibility upgrades as well as renovations to the facility's kitchen and restrooms. A timeframe has not yet been set for undertaking and completing the improvements.

"The funding secured by Congresswoman Ross will help us make improvements to the facility so that we may continue to provide a space for our community’s older adults to enjoy the great quality of life that Garner is known for," Mayor Ken Marshburn said. "Congresswoman Ross, on behalf of the Town of Garner, please accept our most sincere thanks for this funding and for your continued support for our community."

Last spring, Congresswoman Ross also secured just over a million dollars in federal funding for a comprehensive rehabilitation of the Main Street-Rand Mill Road intersection as well as installation of 59 new paved parking spots in Downtown Garner.

More about the Garner Senior Center

The Garner Senior Center opened its doors in 1991 with the leadership of a group of Garner older adults who advocated and raised over $350,000 for its construction. The original building was expanded in 2006 to meet demand and provide space for the center's growing health and fitness programs.

Throughout its history, the center has been supported by numerous partners who are committed to ensuring a great quality of life for older adults in our community such as Resources for Seniors and Meals on Wheels.

The center offers multiple programs throughout the year, providing a safe and welcoming space for older adults to gather, exercise or practice a favorite athletic activity, practice painting or play a game of cards, and make new and lasting friendships.

From left: Council Member Kathy Behringer, Garner Senior Center manager Torrey Blackmar, Town Manager Rodney Dickerson, U.S. Rep. Wiley Nickel (13th District), U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross (2nd District), Mayor Ken Marshburn, Mayor Pro Tem Elmo Vance and Council Member Phil Matthews.