“Sometimes, it’s not grand gestures that matter most; it’s sitting beside someone, holding their hand, sharing a song, or simply making them feel remembered.”
On Friday, 20 February 2026, the Outreach Committee had the wonderful privilege of visiting Lawrie Park Lodge in Lewisham. What began as a simple plan to join the residents for their morning tea blossomed into an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, music, and deep human connection.
A Community Connected
The visit was made possible through a special introduction by Cristopher Inocencio, husband of our Outreach Committee Deputy, Kristine Inocencio. We were warmly welcomed by Mrs Ronalyn Pacyod Macario, the Operations Manager, who guided our team throughout the morning.
The delegation was led by FWA Chairwoman Glyndell Belmonte, Membership Committee Lead Leilanie Indopia, and Outreach Committee Lead Lesley Laroche, alongside deputy Kristine Inocencio.
Lawrie Park Lodge is currently home to 16 residents—12 gentlemen and 4 ladies—ranging in age from 50 to 80 years old. For many of these individuals, our visit represented a vital link to the wider community, as most of them do not have family nearby.
More Than Just a Visit
While our initial goal was to bring a little joy to the daily routine, the atmosphere transformed the moment the music started. Despite the challenges they may face, the residents showed incredible spirit; most were highly engaged, able to follow instructions, and eager to participate in activities.
It was the residents themselves who took the lead, specifically requesting to sing and dance with our team. Our “simple” tea-time visit quickly evolved into a lively, rhythmic celebration. Seeing their faces light up as we shared those melodies was a powerful reminder of how impactful presence can be, especially for those who may feel isolated.
A Two-Way Blessing
The room was filled with more than just music; it was filled with stories. Between the songs, our leads and members spent time sitting with the residents, listening to their experiences and sharing in their warmth.
The impact of the visit was felt deeply by everyone involved. As much as the residents appreciated the company—with many already asking when we would be returning—our committee members felt equally blessed. We walked away with our hearts full, touched by the resilience, humour, and kindness of the Lawrie Park Lodge community.
One of our members reflected on the day:
“Serving the community is not just an act of kindness; it is a gift that enriches everyone involved. We went there to give, but we ended up receiving so much more in return.”
Join Our Mission
This visit is a core part of what the Outreach Committee stands for: fostering connection and ensuring that no member of our community feels forgotten. Whether through a song, a dance, or a quiet conversation, we are committed to being present for those who need it most.
Stay Connected To see more photos and videos from our morning at Lawrie Park Lodge, visit our Facebook page.
Are you interested in getting involved with our future outreach projects? Get in touch with us today to find out how you can help make a difference in our local community.