On 30 May, everyone at Greenwood Cottage came together for a morning tea to celebrate a very special birthday – Elena’s 90th. Her husband, daughters and a few close friends also joined in to help mark the occasion.  

Elena moved to Australia from the Philippines back in 1968 to join her husband, who was already working here. They settled in Rockdale, in Sydney’s south, and bought their first home – which they still live in today. Elena worked hard to help support the family, first at the local hospital and then at Telstra, until she retired at 52. 

She’s the youngest of 11 siblings and now has a big family of her own, with 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and even one great-great-grandchild. 

Elena smiling with her cake

Elena is well-loved by the team and other clients at Greenwood Cottage. “She’s not just a client – she’s a friend, and it meant a lot to everyone to be able to celebrate this milestone with her,” said Support Coordinator, Cherie Damoulakis. 

Greenwood Cottage, a local program run by The Benevolent Society, provides social support and respite services for older people – from age 65, or 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients. It’s open four days a week – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday – and offers a friendly place where people can connect with others in the local community. 

There’s always something going on, from games and crafts to music, gentle exercise, outings and group chats. Meals and transport are available too, for a small cost. Everything is run by a supportive and experienced team who make sure everyone feels welcome and safe. 

“Elena’s birthday was a lovely reminder of what Greenwood Cottage is all about – people coming together, sharing stories and enjoying good company,” Cherie added.  

Learn more about Greenwood Cottage and how you can get involved.