Welcome to The Newsfeed.

We're here in Everett to share how one local senior center is prioritizing community among Black elders to combat isolation and foster connection.

Inside the Carl Gipson Senior Center, this group of Black seniors are busy wrapping up their lunch.

Every Tuesday they gather to share meals, fellowship, and participate in activities through a curation of culturally specific programs.

Organized by Homage Senior Services.

84 year old Emma Nuckles has been with the group since its beginning three years ago.

She says she's the only Black person in her senior living building.

-There's not very many of us.

And being sheltered and in home, most of our lives, especially when we get to the age we are and not seeing people like us.

And to be able to come out and meet and do activities together, and to reminisce about old times and recipes and children and grandchildren, you know, and it's just good to get out of the house.

-Carl Gipson staff say the 60 plus age group is the highest growing population in Snohomish County.

They say many seniors face isolation, which leads to increased rates of dementia.

-The elders, they're sitting or they're just at the grocery store by themselves, not really shopping, but just walking to get out of the house.

I wish that everyone knew that there are programs such as this.

-For the last year, elder advocate Shree Smith has led the group and is intentional about the effort she puts in.

-I have some members that are consistent.

I don't care if it's raining snowing.

They are here and I want to make it worth their while.

-I'm Paris Jackson, thank you for watching The Newsfeed, your destination for nonprofit Northwest News.

Go to CascadePBS.org for more.