Scholarship supports education goals of H.J. McFarland staff member

Garry Lynch and Joy Vervoort (far left), Jean Lynch’s children, present Janine Caldwell (middle) with the scholarship. They are joined by Mayor Steve Ferguson, Natasha Williams, Acting Administrator at H.J. McFarland Memorial Home, and Robert McAuley, Acting CAO for the County of Prince Edward.

Janine Caldwell, a staff member at H.J. McFarland Memorial Home for the past six years, accepted the 2019 Jean Lynch Scholarship Award, Wednesday.

Lynch was a resident at the home for nine years. Her family established a scholarship in her honour after her death in 2016. The $1,000 scholarship is open to employees of the home, their children, or grandchildren who are pursuing post-secondary education.

Caldwell has worked as an activity aide at H.J. McFarland for the past 18 months. She has also served as a personal support worker and housekeeper at the County-run long-term care home. She is enrolled in the recreation and leisure program at Candor College.

“I had the opportunity to work with Jean Lynch, and I feel honoured the family chose me to receive the scholarship,” she said. “Thanks to the award, I will be able to focus on my education, rather than worrying how I will be able to afford it.”

Natasha Williams, Acting Administrator, said Caldwell is a deserving recipient of the award.

“Janine always conducts herself professionally. She is polite and courteous to residents, staff, families and visitors,” Williams said. “Janine is creative when it comes to planning social activities, and she is always willing to collaborate with her peers to advance new ideas.”

Jean Lynch’s daughters Joy Vervoort and Ann Trick, along with Ann’s husband David, established the scholarship to give back to the staff of H.J. McFarland for the loving care they provided Jean for many years.