Three area senior community centers will receive nearly $8,500 as part of the state's 2014-15 Senior Community Center Grant Awards.

State Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) recently announced that the senior community centers in Palmerton, Panther Valley, and Weatherly are the recipients of the state grants.The money will provide opportunities for centers to modernize, encourage technology improvements, expand innovative programming and meet the needs of their participants.The Palmerton Senior Center, located at 501 Delaware Ave. in Palmerton, was awarded $2,750 to purchase a 60-inch HD Smart TV and mounting brackets to hang it from the wall.This will allow older Pennsylvanians to watch exercise videos and movies.The funds will also be used to purchase a Wii System and various Wii accessories and games, allowing visitors to exercise their minds and body.Because of these upgrades, the center will remain a focal point in the community for health and wellness activities.As a result, local residents will be empowered to remain in their communities where they can age and live well.The Panther Valley Senior Center, located at 90 E Catawissa St. in Nesquehoning, was awarded $4,500 to buy a portable PA system, large screen TV, exercise DVDs and exercise equipment.A portable PA system would greatly encourage visitors to participate in the activities and make it easier to hear speakers and presenters.The large screen TV will enable a larger group of senior citizens to view and participate in activities and programs designed to keep them active and enhance their health.Because of the renovations, the center will remain as a focal point in the community, empowering local residents to remain in their communities where they can age and live well.The Weatherly Area Senior Center, located at 335 Third St. in Weatherly, was awarded $1,200 to install a large-screen TV supported by exercise DVDs including Tai Chi, yoga and dance titles.As a result, the center will create a program that helps older Pennsylvanians stay physically fit and active.The technology enhancements will also provide educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.This ensures that the center will remain a focal point for health and wellness activities, empowering local residents to remain in their communities where they can age and live well.Secretary of Aging Brian Duke announced last week that the 2014-15 Senior Community Center Grants will provide $2 million to senior community centers to 67 centers across the Commonwealth.Pennsylvania has 550 senior community centers that offer a wide variety of programs and services that may include: Health and wellness, nutritious meal programs, enrichment programs, educational opportunities, transportation services, financial and insurance counseling, and social and recreational activities.In addition, centers serve as a resource for older adults to obtain information on department programs and services that promote health and independence.