Connect55+ Residents Donate Nearly 8,000 Canned Goods to Support Local Food Pantries
Senior living communities aren’t just about comfortable homes and engaging activities—they’re also about making a difference. This year, Connect55+ residents once again proved that active adult communities thrive on generosity and community spirit by donating nearly 8,000 canned goods to local food pantries through the annual Connect55+ Can Competition.
A Tradition of Giving in Senior Housing Communities
Each February, Connect55+ communities across the Northeast and Midwest come together for this friendly competition that encourages residents to collect and donate canned goods for local food banks and charities. The event, organized by the Calamar Foundation, not only provides essential resources to those in need but also fosters camaraderie and creativity among residents.
This year, 22 Connect55+ communities participated, collecting an incredible 7,903 cans for donation. Each community selected a local food bank or charity to receive the contributions, ensuring that the donations directly benefited their neighborhoods.
Creativity and Community Spirit in Senior Living
Beyond the act of giving, residents took things a step further by turning their donated cans into unique and eye-catching displays. From intricate towers to fun-themed structures, the competition showcased the creativity and teamwork that make senior housing communities so special.
“Our residents always go above and beyond to give back, and this year was no exception,” said Gay Molnar, President of the Calamar Foundation. “This competition is a fun and meaningful way for our communities to come together while making a real impact.”
And the Winner Is…
Each year, corporate staff at Connect55+ headquarters in Wheatfield, NY select a winner based on the most creative canned good structure. For 2025, the Bedford community took the top prize with their impressive “Daisy Duck” display, collecting a record-breaking 2,600 cans!
Winning Entry for the 2025 Can Competition at Connect55+ Bedford
The Impact of Active Adult Communities on Local Charities
This competition is more than just a friendly challenge—it’s a testament to the power of senior living communities to make a difference. By participating in initiatives like the Can Competition, residents of active adult housing show their commitment to giving back while strengthening bonds with their neighbors.
Through the efforts of Connect55+ residents and the Calamar Foundation, local food banks received much-needed resources to support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. The event is a shining example of how senior housing communities can be hubs of generosity, creativity, and social engagement.
Join a Community That Cares
At Connect55+, we believe that senior living should be more than just a place to live—it should be a place to thrive. Our independent senior housing communities offer a vibrant lifestyle, with pet-friendly amenities, social events, and wellness programs designed to keep residents engaged and active.
About Connect55+ and the Calamar Foundation
Connect55+ provides amenity-rich senior housing for active adults seeking independent living options. Our communities are designed for engagement, with social activities, wellness programs, and modern accommodations.
The Calamar Foundation supports charitable initiatives benefiting the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, and the Alzheimer’s Association. Through events like the Can Competition, Connect55+ residents play a vital role in giving back to their local communities.
Looking for a senior living community that prioritizes connection, creativity, and community impact? Explore Connect55+ today!
