Where Community Gathers, Grows, and Dines
For nearly three decades, the Sayre Senior Citizens Center has been a cornerstone of connection and care in Beckham County. Led by longtime site director Karen Sanders, the Center welcomes seniors from across town for hot meals, laughter, and a sense of belonging that can be hard to find elsewhere.
Karen Sanders started at the Center 28 years ago, when it was located on East Main— now the bail bonds building, right beside the courthouse. “We used to have dances at the old building,” she remembers, “and it was always full of energy and music.” The Center moved to its current building about 20 years ago, continuing to serve as a gathering place for friends old and new.
Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Center offers much more than just a meal. Karen explains, “We play bingo, put puzzles together, do a lot of socializing.” Every weekday at noon, a dietician-planned lunch is served. If you’re 60 or older, a $3 donation is suggested; under 60, it’s just $7. Reservations are appreciated by 9 a.m., but as Karen notes, you can call and leave a message any time.
Lunch hour at the Center is a highlight for many. One guest said, “Karen is an incredibly good cook—the food is fantastic.” But it’s not just about the meal. “Honestly, in a town this small, you’d think we’d see each other all the time. But sometimes, this is the only place you cross paths with old friends,” said another patron. The laughter, the stories, and the spirit of togetherness are every bit as nourishing as what’s on the plate.
For those who can’t leave home, volunteers deliver hot meals—15 or more every weekday— along with a check-in and a smile. If there’s no answer, Karen says, family is called to make sure everyone is okay. Volunteer drivers are always needed, and for many, this service is a lifeline.
The Center is a hive of activity beyond mealtime, too. Bingo, puzzles, and conversation fill the days. And this fall, the Center’s drive-in style movie night will debut, with help from tech-savvy volunteers who set up Bluetooth sound systems so everyone can enjoy the show.
That’s right—you heard it here: raised flowerbeds! Why would a senior center need raised beds? Welcome to the Senior Vegetable Garden. “We wanted something folks could enjoy without having to get down on their knees,” Karen explained with a smile. Members will soon have fresh tomatoes, squash, herbs, and—if all goes as planned—a pumpkin patch come fall. All the fun, none of the backaches.
Thanks to a generous local donation and support from the city, the Center is getting a facelift: new paint, an LED sign, a resurfaced parking lot, and fresh garden beds. Inside, plans include cozy reading and game nooks, round tables for dominoes and cards, a big screen TV, and space for a growing library.
Even bigger dreams are taking root. Karen and Kay Allen hope to add a blessing box—an outdoor cabinet where neighbors can give or take essentials like canned food, books, or toiletries. The wish list also includes a round wooden game table with chairs, comfortable easy chairs, clean area rugs, bookshelves, and a working record player with records. If community participation grows, don’t be surprised if the old dances come back, too.
Kay put it simply: Even if some folks can’t make it in for lunch, “we want them to know someone cares. If you’re looking for a way to help, come volunteer—bring a friend, or just bring an idea.”
The Center relies on community support—whether it’s helping deliver meals, donating gently used furnishings, gardening, or simply spending time with others. If you’d like to get involved or know someone who could use a warm meal and a warmer welcome, reach out via the Sayre Senior Citizens Center Facebook page or call during business hours.
As one regular put it, you can’t beat a homemade meal at noon—and it’s the best way in town to see an old friend.
Sayre’s Senior Citizens Center isn’t just about food. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors, sharing memories, and building a future where everyone belongs. Stop in, volunteer, or share an idea—and help make Sayre stronger, one meal and one moment at a time.
Wish List for the Center: - Round wooden game table (4–6 chairs) - Comfortable easy chairs - Large, clean area rugs - Bookshelves/display shelving - Record player & records - Volunteers for meal delivery, gardening, activities - Ideas for blessing box, movie night, and more!
Follow the Center on Facebook for news, menus, updates, and opportunities to help.
