Henny Penny Brings Joy to Resthaven Clients

Over two weeks in early 2020, Resthaven Marion Community Services at 43 Finniss Street, Marion, hosted a ‘Henny Penny Hatching’ incubator, to the delight of clients visiting the centre for their wellness support.

Therapy Assistant, Monika Lyckholm, says, "We received an incubator containing thirteen eggs, and a viewing pen with three recently hatched chicks."

"The hatching area was set up in the reception area for all to view and enjoy."

"The setup became a hub of excitement and chatter, with clients and staff alike enjoying watching the chicks cluck around in their pen, and reminiscing about their experiences of keeping chickens themselves as children."

"Several clients held the delicate chicks in their hands, providing a warm spot for them to relax and sleep."

"Even Huxley, our companion dog, was captivated by the chicks – he sat by the pen constantly and stared at them. The curious chicks were equally fascinated by Huxley."

"One of our Therapy Assistants, Darren, was named 'chicken dad,' cleaning the pen, transferring the newly hatched chicks from the incubator to the pen, and topping up water and food daily."

"All 13 eggs ended up hatching, but they were sneaky – only four eggs hatched in view, whilst the others hatched overnight when no one was looking."

"When the program came to a close, all thirteen chicks were adopted by Resthaven Marion Community Services staff."

"Eight of the chicks are living their best life in Loxton and Wilcannia, and the other eight live locally in backyards."

"We hope to receive updates on how they are going, and look forward to hosting another Henny Penny Hatching program next year!"

Manager Deb McDonald says, "The Henny Penny activity brought so much joy to everyone, and helped connect people through their shared memories.

"People come to Marion Community Services for social activities, connecting with friends, exercise and balance classes, and for physiotherapy, occupational therapy and podiatry. Having the Henny Penny incubator in our reception was a great way to unite people with a common interest, and to spark conversations."

Resthaven Marion Community Services provides support to older people to stay independent, connected with their community, and to improve their physical health to live the life they want, and stay living at home.

Manager Deb McDonald says "We work together to enable clients achieve their goals. Our wellness services are personally designed for each individual and can be short term or ongoing."

For details about Resthaven Community Services call 1300 13 66 33.