The South Bend Cubs and Saint Joseph Health System announced the Silver Sluggers program, which is designed to get senior citizens who want to support their local team build new friendships and engage with others.

“Studies suggest that seniors who remain active in social activities with others experience more positive outcomes with regard to health and well-being,” said Shari Binkley, Executive Director at St. Paul’s. “Seeing the South Bend Cubs and Saint Joseph Health System launch this Silver Sluggers program to provide opportunities to keep our seniors on the right path to better health and well-being…it says a lot.”

The Silver Sluggers program will include discounted tickets on Wednesdays, special seating as well as incentives like a free hat and free picnic.

Seniors 60-years or older can get a $6 field box ticket for each Wednesday home game of the season.

At their first Wednesday home game, participants get a Silver Sluggers card that can be punched each game.

After attending four Wednesday games, participants receive a free South Bend Cubs Silver Sluggers hat.

After attending six Wednesday games, participants will be invited to a free all-you-can-eat ballpark picnic at the final home game of the season on August 24.

Seniors attending South Bend Cubs games as part of the Silver Slugger program will be seated in a “Friendship Section,” where seniors will have the potential to meet and develop friendships with other seniors in attendance.