SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend Cubs and Saint Joseph Health System have renewed the Silver Sluggers program for the 2018 season.

The program offers special ticket prices and programs for participating seniors.

In addition, two South Bend Cubs players will live at SJHS St. Paul's Life Plan Community.

“There is no deeper love for the game than in our senior community,” said Joe Hart, president of the South Bend Cubs. “Giving them an opportunity to fuel their passion for America’s favorite pastime is something we are excited to do again this year.”

Seniors 55 and older can purchase discounted tickets for every Wednesday home game this season beginning April 19. The discounted price for a field box ticket will be $6 - a 45-percent discount.

The program is beneficial for the South Bend Cubs and the seniors as well.

 “Studies continue to show that social interaction and connections have health benefits,” noted Shari Binkley, executive director, St. Paul’s. “According to the National Institute on Aging, lack of social interaction is consistently associated with biomarkers of health, including risk factors for disease such as Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease and some forms of cancer.”

At their first game, the senior will receive a Silver Sluggers card that will be punched each time they attend a game.

After attending four Wednesday games, Silver Sluggers will receive a free South Bend Cubs Silver Sluggers hat. After attending seven Wednesday games, Silver Sluggers participants will be invited to a free ballpark picnic at the final Wednesday home game of the season, August 29.

The Senior Sluggers participants will be seated in a "Friendship" section so they can meet with old friends and make new ones.

Seniors and other fans can also get free health screenings provided by SJHS.

One Silver Slugger participant will be chosen at each Wednesday game to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

To receive a Silver Sluggers membership card, fans must visit the Four Winds Field Box Office and present a photo ID. Memberships will be available beginning Wednesday, April 11. Members must visit the Four Winds Field Box Office to receive their discounted game ticket.