Trust will help to start renovations and expansion at the Packwood Home for the Elderly.

The second donation to the Sandys Parish care facility will be made next year.

Chairperson of the Packwood Home Board of Trustees, Lady Swan said that the funds will help to defray the costs of major renovation and expansion which will increase bed capacity to 28.

Also planned are improved kitchen, dining, laundry and storage facilities in addition to enhancements to residents' recreational areas, office space and staff facilities.

Mr. Eldon Trimingham, chairman of the Bank's board of directors and the Centennial Trust Advisory Committee, presented the donation to Lady Swan.

Mr. Trimingham said, "The Bank's Centennial Trust is administered to help recognise and support Bermuda's culture, tradition and heritage.

"Our senior citizens are the embodiment of these important objectives.

Elderly people 65 years and older constitute an increasing portion of our population.

"Between 1970 and 1990 Bermudians 65 and older increased 70 percent. It is estimated that 12 percent of the population will be 65 or older by the year 2,000.

"Accordingly it is imperative that we expand facilities proportionately to ensure their health, care and well being.'' The Packwood Home was developed as a home for the aged after Dr. Richard Arnold Packwood, and his wife Mary, bequeathed their home "Andover Arbour''.

For decades the home has provided nursing care and accommodation for people over 65. It now provides long-term care to individuals, but require some supervision with the activities of daily living.

Since its establishment on the Bank's 100th anniversary the Trust has contributed more than $2.4 million to non-profit social service organisations dedicated to the people and environment of Bermuda.

LARGE CHEQUE -- The first part of a $200,000 donation from the Bank of Bermuda's Centennial Trust was yesterday donated to the Packwood Home for the aged. From left: Mr. Alfred Simmons of the Packwood Home, Lady Swan, chairperson of the home's board of trustees, Mr. Lloyd Telfor, Mr. Eldon Trimingham, chairman of the Bank of Bermuda, bank senior vice president Mr.

Louis Mowbray and Mr. Charles Latham from the home.