Dutchess County's Office for the Aging has reimagined bingo in a way to keep vulnerable seniors safe from COVID-19.

Residents like Kathy Perrota say the drive-thru event allows her to reconnect with people she hasn’t seen in months.

“It’s good to see familiar faces again,” says Perrota. “I think this is nice of the Office of the Aging, I really do.”

News 12 is told players tune in to a radio station to listen for the numbers and check them off.

Office for the Aging Director Todd Tancredi calls it a way to keep seniors safe and distant while allowing them to have fun.

“During COVID, isolation and depression go hand in hand for many seniors. So, it’s important to get them out and get them engaged,” says Tancredi.

County Executive Marc Molinaro even popped in to read numbers to participants.

“Folks are out, they’re interacting and importantly, we’re able to get services, resources to seniors in a friendly setting,” says Molinaro.

The event is free of charge.