Santa for Seniors SANTA for SENIORS is the annual giving project that began six years ago at the recommendation of a student intern from Siena Heights University. We were seeking a group of individuals who could benefit from increased attention and recognition at the holidays. We had a partnership at the time with Lynwood Manor and working with Gail McGee, Activities Director we learned of the need for gifts for many of Lynwood’s residents. Many men and women in our area skilled nursing facilities have little or no family in the area to be an active part of their lives. Santa for Seniors was born out of a conversation with Gail during which we learned that the staff chose resident’s names from a Giving Tree to ensure that all residents received gifts during the holiday parties. We also learned that employees were struggling to provide as many gifts that were needed. The project has grown from providing 100 gifts to Lynwood to providing the same number of gifts to the residents at Provincial House, Magnum Care and Lenawee Medical Care Facility as well as Lynwood Manor. As the number of seniors receiving gifts has increased over the years, so have the numbers of those in the community adding their support. Among those who have provided support since the beginning are: Citizen’s Gas Fuel Company, the Adrian Fraternal Order of Police, Meijer, Wal-Mart, individuals from the community as well members of the Chamber staff. This year’s program is underway and we are inviting and encouraging participation from groups, churches, clubs and individuals as we have raised the bar of the number of gifts being provided this season to 500! How can you help? By donating a gift or gifts that can be used and enjoyed by the seniors we are assisting; contributing wrapping paper and tape; or volunteering to help with wrapping the 500 gifts in early December! A complete list of needed items is below! The most recommended gifts include: white socks; fleece throws; sweaters and sweatshirts; candy (regular and sugar-free); lotions, radios, large face clocks, and stuffed animals. Sandie Ray is the Chamber staff member in charge of the Santa for Seniors program and is in the office Monday thru Wednesday. She can be reached anytime by e-mail at sandieray@adrianareachamber. For further information, please call the Chamber at 517-265-2320. Santa for Seniors 2013 Wish List
Posted on: Tue, 19 Nov 2013 19:08:26 +0000
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