Santa to a Senior brightens the holiday season for older adults in Rockbridge County who may not receive any other gifts this year.
The program works with local service agencies and nursing facilities to identify seniors who are homebound, financially constrained, or socially isolated. A personalized wish list is created for each older adult. Most of the requests include simple items such as warm socks, shampoo, or new clothes, while other seniors ask for pet supplies, help with a utility bill, or something special that reminds them of their childhood.
The wish lists are adopted by generous individuals, organizations, or businesses. Most donors live here in Rockbridge County but some live as far away as New York or Texas. The donated gifts are beautifully packaged in gift bags decorated by Lexington City Schools art students.
Santa to a Senior has no corporate affiliation this year; it is a volunteer-driven effort to keep a holiday gift program going in Rockbridge County in 2025. Over 200 local older adults will receive gifts.
While most of the wish lists have already been adopted, there is still a need for stocking stuffer items and logistical help. A large space for packing/storage through Dec. 13th would also be a great blessing, said Melissa Sayre. Anyone interested in supporting this effort can sign up online or email Sayre at melissa@ vpas.info.
Online signup is available at https://www.signupgenius.com/ go/30E0C4BABAF2DA1FA7-60057088-santa#/.
