The Be a Santa to a Senior program continues to make the holidays a little brighter for Rockbridge area older adults who may not receive other gifts this year.
Community service organizations, social workers, and nursing facilities identify seniors who are financially in need, homebound, disabled, or socially isolated. A personalized wish list is created for each older adult.
The requests are usually for simple items such as warm socks, lap blankets, or new pajamas. The organization also receives more unique requests for items like art supplies, a harmonica, a special cologne, a Christmas sweater for a dog, or a VCR.
“Generous people in the community adopt the wish lists and purchase the items,” said Melissa Sayre, program coordinator for Rockbridge County. “They fulfill the wish lists with so much care and effort. Some families make it an annual tradition to go shopping for their seniors. As an added touch, the presents are delivered to the recipients in festive gift bags that have been hand-decorated by art students at Lexington City Schools.”
Older adults are often overlooked during the busy holiday season. “Be a Santa to a Senior is an opportunity for individuals, organizations and businesses to make a difference right here in the Rockbridge community,” said Sayre.
Online sign-up is available at ht tps://www. signupgenius.com/ go/30E0C4BABAF2DA1FA752872888-beasanta. The deadline to help with this year’s project is Dec. 9.
For more information, email Melissa Sayre at melgladwell3@ gmail.com.
