There are many programs helping to make sure kids have a good Christmas season. But what about senior citizens who might not have the circle of family and friends many others enjoy?
For them, it can be a lonely holiday. And that’s where the Be a Santa to a Senior program steps in.
Sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care, the program is designed to help get seniors exactly what they want or need for Christmas. Organizers talk to various nursing homes and other professionals dealing with older people who may not be looking forward to a merry Christmas, find out what they want or need, and then generate lists they distribute through gift tree locations throughout the area.
Those wanting to participate find out about some of the items seniors need, purchase them, and those items are then given directly to the senior citizen just before Christmas.
Many trees are located at local businesses, and continue looking for gifts through Dec. 15. There’s no need to wrap the gifts, volunteers will take care of it. All they need is someone willing to pick up an ornament with a small wish list, and to fulfill that list.
Speaking of wrapping, Home Instead will host a wrapping party for volunteers Dec. 17 beginning at 1 p.m., at the company’s office, 29149 Chapel Park Drive in Wesley Chapel.
For more information on the Be a Santa to a Senior program, and see where you can find a gift tree, visit BeASantaToASenior.com.
