A 'Be a Santa to a Senior' volunteer dropping off a gift for a senior in need. They also do no-contact deliveries. (Home Instead)

By Jordan Davidson

senior smiles

New holiday program ensures isolated seniors aren’t forgotten

Nov 28, 2021 | 6:25 AM

NANAIMO — Christmas isn’t just for the kids to enjoy.

A local campaign encouraging people to ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ wants to make sure nobody is being left out of the holiday season fun, while also making sure they have all their essential items.

The Nanaimo and Courtenay branches of Home Instead are teaming up with local charities to find seniors who may not have a chance to get a gift this year.

“Maybe it’s a neighbour calling in and saying, ‘I really believe so and so will be a great candidate’,” Melissa King, owner of the Nanaimo branch, said. We’ve actually had a couple where if they don’t have families, or the families are a bit farther away, maybe they just don’t quite know how low they are on items if they don’t have those regular check-ins.”

She said the global pandemic can further isolate those who may already be out of regular contact with friends or their families.

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“This really provides holiday cheer by delivering a gift to our lonely or isolated older adults who might otherwise go without gifts during this holiday season…we’re just hoping to group together and brighten some of the holiday for our deserving seniors.”

Decorations on Christmas trees at both locations contain the names of someone who has signed up for the program, as well as a list of their desired items.

Essential items such as toiletries, warm clothing, blankets and slippers are always a good choice for a donation.

To donate, or to register a deserving senior in your life, you can go to beasantatoasenior.com.

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jordan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow