With the challenging times facing many Canadians, helping Northumberland County seniors have a hopeful and memorable holiday season are the goals of a program being launched by Community Care Northumberland (CCN).
For the eighth consecutive year, CCN is inviting residents to “Adopt a Grandparent” this Christmas. On Friday (November 1), the organization kicked off its 2024 instalment of the initiative that pairs a resident with an area senior in need.
The program aims to spread joy by surprising seniors who may be experiencing isolation or loneliness with meaningful gifts during the holiday season.
“Each year, our Adopt a Grandparent program sees a growing need for connection and support among seniors,” CCN communications specialist Chelsea Rankin told kawarthaNOW. “This year, with rising costs and inflation making things tough for many, that need is even greater.”
Last year, CCN reached more than 130 “grandparents” across Northumberland County.
One of those adopted grandparents was a man named Jim, who shared his appreciation in a media release from CCN.
“Thank you for the Christmas gift,” Jim said. “I was feeling down, and it made my spirits brighter. This gift meant so much to me. It brought happy tears to my eyes.”
CCN CEO Trish Baird said that, in addition to bringing smiles to area seniors, the program also offers joy to the people who join together to purchase a gift.
“CCN’s Adopt a Grandparent program demonstrates the true spirit of the season and the generosity of our community,” Baird said in a statement.
People who haven’t participated in the past can expect a “heartwarming experience” by taking part in the program, Rankin added.
“Knowing that someone in the community is thinking of our grandparents and has chosen a gift just for them makes a meaningful impact. Your involvement can truly brighten their holiday season.”
Community members who are interested in adopting a grandparent can reach out to CCN by calling 1-866-514-5774 or by emailing wellness@commcare.ca to be matched with a senior.
All unwrapped gifts — gift bags or baskets are acceptable — must be dropped off at a local CCN office on or before Friday, December 6. Volunteers will deliver the packages to seniors the week before Christmas.
Gift suggestions include gift cards for local stores or gift certificates for CCN programs, such as Meals on Wheels or transportation.
CCN asks participants to refrain from including homemade baked goods. If donating handmade items, such as scarves or mittens, organizers ask community members to include washing instructions.
Additionally, residents can “adopt a grandparent” by donating to the program, and CCN staff will take care of the shopping for the recipients.
CCN is a multi-service community support organization in Northumberland County. Through the creation, co-ordination and delivery of nutrition, transportation, wellness, in-home and hospice services, CCN strives to improve the health and well-being of its clients. Programs and services target enhancing the quality of life for seniors, adults with disabilities, those recovering from illness or injury, along with hospice clients and their loved ones and caregivers.
