Sanford Center for Aging delivered 44 gifts to clients in the Community Services and Senior Outreach Services programs as part of Gifts of Joy, a holiday initiative created by Sanford Center. Local sponsors, the City of Reno, Grace Church Widow's Group and the National Judicial College on the ÍƼöÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ campus, gave personalized presents to local elders who may be isolated this season.
In addition to the gifts, Sanford Center for Aging also provided hygiene kits to all 44 older adults which included toilet paper, laundry detergent, body wash and more. The hygiene kits were purchased using grant funding from State of Nevada, Aging and Disability Services Division and generous donations from Sanford Center for Aging employees.
“For many of the individuals in our program, this will be the only gift they receive during the holidays,” said Crissa Markow, director of Community Services at the Sanford Center for Aging. “Many thank us throughout the year, telling us what an impact it made in getting some of the basic things they wish for – like pillows, slippers, blankets and sweatshirts.”
Sponsors have played a vital role in the success of Gifts of Joy. Their support has made this program a beloved tradition, from purchasing gifts to wrapping them. Volunteers in the Community Services program then deliver presents directly to the older adults.
“The holidays can be especially lonely for many elders we serve,” said Markow. “This is a small way to honor our elders and remind them the community cares about them.”
The Sanford Center for Aging invites the public to to support local elders. All the services provided by Sanford Center for Aging are free to older adults. In addition to donating, many elders are waiting to be matched with a volunteer. It only takes a few hours each month to be a companion. Call (775) 784-4774 to join.
