Social Action: Bringing the season to them

We all know how important community connection is. When we feel connected, we are happier, healthier and feel safer in our community.

During various seasons in life, people may face holidays alone. For a variety of reasons, seniors may have a harder time connecting with their families or people in their community.

The thoughtful actions of several Strathcona County residents, who are wishing to remain anonymous, are helping seniors in our community feel special this upcoming Valentine’s Day.

Q: What Social Action initiative are you facilitating? Can you please explain it?

A: Adopt a Senior in Sherwood Park was originally created to help seniors get stocking stuffer gifts for Christmas. The original program facilitator did a great job ensuring that residents in seniors lodges and care facilities received some Christmas cheer. Due to the COVID restrictions implemented in 2021, we expanded the program to include Valentine’s Day. Last year, the community donated over 800 Valentine’s Day cards to seniors at three facilities. This year, various community organizations have gotten involved to get more valentines out residents living in the facilities. We want to give valentines to every seniors facility in the community this year, which means that we will need over 3,000 valentines.

Q: What is your favourite part of being involved in the Adopt a Senior?

A: I love hearing about the smiles that we are able to put on the faces of seniors in the community. It is nice to hear that we were able to brighten their day.

Q: How do you think this initiative is helping others?

A: We want all seniors to receive a Valentine. I have heard stories of seniors who have no family living near them (or no family at all). We don’t want to see them forgotten.

Q: Do you have a heartwarming story from someone receiving a Valentine?

A: We get various letters back from the receivers. That is what it's all about, making sure that they know someone cares about them.

Q: How can people get involved and donate a Valentine?

A: People can drop valentines off during business hours at Brentwood Chiropractic Clinic (#108-137 Fir Street, Sherwood Park) or at Pockit Self Storage (70 Broadview Road, Sherwood Park). Donations will be accepted until the end of business hours on February 4 (they have to quarantine before delivery). We would love to get enough donations to give to every facility this Valentine’s Day!