Many of us have had wonderful grandparents influence our lives as I did. I cared for my grandmother, Glenda, in my home for seven years before she passed away in hospice at home in 2012. Glenda was lucky. She had a loving family who cared for her at home. But even so, I watched as little by little she became more socially isolated. Friends and family had passed on, her pastor retired and stopped coming by, and after a bad fall that broke her hip, getting out became difficult. In our changing social structure, loneliness among older adults has become more prevalent. Loosing connections to family, friends, and community leads to greater risk for health and wellbeing decline.
The year following Glenda's passing I was missing her dearly, especially during the holidays. While searching for a way to honor her life, I discovered Gifts for Seniors and the amazing work they do in the community. Gifts for Seniors is a charitable 501(c) (3) nonprofit that was created with the realization that across the Twin Cities thousands of seniors are living emotionally disadvantaged lives. For them, a spouse has died, children have moved away, or failing health and diminished income have left them unable to reach out.
I am thrilled about our program’s continued success and grateful to have been given this opportunity to serve my community’s older adults. Gifts for Seniors' extraordinarily committed volunteers, board, staff, corporate and agency partners are busily preparing to provide the personal life-affirming visits our elders are longing for this time of year. Gifts for Seniors served 6,132 last holiday season and we need your help to support the growing needs. Please consider donating now. Even if you only have a modest contribution, collectively we can make a meaningful impact for those throughout our community.
Please join us in bringing a bit of warmth and joy to others! Give the gift of being present.
With gratitude,
Carolyn