For the eighth consecutive year, Community Care Northumberland will support seniors throughout the county this holiday season through the Adopt a Grandparent Program.
This program spreads joy by surprising seniors who may be experiencing isolation or loneliness with meaningful gifts during the holiday season. Last year, Community Care Northumberland reached over 130 “grandparents” across Northumberland County.
Trish Baird, Chief Executive Officer for Community Care Northumberland, comments, “This program brings smiles of appreciation not only from our ‘Grandparents’ but from the many individuals and families who join together to support a holiday gift and from the volunteers and staff who deliver. Community Care Northumberland’s Adopt a Grandparent Program demonstrates the true spirit of the season and the generosity of our community.”
Mary, a past adopted grandparent, shared, “Thank you for my wonderful Christmas gift. It was an amazing surprise that made my Christmas so much brighter.” Another recipient, Jim, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you for the Christmas gift, I was feeling down, and it made my spirits brighter! This gift meant so much to me. It brought happy tears to my eyes.” These heartfelt testimonials show the positive impact the program had on people during the holiday season, bringing joy and comfort when it was needed most.
This year, community members who are interested in adopting a grandparent can reach out to Community Care Northumberland by calling 1-866-514-5774 or emailing wellness@commcare.ca to be matched with a senior. Purchased gifts may be dropped off at a local office to be delivered to our “grandparents” by our volunteers the week before Christmas. Community Care Northumberland asks that all unwrapped gifts (gift bags or baskets are ok) be dropped off at a local office on or before Friday, December 6th. Additionally, individuals can “Adopt a Grandparent” by donating to the program, and Community Care Northumberland staff will do the shopping.
Community Care Northumberland kindly asks participants to refrain from including homemade baked goods. For any handmade items, such as scarves or mittens, please include washing instructions. Other gift suggestions include gift cards for local stores or gift certificates for Community Care Northumberland programs, such as Meals on Wheels or Transportation. Your thoughtfulness in selecting gifts is greatly appreciated!