Gifts will go to local seniors
Christmas can make even the oldest among us feel like a child again.
At the Gilmer Senior Center, seniors will celebrate the love and joy of Christmas with fun and gifts at a new Christmas event.
“It really gives them a sense of value and self-worth,” Activities Coordinator Leslie Haberman said.
For seniors in need, receiving Christmas gifts means a lot, Haberman said.
“To them, it means, ‘Someone thought of me,’” she said. “They get really emotional when you give them things.”
While some of the center’s seniors have family nearby, others are very lonely.
Making Christmas special for them is very important.
“It’s easy to fall into a rut and just stay home,” Haberman said.
Those interested in donating should bring gift cards, ham, turkey or other presents to 111 Gilmer Street between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday to Friday.
It’s best to bring gift cards to local restaurants, Director Vicki Padgett said.
Themed gift baskets are also requested.
This ensures the gifts can be evenly distributed.
“It should be something that you wouldn’t normally spend your money on, but you could splurge,” Padgett said.
When the gifts are gathered, the seniors will celebrate a Christmas party Friday, Dec. 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will include games, karaoke, a Secret Santa event and more. Then, the center will give them their gifts.
All Gilmer seniors over 60 are invited.
“We’re going to come up with some kind of game and put these gift cards in cups,” Haberman said.
Those interested in learning more can email the center at vstonecipher@ngcainc.com.
Throughout the year, the Gilmer Senior Center helps low-income, elderly and home-bound individuals in the county.
They provide community meals, Meals on Wheels programs, activities and recreation to help create community and fellowship.
The Senior Center also provides referrals and information services to connect participants with important resources. All their services are free.