Adopt A Grandparent this Christmas

By Cecilia Nasmith

Community Care Northumberland is supporting seniors throughout the holiday season for a sixth consecutive year through its Adopt A Grandparent program.

This program spreads the joy of the season by surprising seniors – who might be experiencing isolation or loneliness – with meaningful gifts.

“Adopt A Grandparent has shown us what coming together as a community can be all about, and how nice it is to give back,” Chief Executive Officer Trish Baird commented.

“In true holiday spirit, our community unites each year, giving to those who need it most.

“We hope that the sixth year of the program is even more successful than ever!”

Members of the community interested in adopting a grandparent are invited to call CCN at 1-866-514-5774 or e-mail wellness@commcare.ca to be matched with a senior.

Organizers ask that unwrapped gifts (gift bags or baskets are okay) be dropped off to a local Community Care office by Dec. 9 – or individuals may Adopt A Grandparent by donating to the program and allowing CCN staff to do the shopping.

For this year's programs, participants are asked to refrain from including home-made baked goods, and also to include washing instructions for hand-made items like scarves or mittens.

Other gift suggestions include gift cards for local stores, or even CCN gift certificates good for such programs as Meals On Wheels or Transportation.

Gifts will be delivered to the Grand parents by volunteers during the week before Christmas.