OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Office for the Aging (OFA) is now accepting nominations for its “Santa for Seniors” program, which helps older adults who may be isolated during the holiday season.
“We are happy to once again offer the ‘Santa for Seniors’ program to help brighten the holidays of the older residents of our communities,” said OFA Senior Aging Services Specialist Elizabeth Weimer. “This initiative is all about bringing joy to our isolated seniors who otherwise would not be receiving gifts this holiday season.”
Older adults who have limited resources or may be alone during the holidays are eligible to be nominated for the program to receive gifts for the holidays. Community members may make nominations or seniors can nominate themselves.
“Due to construction in our office space, we are limited to how many seniors we can accept for nominations this year,” Weimer continued. “However, we are introducing the option of small holiday bags to include as many recipients as possible.”
Those interested in purchasing gifts for seniors can choose to adopt a senior and get items from their wish list, or they can sign up to provide holiday bags for residents of senior apartment complexes. These bags consist of a word search book, pen, hand sanitizer, tissues, a package of hard candy and a holiday card.
People who would like to nominate an older adult to receive gifts are asked to submit a nomination form to the Office for the Aging by Friday, Nov. 15. Nomination forms should include information about the individual’s interests and hobbies, personality traits, clothing sizes and suggested or needed gift items.
To get a nomination form, call the Office for the Aging weekdays at 315-349-3484. Staff will mail out nomination or adoption forms as requested.
Families and organizations who would like to “adopt” a senior or provide small gift bags may arrange to do so through the Office for the Aging. Delivery of gift items should be provided to the OFA by Monday, Dec. 2. Donors are asked not to donate gift cards, plants or perishable items.
Weimer said the program is voluntary and there is no guarantee that each older adult who is nominated will receive a gift, or that every person interested will be able to adopt a senior.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 315-349-3570.
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