COLORADO SPRINGS — The Colorado Springs Senior Center, an extension of the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, is working hard to deliver hope to our senior citizens.
But they need your help. All it would take is a message from you to a senior letting them know they're not alone.
HOW STAFF IS HELPING WITH MEALS AND CARE PACKAGES
Hand-written notes decorate dozens of bags sitting at the center each week.
150 bags will feed senior citizens thanks to their partnership with other non-profits like Silver Key and Care and Share.
But, for those who need some extra TLC, they are putting together special care packages.
"So we put together gift bags of just things that would be warm and fuzzy," explained Mary Santek, Program and Operations Director at the Colorado Springs Senior Center. "So, tea, a journal, chapstick, chocolate, a magazine."
Every Monday, employees hand-deliver those bags that folks aren't able to pick up.
"We're actually surprising them," Santek said. "We're having a conversation. We know that they're in need and we bring that and we bring that bag with gloves a mask on to their doorstep."
They're letting these seniors know they are here for them.
"They are not alone," Santek added. They are loved, they are cared for."
And the message is getting through, as heard in voice messages sent to the PPYMCA.
"I just wanted to thank you for all that you're doing," said one woman.
"I just wanted to say thank you very much. You are so nice and so helpful," added another man.
HOW YOU CAN SEND A NOTE TO A SENIOR
But to continue delivering this message of hope, they need your help.
Right now, they need about 200 notes a week to include in meal bags and care packages.
It's as easy as writing a note, and dropping it off inside a box in front of their building located at 1514 N Hancock Ave.
A note is a great way to reach those who can't easily reach out to others.
"They don't have family in town. A lot of their loved ones have passed away so they don't have anyone to talk to on the phone. Some of them don't know how to access, or don't have internet," Santek explained.
"It gets so isolated and lonely at home. So any kind of note just to inspire them and encourage them to, 'Hey you can do this!'"
You can even turn it into an art project for the kids.
"If kids want to draw photos or paintings or anything crafts that we can put in the bag, bring it, put it in the box," Santek said. "We'll get it to our older adults."
