DUNNVILLE—All 128 residents of Grandview Lodge (GVL) long-term care home can look forward to another nice surprise this Christmas morning as the home carries on its beloved stocking program for yet another holiday season.
The program is driven completely by volunteers and staff working behind the scenes to bring a little Christmas magic to life each year.
“The stocking program provides each resident at GVL a stocking full of gifts by their bedside on Christmas morning,” said Programs and Support Supervisor Melissa Baisley.
Like Haldimand’s other popular gift-giving program Santa to a Senior, GVL’s stocking program is designed around tailoring stockings to each resident’s individual personality, interests, and needs.
“In order for this program to be a success, we rely on the generous contributions from the staff and community. Monetary and non-monetary donations are accepted, such as toiletries, books, puzzles, lap blankets, and any size donation is accepted,” said Baisley.
While the program has traditionally seen strong support, Baisley noted that participants really kicked it up a notch this year, calling that help “exceptional, and I am so proud of our community.”
The program, which celebrated 20 years last Christmas, began in 2003. Each year begins with the home’s recreation staff talking to the residents in their area and compiling the lists of gift ideas. Gifts are purchased using remaining funding left from donations, with program organizers then doing the needed shopping to bring it all together.
“Countless hours are put into this program each year by a GVL volunteer, and staff assisting in preparing 128 stockings for each resident,” said Baisley.
She said the program is often just one way to help brighten a day that could be difficult for some seniors, especially in cases where they will not get to see their families for the holidays.
“The holidays may be a challenging time of year for residents,” said Baisley. “It may amplify feelings of isolation and homesickness, remind them of past experiences with families, friends. They may be adjusting to change of routine and family traditions. It can be overwhelming due to new surroundings, environment. Extra attention and Christmas spirit can assist in decreasing these feelings.”
At the end of the day, all the extra work done to bring the stocking program together is worth it for all involved.
“This program ensures everyone receives something special over the Christmas holidays. Residents are so excited and thankful to receive a stocking at their bedside. This creates a very meaningful connection between the residents, volunteers, and staff at GVL,” concluded Baisley.
