Be a Santa to a Senior program brings cheer to lonely seniors

The program is a way to say “Thank You” to seniors for all their years of hard work and serving their communities, said Sue Loftis, a co-owner of the local Home Instead franchise.

“We hear stories every year that will bring tears to your eyes,” Loftis said of how grateful and touched the seniors are who receive gifts through the program.

The program kicked off last week when Christmas trees went up in two local Thrifty Pharmacies and at the Home Instead office. The trees are decorated with ornaments featuring the names of needy seniors and their wish lists for Christmas gifts.

“It's often things like paper towels, dish soap and other cleaning supplies,” Loftis said.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nine percent of U.S. seniors 65 and older are living in poverty and 27 percent are widowed.

“Seniors faced with medical bills and the high cost of living can find they have little left at the end of the year,” said David Loftis, co-owner of the Home Instead Senior Care. “That's not the only issue, though. Personal needs may become magnified for so many living alone with no one to share their problems.”