Silver Bells Project: Gifts for Long-Term Care Residents in WKY

CANVA

My Grandpa Buddy was in long-term care off and on for the last half of his life. Despite having a stroke that left him paralyzed on his right side, he successfully lived independently for a long time. However, as time went on he just needed more help to *safely* go about his day. He was a ray of sunshine for a lot of people, myself included of course. Even if he couldn't hear what you were saying most of the time, he was always happy to see you.

Walker Texas Ranger & Christmas Traditions

We were very lucky to be able to visit him and care for him in these local long-term facilities. He was spoiled when it came to food and treats thanks to my dad. My mom went to see him every day to do anything he needed. I watched Walker Texas Ranger with him more times than I could count. We had Thanksgiving with him there, opened presents with him on Christmas morning, and everything.

Showing Love to Long-Term Care Residents

I know that it may not be the norm for a long-term care resident to see their loved ones as often as my Grandpa did. Life seems so much busier now and COVID sure threw a huge wrench in, well, everything. I sometimes wonder about those folks and how they find joy in a facility away from family and friends.

2024 Silver Bells Project

Green River Area Development District is doing something to spread joy to long-term personal care home facilities this Christmas season. They are now accepting donations for this year's Silver Bells Project. Approximately 250 residents in Daviess, Hancock, and Henderson counties will receive gift bags with special treats in them.

Green River District Ombudsman Andrew Law organizes this giving project. On Facebook, he shared, "We are grateful to be able to provide holiday cheer to residents through the Silver Bells program. We are very appreciative of any donations. It's a wonderful program." Thanks to the generosity of the community, this is the thirteenth year for Silver Bells.

How to Help Long-Term Care Facility Residents This Christmas

The gift bags include canned soft drinks, chips, gloves, hand lotion, lip balm, puzzle books, snack cakes, snack crackers, socks, and tissues. Donations of goods, cash, or checks may be made until Friday, December 13th at the GRADD office, 300 GRADD Way. For more information, contact: Andrew Law, andrewlaw@gradd.com, 270-926-4433.