News
Christmas was brighter for 130 seniors thanks to Thunder Bay's generosity
Santa's Elves making Christmas morning special
Date: 2015-12-31
The first annual be a Santa to a Senior campaign wrapped up December 25th with the delivery of 130 gifts to local seniors. Elves were busy handing out presents on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, starting a new tradition and making everyone happy in the process.
Karin Sitko, the volunteer who initiated the campaign, was overwhelmed by the experience. “I knew that giving gifts would be a wonderful thing to do, I just didn’t realize how much love and joy it would bring. Everyone receiving a gift was so thankful and surprised; it was amazing to see the happiness in their eyes.”
Included with the gifts was a card signed by Santa. “The community and Santa provided these gifts. We merely worked with Santa’s Elves to make it happen.” says Katrina O’Neill, St. Joseph’s Foundation, Executive Director. “The Spirit of Christmas is very much alive in Thunder Bay, and it was clearly demonstrated this year. Our goal was to raise $10,000 to purchase gifts and between the cash donations and gift donations we reached that goal.”
“I am very pleased that we were able to help many people have a wonderful Christmas. This campaign touched the heart of our community, as demonstrated by people’s generosity over such a short period of time.“ says Tracy Buckler, President and CEO, SJCG. “While our staff do all that they can to ensure every client and resident has a lovely Christmas, it is these extras that make it truly special.”
Maria Lassonde, a gift recipient, was delighted to receive a Christmas present. “I was very surprised to have a visitor Christmas morning. My son couldn’t come to visit me so it was very nice to have someone stop by and chat. The present was lovely, I am so thankful.”
Plans are already underway for Christmas 2016, with the goal of delivering more gifts to seniors in our community who are alone over the holiday season.
For more information, please contact:
Brook Latimer, Director
Communications & Engagement
St. Joseph's Care Group
Tel: 807.768.4455
Katrina O'Neill, Executive Director
St. Joseph's Foundation
Tel: 807.768.4402
