By Olivia McDonald

Stuffing Stockings To Make Seniors Smile

Nov 30, 2018 | 2:55 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Not everyone is lucky enough to wake up to a stocking full of presents on Christmas morning, but London Drugs is trying to change that for local seniors.

“Stuffing Stockings for Seniors” is an initiative that started in the Okanagan more than three years ago and Prince George is taking part for their second year in a row.

“The seniors were as thrilled as we were if not more,” says Recreation Therapist, Lynn AuCoin. “Some of the lists were so personalized, I can remember one that said a Rolling Stone magazine, a red nail polish and that’s exactly what showed up for that particular resident on Christmas morning and they were over the moon. It was just so personalized, so wonderful, it brightened Chirtmas, just unbelievable.”

Last year only seniors from Gateway Lodge took part but due to overwhelming support, Rainbow and Jubilee Lodge have joined in. Each participant gets to make a list of things they want or need, and that list is hung on a Christmas tree inside London Drugs for anyone to pick up.

“When I actually get an opportunity to speak to a customer that comes in and wants to partake in it, it’s actually quite emotional for them,” adds Manager of London Drugs, Christian Shenk.

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“I was actually speaking to a lady last night and her daughter and was explaining the program and how many facilities we’re touching across Canada and her reaction was ‘You’re going to make me cry.’ So it is a very warm sort of feeling for the customers and they really truly appreciate what’s going on.”

The holiday season can be a lonely time for seniors that don’t have many family members around. AuCoin says when seniors are lonely, it can impact their mental and physical health.

“I think a big thing in our situation, all of our seniors are in care. Some of our residents have amazing families that visit regularly but being in care can be quite difficult for some of our residents. Christmas time can be quite lonely and it’s not always a festive time of the year for everybody. This was just a way to brighten Christmas day up for our residents.”

The last day to take part in purchasing stocking stuffers is December 10th before they are organized and delivered to seniors Christmas morning.

by Olivia McDonald

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Stuffing Stockings To Make Seniors Smile

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