485 homebound seniors are receiving holiday cheer this year

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Spread some joy this season. (Home Instead)

485 lonely or low-income seniors who might otherwise go without any gifts or visitors during the holidays are receiving some cheer this year. Read on to learn how Home Instead Senior Care and the United Way Meals on Wheels program in Jefferson County are brightening the holidays for these deserving seniors.

Bringing joy to seniors this season

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Home Instead takes donations to fill hundreds of bags. (Home Instead)

The holiday season is known for its festive and happy atmosphere, but for seniors who are lonely or isolated, it can be just the opposite.

That’s why the Be a Santa to a Senior program was created—to help people in need by providing gifts that may be the only present they receive during the holiday season.

This year, Home Instead partnered with Meals on Wheels of Jefferson County (MOW) and United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) to collect donations and deliver 485 bags across the Birmingham metropolitan area. Each year, this is an incredible way to give back to the community and do something nice during the holidays.

Learn how you can get involved with Meals on Wheels and make a difference this year.

What’s in the bags?

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The bags are full of ten items each. (Callie Puryear / Bham Now)

The event has been happening each year in Birmingham for 17 years and is a holiday staple in the community. These gifts, while small, make a big impact and help local seniors beat the holiday blues.

After asking seniors to identify items on their wish lists, the gift bags are filled with 10 items each including things like:

  • gloves
  • calendars
  • blankets
  • combs
  • puzzles
  • bath towels
  • slippers
  • even toiletry items such as shaving cream and shampoo

Volunteer with Meals on Wheels

MOW 485 homebound seniors are receiving holiday cheer this year
The MOW truck had to make a few trips to fit all of the bags. (Callie Puryear / Bham Now)

Be a Santa to a Senior is one of the best ways to give back during the holidays, but Meals on Wheels needs volunteers all year long to improve the lives of homebound seniors and disabled individuals throughout Jefferson County by delivering meals and hope to those in need.

We’ve volunteered with MOW and can tell you, it’s a great way to spend a few hours doing good while having fun.

Whether you join as a volunteer, partner through charitable giving or refer someone you know who could benefit from Meals on Wheels’ services, you’ll be making a very real difference in others’ lives.

Get involved and sign up today. Not only will you make a difference in the life of a homebound senior, but you could also be Santa in 2023!

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Callie Puryear
Callie Puryear
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