By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter
Shrewsbury – The Council on Aging recently announced “Gifts for Seniors,” a new initiative by a group of volunteers who call themselves the “In It Together Volunteer Group.” They came together because they realize that the pandemic has changed the way everyone has had to adapt. Especially hard hit is the senior population; many of whom are experiencing isolation.
As such, the group is organizing a holiday gift collection and are seeking donations so that Shrewsbury seniors know that they are not forgotten.
“We’ve had numerous requests from volunteers that have reached out to us during the pandemic that want to help us out,” remarked Hollie Lucht, director of the Council on Aging.
She explained that one volunteer in particular named Paula, who wished to remain anonymous, and a few of her friends have joined together to form the “In it Together Volunteer Group” to help seniors in the community feel less alone during the upcoming holiday season.
From now until Tuesday, Dec. 15, the group will be collecting donated gifts. Items can be dropped off in the designated bins at the front entrance of the Shrewsbury Senior Center located at 98 Maple Ave.
Lucht said, “All items should be new, with tags and can easily be purchased at the Dollar Store.”
Suggested gift ideas include: holiday cards (handmade or bought,) non-skid socks, sugar-free candy, diet and regular ginger ale, adult coloring books and pencils, granola bars, cookies, crackers, bottled water, cereal, peanut butter, large print crosswords, word search books, toiletry items, coin purse, flashlight, stuffed animal, blankets, mittens, combs, brushes, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, or gift cards.
For more information contact Paula at [email protected]. or Hollie Lucht at the Senior Center 508-841-8642.
