Editor,

Thank you to our wonderful Whidbey Island community for such generous contributions to the Adopt-a-Senior program. The program serves seniors and individuals with disabilities by providing customized care packages that were delivered just before Christmas. In all, there were more than 50 individuals served — all thanks to the help from our community.

In total, Senior Services collected $11,829 in goods, services and cash donations that will go directly towards helping those in need. Much of this was composed of the amazing gifts provided within the care packages and included things like grocery gift cards, salon gift certificates, food, PSE assistance, clothing and toiletries. The generosity was quite literally breathtaking.

A great team of volunteers made the deliveries. We were met with many surprised faces, tears and hugs. One senior stated that this really made him feel like a part of the Senior Services family. Another stated that he’d never received so many gifts, even as a child. This sentiment was echoed by a senior woman who exclaimed, “Now I know how little kids feel!” She’d lost one of her sons before the holidays many years ago and has struggled ever since. Her other son does not live locally so she spends her holidays alone. “This is like a dream come true.” This woman had a particularly rough year with her health. Her package contained a handmade quilt, a gift card to help her repair her broken furnace and some money to aid with her electric bill.

It is difficult to put into words the amount of appreciation we have towards our community at this moment. We see a great deal of need each day and consistently wish we could do more for our clients. It has been wonderful to see families, individuals and businesses come together to brighten the holidays for those in need. It was an honor to be able to present these gifts on behalf of the sponsors. We couldn’t have done it without the help from so many, and for that we would like to offer our sincerest gratitude towards all who helped make it possible.

CHASITY SMITH

Senior Services of Island County