Since 2004, the volunteers who participate in the Elves for Elders program have not simply provided holiday gifts – they provide hope and joy for more than 500 seniors in our community each year. During the season that is supposed to be the happiest time of the year, there are many older adults who do not have anyone to share it with. These people are alone through the holiday season, feeling forgotten and hopeless
Many REAL Services clients don’t have extra funds for things like slippers or a warm robe, let alone daily necessities. Even sadder, many lack social systems and family who are able or willing to give them gifts and/or a visit during the holiday season. Elves for Elders fills this gap.
What is Elves for Elders? Generous people throughout our community (The Elves) purchase “wish list” items for a REAL Services’ client and drop them off at a REAL Services office in Plymouth. These “Purchasing Elves” have a personal, hands-on experience in making the holidays better for someone else.
Then a volunteer “Delivery Elf” delivers the gifts. Clients not only receive the gifts but a much anticipated visit. Gift bags are delivered directly to the client’s home by a caring volunteer who just wants to spread some holiday cheer. Once the deliveries are made, the seniors know that someone has remembered them during the holidays.
REAL Services is once again looking for a few good “Elves”.
Elves for Elders is a great opportunity for a family or group to make a difference in someone’s life over the holidays.
We have identified a significantly large amount of seniors in need for the 2017 Elves for Elders program and we could use your help to spread the word to your family, friends, and/or colleagues.
If you are interested in delivering or adopting a REAL senior client(s) this year, please email allen2@realservices.org or call 574-284-7138.
