In 2020 the Santa for Seniors program changed to Stocking Stuffers for Seniors, in Partnership with London Drugs. General Manager Shannon Hubick initiated the new program.
The Be A Santa To A Senior program originated with Home Instead Senior Care to provide holiday gifts to isolated seniors who may otherwise go without a gift during the holiday season.
Meals on Wheels was approached by Don Henke approximately 10 years ago and has been partnering with Home Instead Senior Care and its Santa for a Senior program ever since.
For seniors without loved ones the holiday season can be a very lonely time and Seniors faced with the high cost of living can find they have little left at the end of the year.
Residents in the Central Okanagan are encouraged to pick up an ornament from Christmas trees set up at London Drugs in both Kelowna and West Kelowna.
Each ornament contains the first name of a senior and a suggested gift.
People can take an ornament, buy the item(s) suggested and return it to the same location unwrapped.
Our Meals on Wheels Volunteers help deliver the gifts.
"Be A Santa To A Senior is another way to say 'thank you' to the many seniors who have made such important contributions to our community throughout the year. Helping an older adult can bring fulfillment to the giver as well as the receiver - it does make a difference."