Several definitions of the word “joy” are – to rejoice, happiness, a glad feeling, pleasure, and delight. This year we took the “joy” of assisting our 24 homebound seniors to a new level. The outpouring of support from Chamber members and people from throughout the region was amazing! We received food, toiletries, and other items from La Mesa, San Diego, Santee, El Cajon, Jamul, and Spring Valley. To add to this “joyful” experience, we had several donors participate by crocheting blankets and shawls, and others made colorful homemade fleece blankets for our seniors. To complete this year’s “labor of love,” we were honored to receive beautiful handmade Christmas stockings from the Pioneers, a volunteer network of AT&T. These folks work tirelessly throughout the year making these stockings. They deliver them stuffed with items such as – shampoo, conditioner, scarves, socks and more. The Pioneers added a special bonus this year, an adorable stuffed bear that was attached to each stocking!
We are proud to announce the results of this year’s La Mesa Homebound Senior Project. A total of 3,361 items were donated and/or purchased for this year’s project. They were packed for delivery on December 10th into bags donated by: EDCO, Fully Promoted EmbroidMe La Mesa and Sycuan Casino Resort. Some of the totals by category were – non-perishable food items: vegetables, pasta, cereals, soups, sauces, beans, etc. – 1,170 cans or boxes, stationery/writing tablets, paper supplies and calendars – 429 tablets & paper products, toiletries: soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, lotions, etc. – 905 individual items, and blankets/home category – 612 misc. items. This year, we had over 145 gift cards and cash donations allocated to each senior by donors to include in baskets with their delivery. The Chamber assembled all the items into 96 bags/baskets that were decorated with a little holiday flair and ready to be taken to each home.
We are grateful to our sponsors/supporters that helped us put smiles on the faces of our homebound seniors this holiday season: AMR, Linda Bethel, Carl Burger Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM World, EDCO, Fully Promoted EmbroidMe La Mesa, Lily’s Manufactured Homes, Susan McDowell. PenChecks, Inc., Pete’s Place, Sungarden Terrace Retirement Community & Adult Daycare and Sycuan Casino Resort. They were joined by financial donations from Tracey Ferguson and Gloria Shepard, and Bruce and Kimberly McIntyre.
The generosity of the public and our members in supporting this project, is a testament to the love that we all share for our senior population. Our seniors do not ask for much and accept all they are given with a grateful heart. We thank everyone who participated in this year’s project.
Photos courtesy of Sandra Small/ Photographer and the LMPD.