BLACKSBURG – Warm Hearth Foundation’s Silver Santa program is in its sixth year.
Village residents, who rely on low, fixed monthly incomes, or who receive housing or health care subsidies benefit from this program which started as a way to bring joy during the holidays with a friendly visit and a basket full of items tailored to each resident’s needs and wishes. Working with approximately 30 generous donors on campus and in the community, the foundation provided wish list items to 80-plus residents across the campus this year with a value of $6000. Special thanks to River Valley Juniors Volleyball Club who granted the wishes of 27 residents.
Each year participants create their needs/wish lists and philanthropy staff coordinates with donors who may adopt one or more seniors and do the shopping. Residents request food, personal care and pet supplies and maybe a special wish list item which this year included a can opener, a toaster oven, penny loafers, boots, warm clothes, bedding and pajamas.
The sleigh-load of gifts arrived to the Warm Hearth Foundation Dec. 8 and 9 and The WHV Team of Elves, including residents, employees and the President & CEO, gathered at Karr Activity Center to load their sacks and delivered the items door-to-door with a festive holiday spirit on December 12 and 13.
Scott Richards, Director of Hospitality, participated for the first time this year.
“This was an amazing experience. To see the expressions on residents’ faces gave me such joy. One resident was nearly in tears receiving something they so wanted,” he said. “The hair on my neck bristled when I saw how happy residents were. I can’t wait to do it again.”
Resident Sandy Berkowitz expressed her gratitude.
“Thank you to my Silver Santa for Brownie’s new dog bed,” she said. “Brownie is very special to me and it was the one thing that I really wanted. All the gifts were well appreciated.”
As we head into a new year, WHV extends its heartfelt gratitude to all in our community for making such a profound difference in the lives of our residents. We look forward to strengthening these relationships and building new ones. Many thanks to everyone who has contributed to the success and longevity of the Silver Santa program. The Village is grateful to be part of such a generous community. If you’re interested in learning about the Silver Santa program and getting involved next year, reach out to Tina Smith at 540-443-3406.
Warm Hearth Village