Volunteers at The First Baptist Church of Mayville carefully pack gifts for Chautauqua County's "Santa for Seniors" program, ensuring each package brings a bit of holiday cheer to older adults in the community.
MAYVILLE, NY — A heartwarming holiday tradition in Chautauqua County is about to unfold as the nationally recognized "Santa for Seniors" program launches for the 2024 holiday season.
This campaign, organized by the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services with the support of numerous community partners and volunteers, aims to spread joy and a festive meal to over 200 isolated older adults throughout the county.
"During the holiday season, an incredible collaboration takes place among community organizations and dedicated volunteers who gather items, raise funds, carefully pack boxes, and personally deliver them to individuals identified by community and government agencies,” said Dana Corwin, Interim Director of the Office for Aging Services. “We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our community. It’s their generosity and compassion that make 'Santa for Seniors' possible."
Community members at Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church prepare holiday meals as part of the annual "Santa for Seniors" campaign, providing nourishment and joy to isolated older adults.
This year, deliveries will begin in early December, bringing holiday cheer directly to the homes of those in need. The Office for Aging Services partners with The First Baptist Church of Mayville, the Reverend J. Paul Womack Christmas Basket Fund at Hurlbut Memorial Community United Methodist Church, and other local organizations to coordinate this initiative, which brings both gifts and a festive meal to recipients.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have exceptional community partners involved in our Santa for Seniors program,” Corwin shared. “Their dedication and coordination are the driving force behind its success year after year. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our numerous volunteers, the First Baptist Church of Mayville, NY, and the Rev. J. Paul Womack Christmas Basket Fund at Hurlburt Church in Chautauqua, NY for their generous contributions.”
Community support has been invaluable over the years, with donations of gifts, funds, and services. Past contributions include funds from the Mayville Baptist Church and the Rev. J. Paul Womack Christmas Basket Fund, which allowed the program to cover meal and postage expenses. Last year, total costs reached approximately $36 per recipient, and the community’s commitment has continued to grow.
“Santa for Seniors” volunteers deliver gifts and holiday meals, bringing not only necessities but also festive spirit and companionship to seniors in Chautauqua County.
"As W.C. Jones beautifully expressed, 'the joy of brightening others' lives, sharing burdens, lightening loads, and filling empty hearts and lives with generous gifts is the true magic of the holiday season,'" said Corwin. "This sentiment perfectly captures the spirit behind 'Santa for Seniors.'"
Each year, the program strives to reach about 30 new older adults, connecting them with volunteers who deliver gifts and companionship.
"County employees, donors, church members, and all volunteers are warmly encouraged to bring their family members along for the deliveries,” Corwin added, highlighting the importance of personal connections in the program.
How to Contribute:
Donations for this year’s campaign are due by Friday, November 15, 2024. To participate, contact the campaign coordinator at ccsantaforseniors@gmail.com or the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services at 716-753-4582.
Important Dates:
- December 2: Donation sorting
- December 8: Care package preparation
- December 10: Final packing
- December 12: Deliveries begin
If you know of an older adult over the age of 60 who may be alone during the holidays, please nominate them for the program by contacting the NY Connects program at 716-753-4582 or emailing ccnyc@chqgov.com.
About the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services - Under the leadership of Interim Director Dana Corwin, the Office for Aging Services provides essential programs and services for seniors and their families, fostering independence, health, and well-being in a safe environment. To learn more or receive assistance, please visit chqgov.com/office-aging.
