The Santa to a Senior MTL campaign is back for its second year to uplift West Island seniors' spirits in the direst of times. The West Island Blog had the pleasure of sitting down with Kirkland resident Alana Edwards who spearheaded this initiative.
The goal of the Santa to a Senior initiative is to ensure that no one feels forgotten this holiday season. COVID-19 has disproportionately affected seniors causing many to experience a whole new level of isolation. This initiative is an opportunity for Montrealers to show just how compassionate they can be by spreading holiday cheer to those who otherwise may not have another source of joy or connection. A small, thoughtful gesture can go a very, very long way in improving the life of another, particularly seniors in this instance.
"I just want people to remember that without the people that we're giving these gifts to, without the seniors that are getting them, none of us would be here. It's so important because they are our past and without them, our future and our present wouldn't be here. So it's really important. And we're going to be them one day. We're going to be the seniors. And I, for one, personally do not want to be left alone," Alana said heartfeltly.
With 13 senior residences participating, just over 1000 West Island seniors will be getting a heartwarming gift this year! This selfless gesture could very well be the highlight of their year.
All you have to do is visit one of the designated locations, pick a tag, or two if you can, shop for the item, and return it unwrapped under the tree by closing time on Dec. 1st.
Alana and her team of wrapping elves will take it from there! The presents will be placed in quarantine and delivered to each residence, where they will undergo a second quarantine to ensure the safety of everyone involved before being given to the recipients.
The tree host locations (same for drop-off) are: - Artizan Fashion in Pointe-Claire Village - Calzones (on st-Charles) - Lubrification DDO Inc. Changement d'huile rapide on St-Jeans (LUB DDO formerly known as Pennzoil) - Provigo Le Marché Kirkland
Participating senior residences this year include: - Vigi Pierrefonds - Maison Valeo in Pierrefonds - Chateau Pierrefonds - Pavillion LaSalle - The Wellesley - The Herron - Vivendi - Sunrise DDO - Manoir Kirkland - Manoir Beaconsfield - Bonheur DD (in St-Eustache) - Villa Beaurepaire - Centre Nazaire Piché
The last day to drop off unwrapped presents at any of the four locations listed above is December 1st, 2020 by closing time at each respective location.
Don't forget to shop locally this year while fulfilling a senior's wish! Together, West Islanders can make sure no one feels alone this holiday season!
If you have any questions, please check out the Santa to a Senior MTL Facebook page or reach out to santatoaseniormtl@gmail.com.
Be sure to keep a close eye on the FB page around December 2-3 as last-minute items and/or needs for the initiative may be announced.
