Thanksgiving cheer!

ElderFriends finds a safe way to continue the tradition

On Thanksgiving Day 2020, ElderFriends’ 25^th annual holiday delivery took on a fresh form to ensure safety for elders and volunteers during the pandemic. Though we eliminated in-home visits, in many ways the event was even more meaningful to our isolated elder participants this year!

As normal, we offered a holiday meal (prepared by Operation Sack Lunch) and social connection to those who would otherwise be alone for the holiday. In all, 27 delivery volunteers and 2 distribution volunteers ensured that 63 elders received a meal and goodies through cheerful no-contact deliveries followed up with friendly phone calls.

Elders tell us that this delivery was a welcome delight at a time when connection can’t be taken for granted and feelings of belonging are truly life-giving. Turns out a Smize (Smile with your eyes) goes a long way!

We are grateful for our volunteers and donors who made the magic happen through their contributions:

Operation Sack Lunch

Ballard Blossom

Fred Meyer – Ballard

Bertschi School First Graders

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – Lambda Alpha Zeta Chapter

Leaves of Gratitude contributors

Volunteers Gayle, Cheryl, Julie and Carolyn