Wrapping up wishes for seniors

That’s a wrap!

Months of fundraising and donation collections culminate this Thursday for the Seniors Wish Association’s Christmas Wish program.

Communications director Lucille Dalziel says literally hundreds of volunteers will sort, bag, wrap and label gifts to be given out to seniors in Simcoe County at Christmas.

“We will be able to give personalized gifts to over 35 hundred seniors this year, the most ever. Part of that is because the need is growing and part is because our programs are now well known in the communities," she said. "We continue to expand adding Clearview Township to our locations including Barrie, Innisfil, Orillia, Oro-Medonte and Muskoka. 

"Someday, we hope to be province-wide.”

Gifts are given to seniors in their own homes and in both retirement and long-term care facilities, where officials make it known to the organization which seniors may be alone at the holidays.

Thursday from 5:30 pm. to 9 p.m., the public is welcome to come to the Barrie branch of the Royal Canadian Legion on St. Vincent Street and take part in the event. Businesses donate food and refreshments.

“Wrap-up night becomes a true family event," Dalziel said. "Everyone just comes together and we get it all done in one night. It is a true outpouring of love.”

The group is still looking for a few more donations of nightgowns and pyjamas and slippers for men and women. 

Financial donations are also welcome at www.aseniorwish.com.