Twentieth Annual Santa for Seniors program is underway

The Twentieth Annual Santa for Seniors program gets underway this week, offering local residents an opportunity to bring a little Christmas cheer to Lawrence County’s senior citizens and shut-ins.

Santa for Seniors is an annual effort to provide necessities such as food, blankets, warm clothing, and personal care items, for senior citizens and shut-ins throughout Lawrence County. Between 550 and 650 local residents are served through the drive each year. The majority of those are truly in need of assistance. A big concern for many during the winter months is payment of increased utility bills. The token gift that they receive through Santa for Seniors often allows them to divert money they would normally have spent on these items, to pay a heating bill or meet some other immediate need.

When it comes to needs, however, there are all types. The holiday season can be especially depressing for those who may have recently lost a loved one, are experiencing serious health issues, or are caring for an ailing loved one. Sometimes the names of these individuals are submitted in the hopes of bringing them a little holiday cheer.

The success of Santa for Seniors lies entirely in the hands of the community as a whole. Media outlets county-wide offer support each year by publicizing important dates, information, application forms, and lists of needs. Many businesses, industries, churches, clubs, and even local school children host collection drives that greatly boost the program. Individuals and families throughout Lawrence County donate each year, as well.

Another group key to the success of Santa for Seniors is its volunteers. The program runs only for about three weeks each year which tends to make the atmosphere somewhat frenzied. A core group of volunteers dedicates many hours to the cause, assisted by other volunteers who help to sort, pack and deliver.

The donation period for this year’s drive begins Friday, November 25 and runs through Monday, December 12. Anyone who wishes to contribute may drop items off at WLX radio station located at 1212 North Locust Avenue in Lawrenceburg. Gently-used items (such as coats, blankets, and microwave ovens) in good condition are also accepted.

The greatest need for volunteers will be from Wednesday through Friday, December 14 through 16. Packing begins at around noon on Wednesday and continues until finished. On Thursday, volunteers complete last minute packing, fill in where needed, and match larger items to recipients. Pickup runs from noon until 3:00 p.m. Thursday. Delivery begins promptly at 3:00 p.m. Thursday and continues throughout the day on Friday, and often Saturday.

The operation is set up in the rear portion of the WLX building (Country Café area) located at 1212 North Locust Avenue, and all volunteers should use the back entrance (double glass doors).

For inclusion in the program fill out the application form and mail to: Santa for Seniors, 180 Orton Road, Lawrenceburg, TN 38484, or you may apply online by clicking on this link.

For further information contact Sandi Mashburn at 931-629-0240, or Barry Mashburn at 931-629-2181. Email inquiries may be sent to: info@lawrenceburgnow.com. (Please call the numbers listed rather than WLX or the Lawrence County Advocate.)