Every year one of the East Bay programs in the Gratitude Chapter of Northern California partner with the men from the WETSU Sacramento chapter to organize a Christmas event in December. SNOW (Seniors Need Our Warmth) is what it’s called. For over ten years, this amazing group of dedicated volunteers create a memorable Christmas for all of the seniors that reside in the Martinez Convalescent Hospital.
There are about 27-35 seniors that we open our hearts to for an absolutely unforgettable Holiday Season! Through social media and word of mouth, everyone is invited to share the magic with the special women and men at Martinez Convalescent Hospital and experience their joy when they see how much people care.
The seniors provide us with a wish list which is fulfilled by individuals and families from all around. For people that wanted to contribute but could not adopt a senior we accepted gift cards and monetary donations that helped to purchase additional gifts, food and decorations. Santa Claus came to visit with little elves to hand out gifts. We had an amazing blue grass (6 piece) band, “Spinning Wheels” in the common room and a phenomenal banjo player that went from room to room with the Christmas carolers.
The food was abundant, the decorations were beautiful and all of the seniors were smiling, singing or crying tears of joy. It was really a sight to see. We met some fantastic people and created some amazing memories which they were all too happy to share. The director sent me a message to pass on “Thank you for today, it was a beautiful day. Thank you all for Caring…God Bless you all”
Submitted by Terri A., Gratitude Chapter
