Associate editor
Perry Seniors Services didn’t let Valentine’s Day slip by without spreading a little love.
The center took orders for bouquets, and Chris Ernst from Trans-Plants donated enough flowers to make 60 arrangements. Volunteers made the bouquets, wrapped them up with bows and cards and then delivered them to homebound seniors and others who could use some extra love.
“For years I have wanted to make sure people feel extra loved on Valentine’s Day,” said Jamie Riedeman with Perry Senior Services. “Most people have family to be around for Christmas, but they might be alone on Valentine’s Day.
“We decided to share some love and flowers (for a donation of $10 or more) with the ones who need it the most. It was simple and impactful. Kind of like everything else Perry Seniors does.
“We try to fight isolation and depression while helping people stay connected to their community. It’s sad when the only interaction with the outside world is through the television.”
The center also ensures that its oldest neighbors have access to medical care and food.
Direct Connect Printing and Digital Services and The Southsider Voice also participated in the program, which Riedeman says will be offered again.
“This was a learning experience for us, and it went very well,” she said. “We’ll have a better idea of what we are doing next year.”