As the community enters the season of giving, Home Instead is calling on the community to help brighten the holidays for older adults who may be feeling isolated or alone. Through the Be a Santa to a Senior program, local community members can spread joy by giving a special holiday gift to seniors who might otherwise go without.

Last year, more than 80 adults received Christmas gifts. This year, the program aims to collect 120 gifts to share the holiday spirit with local seniors once again. 

The program celebrates its 19th year in this area.

How to Get Involved

Community members can participate by visiting a Be a Santa to a Senior tree located at Winn Dixie at Five Points in Valdosta or Food Lion in Hahira. Each tree will feature ornaments with the name and gift wish of an older adult in need. Shoppers can select an ornament, purchase the desired gift(s), return it to the location with the ornament attached. Ornaments will be available through Dec. 18 at which time gifts bags will picked up, checked and a card will be added to each bag (that were made by W.G. Nunn elementary students) so they can be delivered to seniors in time for the holidays.

Local hospices, home health agencies and skilled nursing facilities nurses and social workers helped to identify seniors in need and will help with distribution of the gift bags. 

“A simple, thoughtful gift can bring immense happiness to an older adult who may not have family around to celebrate with, Be a Santa to a Senior is about more than presents—it’s about showing care, love, and letting these individuals know they are not forgotten.” said Justin Anderson, Home Care Consultant with Home Instead of Valdosta.