The holiday season is a time of giving, and AgSouth Farm Credit is once again making spirits bright through their annual "Santa for a Senior" program. This year, the initiative is partnering with CenterWell Home Health, Action Pact Senior Center, and a family in North Carolina that lost their home to Hurricane Helene.
Additionally, the program donated over 80 blankets to local nursing homes, spreading warmth and cheer to those in need.
“This has been a difficult year for everyone. If we can make someone’s Christmas a little brighter by giving them a blanket or a space heater, or even a new pair of pajamas, then we want to fulfill that wish or need,” said Shanna Smith, Executive Assistant for AgSouth. “It’s heartwarming knowing that we have taken a burden off a senior that needs a walker or wheelchair but cannot afford it.”
This year, the program featured 45 individual tags representing specific gift requests from seniors, as well as bulk items needed by the Senior Center. Popular requests included blankets, bedding, clothes, shoes, medical equipment, and gift cards for food or medication.
For the Senior Center, AgSouth supplied space heaters, walkers, canes, adult diapers, and more. The family in North Carolina received bedding, cookware, and other essentials to help them rebuild after their devastating loss.
One moving example of a tag request read: “Female tag: medium adult diapers, pajamas, bedroom shoes.” Another asked for a Scooby-Doo blanket. “To think that someone’s Christmas wish is for a blanket or a pair of pajamas puts into perspective how fortunate we really are,” Smith reflected.
AgSouth’s commitment to the program is made possible by the collective efforts of its 66 Statesboro office employees and the generosity of the community. Employees contribute by making monetary donations, purchasing items, and organizing and distributing the gifts.
The community plays an equally vital role, with support from organizations like Ellis Wood, The Caring Closet, and many private citizens and customers.
“We couldn’t do this without everyone’s help,” said Smith. “It’s amazing to see how people come together to meet the need of a stranger. We’re grateful for all the support Santa for a Senior has received and look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come.”
Through their ongoing efforts, AgSouth is not only bringing joy to local seniors and families but also fostering a sense of community and compassion that embodies the true spirit of the holiday season.
