Residents of Southern Manor Senior Living in Statesboro and Candler-Metter shared sunshine after the storm recently when they got together to create treat bags for the local heroes of the day: utility linemen in town to restore power after Hurricane Helene.
“[Southern Manor in] Statesboro did not lose power, but [Southern Manor in] Metter did for days,” shared Barbara Eloi, Lifestyle Director. "Our seniors prepared and delivered gift bags in a heart-warming act of gratitude with appreciation to the dedicated linemen who worked tirelessly to restore power after Helene’s immeasurable winds blew throughout our community.”
In preparation to give-back, 30+ senior residents (both locations) circled the activity tables preparing and stuffing 100 gift bags with love and prayers. Each bag was filled with crackers, granola bars, lollipops and a refreshing Gatorade. A tag was added, saying, “Thank you from the residents of Southern Manor. We pray for you.”
Mission-bound, the residents hopped into the limousine (Southern Manor’s preferred mode of transportation).
“We drove around looking for our precious recipients to deliver 100 treat bags with love and smiles. Each lineman was so appreciative of us thinking about them. It was great meeting them in person. Many were from other states, which was pretty neat," Eloi shared.
“It's a blessing to be able to give to these men,” said Linda Cantrell, resident.
The Southern Manor residents brought smiles to the linemen's faces knowing their hard work had not gone unnoticed. The treat bags, with 50 passed out in Statesboro and 50 passed out in Metter, were a reminder of the community's gratitude.
“We may not be bringing them much, but it's from the heart,” resident Glenda Grice added.
Like so many of us, the leaders at Southern Manor watched humbly as our community came together during this horrific time, and they were thankful to be able to play a small part in the recovery effort. Not only did it put a smile on the faces of the tired linemen; it also put a smile on the faces of the residents.
“Our seniors at Southern Manor Group are continuing to give back where they can. We always have a way to help, no matter our age or condition,” Ralph Cowart, Owner and CEO of Southern Manor, shared. "And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Hebrews 13:16)"
