ROCKINGHAM — A Christmas tree has already gone up inside one local coffee shop, decorated with envelopes.
Those envelopes, hanging on the tree inside Nana’s Coffee Rocks, hold the wish lists of more than 50 senior citizens across Richmond County.
This is the fifth year owner Sherry Roberts has participated in Richmond County Aging Services’ Adopt-a-Senior program, starting in 2021 when she was the manager of the Speckled Paw.
Pam Hill, office and nutrition assistant for Aging Services, started the program several years ago, originally focusing on Meals on Wheels recipients. However, it was expanded in 2021 to serve more clients.
This year, there are around 140 seniors on the list.
Hill said seniors are primarily asking for cleaning supplies, paper towels, facial tissue and lotion this year; in addition to things to keep warm, like heaters, toboggans, gloves, flannel pajamas and fleece or heated blankets, as many get cold quicker being on blood thinners.
Some of the seniors being served are homeless and living in their cars, Hill said, and have requested solar chargers.
Other requested items include pillows, nutritional drinks like Boost and Ensure and bottled water, as well as pet food and toys for both cats and dogs.
The deadline to return gifts is Dec. 8. However, Hill said if it needs to be extended, the deadline will be Dec. 15 at the latest.
In addition to the tree, Nana’s Coffee Rocks has a box on the counter for monetary donations to Aging Services.
Residents can also drop off donations at the Richmond County Aging Services office on S. Lawrence Street, next to the Rockingham Fire Department.
Aging Services will be hosting a senior Christmas Party from noon-4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2 at Cole Auditorium. Tickets are still available and $5 each.
The agency is also hosting a canned food drive.
For more information on the Adopt-a-Senior program or other services, call Aging Services at 910-997-4491.
