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Coming together on Valentine’s Day with Boxes of Love
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Courtesy photo Kindergarten through third grade students from Holy Family school in Great Bend made Valentines for United Way’s Box of Love project for their service project. They presented them to United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director Charell Owings on Monday.

United Way of Central Kansas, with support from presenting sponsor TruStage, and partnership from AllStaff Chtd and The University of Kansas Health System, presents the annual Box of Love project – a heartwarming initiative designed to deliver Valentine’s Day surprises to homebound seniors in Barton and Pawnee Counties.

Boxes of Love will be delivered to seniors who receive Meals on Wheels or ElderCare Home Services. UWCK also collaborates with Golden Belt Home Health and Hospice and local senior centers and nursing homes to share these thoughtful gifts.

Last year, 450 boxes were delivered, and the goal is to send out 500 boxes this year. There is also an opportunity to purchase a Box of Love for a neighbor, family member, or friend who could use a pick-me-up this time of year. 

Each Box of Love is thoughtfully prepared with a mix of fun and useful items, designed to bring joy and practicality to the recipient’s life. Boxes will include a toothbrush with toothpaste donated by Heart of Kansas Family Health Care, a magnet donated by 4Imprint with information about 211. The University of Kansas Health Center donated pens and lip balm for each package and Mary Kay consultant Nancy Sundahl donated hand cream. The Box of Love will also feature a puzzle book, deck of cards, notebook, and chocolates. In addition, United Way thanks Walmart, Stueder Contractors and Thrivent Financial for their generous donations in helping fill the bags and fund this event. From comforting treats to small everyday essentials, these boxes are crafted to make Valentine’s Day extra special, sponsors said.  

Community partnerships make this project truly special. UWCK works with daycare centers, schools, youth organizations, and individuals to create homemade Valentine’s Day cards for every Box of Love. These heartfelt messages add a personal and meaningful touch to each package, bringing warmth and connection to the recipients. 

The athletic training group at Barton Community College volunteered to help assemble the boxes. “The Box of Love project is a wonderful way for the community to come together and show our appreciation for our homebound seniors. It’s a small gesture that can make a significant impact on the lives of those who may feel isolated,” said Charell Owings, executive director at United Way of Central Kansas.  

For only $15, spread love and cheer this Valentine’s Day by purchasing a Box of Love for someone special. Orders will be accepted through February 10. To order go to https://www.uwck.org/box-love.