ElderCare has brightened the Christmas season for its clients over the years but has decided to extend its giving program so that seniors can benefit throughout the year.
The Year-Round Senior Collection program officially gets underway Monday, Nov. 17 when donors can begin contributing to the cause.
“We noticed that many of our seniors are facing more challenges than in the past,” said Brandi Gruber, ElderCare executive director. “More than half our clients depend on Medicaid now. In recent years, that percentage was much lower.”
The greatest needs include paper towels; toilet paper; mops, brooms and other cleaning supplies; laundry detergent; toiletries; gift cards for grocery stores and restaurants; and monetary donations.
“We don’t often think about cleaning supplies and paper products,” Gruber said. “But these are real needs because we want our clients to live in clean and safe environments.
“Our wonderful caregivers perform light-to-moderate house-keeping services but have discovered that many people don’t have supplies available. It has become a huge challenge.”
Details
Donations will be accepted from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday until Dec. 17 at Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas Ave.
If drop-off hours are inconvenient, ElderCare makes arrangements for pick-up.
“While we want to collect items to be delivered before Christmas, it is also important that we keep supply shelves full throughout the year,” Gruber commented. “Cash donations are especially helpful because they give us flexibility to respond quickly to certain needs.
“Donors may earmark their contributions for this year-round fund. We will ensure the funds are used as intended.”
Checks should be mailed to ElderCare, P.O. Box 1364, Great Bend, Ks. 67530. “We encourage individuals, businesses, and civic and church groups to get involved,” Gruber said. “You can be assured our seniors will appreciate it.”
A little background
For the past eight years, ElderCare sponsored a Senior Giving Tree at its office. While the non-profit agency will give small gifts to all clients, there won’t be a tree this year.
“Christmas gifts are certainly important but the needs continue long after the holidays are over,” Gruber said. “We are adjusting our approach to better address these ongoing needs, ensuring seniors get our support when they need it most.
“Over the years, the community’s generosity has brought comfort and joy to our clients. They are deeply grateful for this kindness. We hope donors will adapt with us as we work to serve our seniors more effectively and meaningfully.”
For more information, contact Gruber by calling or texting 620-792-5942 or emailing bgruber@eldercareks.org. The ElderCare office is located at 2817 9th in Great Bend.
The non-profit agency’s home-care services include personal care, household tasks and respite for caregivers.
