Giving Tree Program Brightens Holidays for North Shore Centers
North Shore Health staff members came together to fulfill holiday wishes for 100 residents at Hayward Health Services, Mineral Point Health Services, and Rib Lake Health Services.
This last December, the North Shore Cares Committee and Support Center gave back to our skilled nursing centers through an annual Giving Tree Program. Employees purchased gifts from an Amazon Wish List, with items carefully chosen by the centers based on residents’ needs and wants for the holiday season.
Rib Lake Health Services spoke with each resident, learning that the most requested items were hats and mittens, clothing, personal care products, coloring books, snacks, and drinks. The center received approximately 70 gifts for 35 residents, which were distributed by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and staff at their holiday party. One resident even shared that he, “has never had better Christmas gifts.”
Being chosen as a recipient of the Giving Tree left the residents and staff “flabbergasted,” said Rib Lake Sr. Executive Director Dana Decker. The generosity of the community removed any worry the center had about whether they could provide enough gifts for the residents.
“To receive every present our residents requested is truly unprecedented!” she said. “The responses from our residents and families about receiving the ‘best gifts’ and having such a fantastic party speak for themselves. It was an unforgettable time with the best turnout we’ve ever had.”
Mineral Point estimated that residents received more than 100 gifts! Thirty residents excitedly unwrapped baby dolls, mugs, candy, puzzles, and blankets at their Christmas party, feeling loved and grateful from the community and North Shore Health staff.
“We want to thank everyone who purchased gifts,” said Mineral Point Executive Director Patricia Reynolds. “Thank you so much for your kindness! You made our day brighter!”
At Hayward Health Services, 35 residents were fortunate enough to receive two or three gifts, thanks to an estimated 67 items purchased between Activities Department staff members Kimberly Bavis, Brittany Jarvis, and Heather Andrews, and Business Office Manager Lee Ann Kritch. They compiled a list of items the residents liked by building relationships and understanding their preferences.
“We truly enjoy being able to sit down with our residents and just having conversations, getting to know who they truly are and what makes them tick,” said Hayward Executive Director Tess Engel.
Gifts were wrapped, labeled, and noted that they were from “Santa,” and passed out by staff on Christmas Day. The moment was truly magical, as some residents are unable to leave the facility for the holidays or do not get other visitors or gifts. Being a recipient of the Giving Tree made Hayward’s residents feel loved.
“Residents were able to experience special recognition, reminded them they are seen, valued and most importantly, remembered during the holiday season,” Engel said. “This program helped not only the residents, but our Interdisciplinary Team come together on a different level to assist in creating a different level of spirit and emotional well-being for our residents. Staff had the opportunity on Christmas Day to be a part of creating smiles, conversation, and further connection.”
Thank you North Shore Health employees for supporting residents through the Giving Tree Program. You helped to make a difficult season for some brighter in many ways!
