PICKAWAY COUNTY, OH – For the several years, the Pickaway County Red Cross has been helping to brighten the holiday season for local seniors through its annual Senior Giving Tree charity. This heartwarming initiative supports elderly residents in nursing homes across the county, providing them with gifts that they might not otherwise receive during the holidays.
With over residents in Pickaway County nursing homes this year, the Senior Giving Tree has set up trees featuring the Christmas wish lists of these seniors at nine local locations. The wish lists often consist of basic, everyday items like toiletries, socks, puzzles, hair products, and other small comforts that can make a big difference in the lives of those in long-term care.
The process of participating in the charity is simple and straightforward: community members are invited to pick a tag—or multiple tags—from the trees, purchase the requested items, and then return them in gift bags to WesBanco Bank in Circleville. Instructions, including delivery details and due dates, are attached to the tags. Gifts must be returned by Monday, December 16th to ensure timely delivery before Christmas.
“This charity was created almost 20 years ago by a Red Cross volunteer who saw a need in our local nursing homes,” said Rod Cook, Executive Director of the Red Cross. “What started as a small initiative has grown into something truly special, and we are grateful for the ongoing support from our community.”
The Senior Giving Tree helps fulfill the holiday wishes of seniors who may otherwise be overlooked during the season. The Red Cross’s mission is clear: “To provide holiday cheer to area seniors in nursing homes with the help of the nursing homes’ Activities Directors. We accomplish this through the support of the community in Pickaway County, and any donations will remain in Pickaway County to serve our local community.”
The Senior Giving Trees are currently set up at the following locations across the county:
- WesBanco Bank, Circleville
- Circleville Apothecary
- Ashville Apothecary
- Kingston National Bank, Circleville
- Kingston National Bank, South Bloomfield
- Trinity Lutheran Church, Circleville
- Pickaway County Library, Circleville
- Ashville IGA
- Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, Circleville
Rod Cook encourages everyone to participate: “This is a simple and meaningful way to make a senior’s Christmas special. The need is great, and we are so thankful for the generosity of our community every year.”
With just a few weeks left to shop, the Red Cross invites everyone to visit one of the participating locations, pick up a tag, and make a difference this holiday season.
Gift returns: All gifts must be brought to WesBanco Bank, 1210 North Court Street, Circleville, OH by Monday, December 16th.
For more information or to learn how you can get involved, contact the Pickaway County Red Cross or visit any of the participating locations.
