Blessings in a Stocking

Local families, churches, schools and businesses reach out to Traditions at Beaumont residents In the days leading up to Hanukkah and Christmas

This time last year, we celebrated the holidays with gatherings of family and friends, festive traditions and, if we were lucky, an abundance of good health and happiness. No one could have predicted just how lucky we were to hug our loved ones at the holidays.

This year was mostly one of disruption, to our daily routines, our relationships and the way we stayed connected. But it was also a year of resilience, one that’s given us a new appreciation for simple blessings we may have taken for granted.

Traditions at Beaumont, located in Louisville, KY, has made certain its residents will be reminded of life’s blessings this holiday season.

Earlier this month, Johnna Hale, Activities Director at Traditions of Beaumont reached out to its Facebook followers, families of past and current residents, healthcare partners, local businesses and organizations to come through for the seniors in their community.

“Our program is called Blessings in a Stocking because we ask our generous donors to bring us little gifts we can sneak into our residents’ stockings when they’re asleep,” says Johnna. “It’s the little things that really bring a smile to their faces, especially this year.”

Potential donors are asked to drop off small ‘stocking stuffer’ gifts, and Johnna and others on the staff surprise residents in Assisted Living, Memory Care and Independent Living. Popular items include, handwritten cards and letters, hand-drawn pictures from children, candy, playing cards, comfy socks or slippers, gloves, hats, puzzles, word searches and puzzles, lotions, small room decorations, handkerchiefs, notecards and more. Gifts continue to stream in throughout the month of December and are placed in stockings right up until Christmas Day. Perhaps up to New Year’s Day this year.

“You might be surprised at how much joy it brings to a senior’s day to know someone is thinking of them. It really is a blessing.”

To find our more and to donate to the Traditions of Beaumont Blessings in a Stocking program, please visit their Facebook page or find contact information at TraditionsatBeaumont.com. We hope it inspires others to get involved in their own communities. Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and may it be a happy and healthy New Year!