BROOKINGS – The Neighborhoods at Brookview nursing home is again asking for community donations to help stock the eighth annual Resident Christmas Store. The Neighborhoods are accepting donations from now until Dec. 9.
The Resident Christmas Store, scheduled for Dec. 11 and 12, provides donated items that nursing home residents may choose from free-of-cost to give as presents to their loved ones. The store helps relieve anxiety for residents, many of whom have too limited an income or are unable to travel to stores to buy gifts for their loved ones.
“Thanks to the generosity of our community, last year’s store was absolutely amazing,” Activities Coordinator Amanda Uecker said. “We had enough merchandise in our store that we didn’t need to limit residents to one or two items. They were able to shop for free and find gifts for everyone on their list. We hope with the community’s help we can do the same for residents again this year.”
Because each resident has unique gift needs, The Neighborhoods’ staff always look for an assortment of items to stock the store. Some of the most in-demand presents include knick-knacks; men’s gifts, such as wallets, gloves, cologne and tools; and items for school-aged children like board games, coloring books, Legos and other toys. Monetary donations are also welcomed.
The Neighborhoods also has an ongoing need for gift wrapping supplies, including paper, gift bags, and ribbons, to make residents’ holiday shopping experience complete.
In addition, The Neighborhoods can use extra volunteers to help residents shop or to run gifts. Service groups or individuals who are interested in helping with the store may reach out to Uecker at 696-8716 or auecker@brookingshealth.org. They may also contact Activities Assistant Jessie Kuechenmeister at 696-8753 or jkuechenmeister@brookingshealth.org.
