As the new year begins in Illinois, State Sen. Donald DeWitte (R-St. Charles) is launching his second annual “Valentines for Seniors” card drive.
To ensure seniors know they are an important and valued part of the community, Sen. DeWitte is asking students from public and private schools, church groups, scouting organizations, and other groups to create homemade cards that will be delivered to assisted living centers, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities across the 33rd Senate District.
“The response to this program last year exceeded all expectations, as my office collected and distributed more than 3,700 cards,” said Sen. DeWitte. “The smiles on the faces of senior citizens when the cards were delivered were priceless. My goal this year is to collect at least 5,000 cards.”
Cards, poems, and other well-wishes will be collected between now and Feb. 7 at the Senator’s West Dundee office, located at 641 S. 8th Street in West Dundee. Those dropping off cards in person can place them in the Valentine box located inside the office door during business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or in a small mailbox that will be placed outside of the office during off-hours. Cards can also be mailed.
“Last year, we were able to bring smiles to senior citizens at 22 different assisted living centers and nursing homes,” added Sen. DeWitte. “When my staff and I dropped off large bags of Valentines, it was evident that the seniors felt special, appreciated, and cherished. Loneliness can be a real issue for the elderly, especially as the pandemic continues to limit the amount of time they can spend with loved ones. Let’s all do our part to bring some joy to seniors, so they know we’re thinking of them.”
In 2021, Senate Republicans collected and delivered more than 45,000 Valentines through the statewide “Valentines for Seniors” program.