Seniors spread holiday cheer with care packages for the homeless

Residents of The Watermark at Vistawilla, a senior living community in Winter Springs, are spreading holiday cheer by making care packages for the homeless population this year.

A handful of residents met on December 13 and assembled the packages, which included essential hygiene items like shampoo, soap, and deodorant, along with warm socks, non-perishable snacks, and handmade knitted scarves. Each package also included a handwritten note where residents expressed their heartfelt wishes for the recipients.

"We believe it's crucial to cultivate a spirit of giving at all stages of life," said Kimberly Dike, Community Life Director at The Watermark at Vistawilla. "By focusing on the needs of others, we encourage our residents to remain engaged with their community and experience the joy of making a positive impact."

This is the third year that residents at The Watermark at Vistawilla have created care packages for the local homeless. The project started to support veterans experiencing homelessness and has now expanded to assist a wider population. The community partnered with the Sharing Center on the project and delivered the care packages on December 16.

“We’re so proud of our residents who go out of their way to show compassion and community to others,” said Dike. “By providing essential items and a touch of holiday cheer, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of others.”

About The Watermark at Vistawilla

Located in Winter Springs, Fla., The Watermark at Vistawilla is an 87-apartment assisted living and memory care community located at 1519 E State Rd 434. Differentiators of the new community include certified associates, continuous care and hands-on educational programming. Owned and managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Watermark at Vistawilla is committed to creating an extraordinary community where people thrive. For more information, visit vistawilla.watermarkcommunities.com.