Holiday Program Helps Waukee Area Senior Citizens

It's a holiday campaign that has far-reaching results for older adults struggling in tough financial times.

"Be a Santa to a Senior," a nationwide assistance program aiding senior citizens who may not have family or other outside support this holiday, has been bringing cheer to millions of senior citizens for seven years. This year it's coming to central Iowa.

Jason Medick, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care office in Waukee, says the program is much needed, especially at a time when even the basics may be hard to come by.

"Many older adults continue to struggle in a down economy, particularly those who live alone with no family nearby to help provide resources," he said.

Home Instead Senior Care, a provider of non-medical in-home care services for senior citizens, teams up with area non-profits to identify those who need a Santa during the holiday season.

"Be a Santa to a Senior" Christmas trees on display in the Dahl's store at 15500 Hickman Road in Clive and the at 6365 Stagecoach Drive in West Des Moines, carry ornaments with the name of a senior citizen and their Christmas list. Shoppers can choose an ornament from the tree, buy the items on the list and return them unwrapped to the store, along with the ornament, where they will then be wrapped and distributed.

"We hope holiday shoppers will open their hearts to those seniors who have given so much to make out community a better place," said Medick.

Shoppers have until Dec. 16 to buy for a senior. Gifts will be wrapped and delivered beginning Dec. 19.

For more information, go to the Be a Santa to a Senior website.