As the holiday season approaches, the annual Operation Christmas Senior gift drive invites community members to help brighten the lives of isolated seniors in nursing homes and long‑term care facilities. Making a senior smile is simple: drop off a gift at one of the local collection sites and let them know they are remembered.
Those wishing to give can donate playing cards, Jenga, dominoes, or large-piece puzzles. Other games, crafts, coloring books, yarn kits, and painting sets are also encouraged, along with hygiene items such as lotion, toothbrushes, and combs. Warm apparel like non‑skid socks, sweatshirts, or shawls is welcome, as are books, reading lights, walker caddies, and notepads.
Donation boxes will be at Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano’s district office (3245 Route 112, Bldg. 2, Suite 6, Medford) and in library lobbies at Brookhaven, Mastics-Moriches-Shirley, Medford, Sachem, and South Country branches.
“Last year was such a huge success, thanks to all of you,” the Assemblyman said in promoting the drive. “I’m proud to partner again with Voices for Seniors to bring a smile this Christmas to the elderly who often go unnoticed.” His office notes that large donation pick‑ups at libraries and sites enable volunteers to shuttle gifts directly to facilities, where they are assembled by Voices for Seniors volunteers and staff.
Voices for Seniors, founded during the early days of the COVID‑19 pandemic, was born of heartbreak when families were locked out of nursing homes and left without recourse. Since 2020, the group has evolved into a nonprofit advocating for transparency, dignity, and accountability in elder care. Its signature program, Operation Christmas Senior, mobilizes supporters across New York to donate gifts for seniors with no family or limited contact.
Organizers hope to fill every collection box and surpass past totals. Visit voicesforseniors.com or call 631‑207‑0073 to ensure no senior feels forgotten.