MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) –Valentine’s Day can be a lonely occasion for many seniors, but this year, 767 seniors across the Grand Strand received homemade Valentine’s Day cards.
Senior Helpers of Myrtle Beach, an in-home senior care center, started collecting the homemade cards in January from community members, schools, and local organizations.
The goal of the “Dear Senior” card drive is to help seniors in the community reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.
In the United States, a silent epidemic of loneliness and social isolation persists, particularly among the elderly population.
Faith Sanders, the family care director, said the initial goal was to collect 500 cards.
“It was just it was very heartwarming that the community came together like that,” Sanders said. “And it just shows what an amazing community we live in.”
A portion of the Valentine’s Day cards were hand-delivered to seniors at Active Day, an adult day care center located in Myrtle Beach.
Rachel Trach, Program Manager at Active Day of Grand Strand, emphasized the importance of seniors feeling loved and remembered, especially on Valentine’s Day.