More than a few hearts were melted in Bradford and Innisfil Wednesday.
South Simcoe Police Service staff and Auxiliary officers teamed with several community organizations and volunteers to launch the Winter Warmup campaign at the South Division station Jan. 10.
This initiative, organized by Special Constable Elisabeth Aschwanden, aimed to distribute 100 surprise gift bags to seniors living within the department's coverage area that morning and afternoon. It’s all about spreading kindness and letting older residents know they are loved and appreciated, she said.
“Winter months are really dark and cold,” Aschwanden said. “We thought this would be a really great way to give a little warmth and light until the flowers start coming.”
Gift bags included soup, lip balm, tea and hand-knitted hearts, as well as brochures about community programs. Items were donated by The Elden of Bradford, Holland Gardens Retirement Residence, 211 Community Connection and CONTACT Community Services.
And Aschwanden’s mom made the hearts.
“I’m hoping this puts a little smile on their faces,” said Aschwanden of the recipients.
Ideally, those helped today will try to pay it forward to others when they can, she said.
The seniors chosen were nominated by community members and friends.
“We’re supporting the seniors living in our residence and in the community,” said Elden sales and marketing manager Jaime Robertson, one of a handful of volunteers helping to distribute the bags. “They are the friends, the family members of our residents. We like to spread a little bit of cheer and let them know we’re thinking about them. We love doing it. They’re going to discover a nice little treat on their doorstep or in their mailbox. Hopefully, it’ll bring them some joy. Who doesn’t love to know that somebody’s just thinking of them?”
Aschwanden hopes this can become an annual campaign.
