While many of us have been getting ready for the holiday season, for the past month seniors at the TriCounty Active Adult Center (formerly the Pottstown Area Seniors’ Center) have been busy stitching nearly 1,000 holiday stockings to be sent to deployed service members through Operation Christmas.
“The holiday season is a time when we reflect on our good fortunes and seek ways to help those in need,” explained Sue McIntyre, assistant executive director of the TriCounty Active Adult Center. “For our troops serving overseas, the holidays are a reminder that they are away from those they love. We hope our stockings remind the soldiers that they are appreciated, especially at this time of year.”
The idea for this community service project came from a few seniors who have been corresponding with deployed soldiers through a pen pal program.
“It feels great to be able to give a little something to brighten a soldiers’ holiday. They make so many sacrifices for us, I hope this helps make their holiday a little happier,” said Marjorie McElroy, a volunteer who stitched more than 200 stockings.
The seniors are also signing holiday cards that will be sent along with the stockings. Once the stockings arrive at the Operation Christmas Headquarters they will be filled with the items that the soldiers need the most, such as toiletries, candy, and food. For many soldiers, the stocking may be the only package they receive during the holidays.
Volunteer opportunities is just one facet of the many activities available at the TriCounty Active Adult Center, which serves adults age 50 and better with programs and services including information and referral assistance, a daily lunch, exercise programs, social activities, and much more. Formerly known as the Pottstown Area Seniors’ Center, the mission of the TriCounty Active Adult Center is to enhance the well-being of its members by providing services and activities that promote an independent and healthy lifestyle.
The TriCounty Active Adult Center has nearly 3,000 members residing in the tri-county area. Anyone living in the tri-county area (Berks, Chester and Montgomery Counties) who is 50+ years of age is welcome to attend the center. Learn more at www.TriCountyAAC.org.
