George Brown
All of us are affected by the shaky economy, whether at the gas pump, the grocery store, or determining how low we can set the thermostat. These worries have an even larger impact on older adults on low fixed incomes.

As prices go up many find it difficult to buy the most basic personal and household items they need. I’m not talking about luxury items like buying new bedroom furniture or remodeling the bathroom. The items many older adults can’t afford are more basic, like sheets and blankets, washcloths and towels, personal care items, or a grab-bar to safely use the bathtub.

You can help bring a little cheer into the life of an older person this holiday season through the Adopt-a-Senior Program of Clermont Senior Services. We are seeking donations from the business community, churches, community groups, families, and individuals. Examples of items needed include vacuum cleaners, crock pots, blankets, dishes, pots and pans, hand-held showers, grocery gift cards, clothing, and much more.

Some donors prefer to make a financial donation for our staff to buy the items seniors need. Others like to be matched with a senior and do the shopping themselves. These donors receive the first name of the senior and a five item wish list of things the senior needs.

Donors can also just go shopping and buy basic things they know any senior could use around the house. We put these items in our “gift pantry” for staff to prepare gift boxes for seniors who are not specifically adopted, or to meet last minute needs.

Most donors drop their gifts off at our main office on James E. Sauls Sr. Drive, or at one of our senior centers. We can also pick items up, such as at a business where employees have collected a large quantity of gifts.

All of the Adopt-a-Senior gifts are delivered during the holiday season by our staff and volunteers. We can always use more volunteers, so you may want to share your time helping, as well. I’ve personally helped deliver Adopt-a-Senior gifts in the past and know how much the gifts are appreciated. One senior summed it up well, “Thanks for being such a help to me. I’m grateful and so happy to have nice people in my life.”

If you can help with the Adopt-a-Senior Program this year, please call our Volunteer Specialist, Connie Landock, at (513) 536-4021, or e-mail her at clandock@clermontseniors.com.

George Brown is the executive director of Clermont Senior Services.