Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
If you are feeling like spreading the Christmas Spirit and have some extra resources to share, Town of Peace River has a special opportunity for community members to Adopt-a-Grandparent.
“(This) program is to bring cheer to a senior who might be feeling isolated during the holiday season,” explains seniors’ service coordi- nator Amina Usman.
“It’s a community initiative program, donated gift bags are delivered to seniors in Peace River, including those living in the community, residents of Heritage Towers, Points West Living and Sutherland Place.”
Usmas says community members can pick up bags from Baytex Energy Centre in Peace River, fill the bags with gifts between Nov. 13 and Dec. 15, and then return the filled bags by Dec. 16.
“Our elves will deliver the gifts,” says Usman, adding the program takes place every year.
“Great gifts to give include mittens, socks, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, face cloths, unscented lotion and soaps, puzzle books, gift cards for local businesses, and nonperishable food items,” she adds.
Usman says gifts could go to either a male or female, so it’s best to try to select unisex items when purchasing.
“(This program is) primarily to combat the significant loneliness and isolation many seniors experience during the holidays and because it provides a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose for the givers themselves,” says Usman.
In 2024, the Town of Peace River helped gather and deliver over 180 gift bags to seniors at Christmas. Usman says the target this year is to deliver between 180-200 gifts.
Gift bags can be picked up from Baytex Energy Centre Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., or Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.
Usman says gifts can be individually wrapped and personal greeting cards can be included.
If you would like more information about the program, please phone Usman at (780) 624-1000 extension 1030 or email her at ausman @peaceriver.ca.