The holidays can be an especially isolating time of year for some seniors, and the pandemic has only exaggerated the problem. One local organization is trying to help by encouraging Central Oregonians to “Be a Santa to a Senior” in time for Christmas.

Gloria Vloedman, with Home Instead, says they host this annual effort year to make sure seniors feel loved. She tells KBND News this year has been especially tough for those without family nearby, “That big fear of catching COVID, so there’s a lot of hesitation to go do activities that they maybe once enjoyed.”

To get involved, find a Home Instead tree, select a tag and shop for that senior. There are 13 trees around Central Oregon. Vloedman says recipients are selected by organizations like Meals on Wheels and Central Oregon Veterans Outreach, “So, a lot of these folks are in their own home or they’re in a low income 55 and older apartment complex.”

Most want simple gifts like socks,  blankets and chocolate. Unwrapped gifts must be returned to the tree by December 24th. Click HERE for more information.