LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A new community effort is making sure local seniors feel remembered this Valentine's Day.
West Texas Training has partnered with Lakeridge Nursing Home for Adopt a grandparent, a program that connects residents with people willing to donate gifts or spend time with them.
A decorated tree, similar to an Angel Tree but dedicated to Valentine's Day, holds hearts with details about each senior, including their favorite drinks, clothing sizes, hobbies, and whether they'd like a visitor.
Additional tickets on the tree request donations for board games, activities, and special Valentine's Day treats.
Ashley Terrell, co-owner of West Texas Training, said the idea originally started with just one person, but after strong interest on social media, it expanded to more residents.
"I've worked in long-term care for a long time and at that age, they no longer think about monetarily things or rather their pants are brand new, by the way, yes, you can bring in used items. They don't care about those things; they need somebody to talk to," Terrell said.
Lakeridge Activity Director Vanessa Rodriguez said the program is especially meaningful for seniors who don't have family nearby.
"It's heartbreaking sometimes because you see a lot of family members come in for the holiday event and you see the ones that just sit there and don't have family. "
There are 60 tickets available, 25 for individual residents and the rest for general donations. The program runs from Monday until Thursday.