Charity will take care of patients at Christmas
By Staff Reports
Published in News on November 15, 2015 3:05 AM
The spirit of Christmas it getting an early start this year, as the Mental Health Association in Wayne County again works to ensure that more than 300 residents are not forgotten.
"Operation Santa Claus" is the MHA's annual effort on behalf of those who might not have family and/or friends.
Citizens living in facilities around the county battling mental illness or disabilities, elderly in local nursing homes and care facilities could all use a boost at the holiday time, organizers say.
The Mental Health Association hopes to raise funds to provide some of the basic necessities, such as clothing and personal hygiene products.
Operation Santa Claus collects a "wish list" from multiple care facilities such as group homes, nursing homes, Cherry Hospital, O'Berry Neuro-Medical Treatment Center and Wayne Memorial Hospital for residents lacking family or friends. Items on the list could also include the occasional toy, book or music.
To make the effort a success, donations help purchase items.
This year's goal is $10,000.
Volunteers are also needed to shop, wrap and deliver gifts to the facilities. Individuals, as well as church and civic groups like Girl and Boy Scout troops are encouraged to support the effort.
The public is invited to make donations in honor or memory of a loved one or someone who has made an impact upon the community.
A donation can also be made in a loved one's name as a special gift. Operation Santa Claus will send a Christmas card to the person being honored.
Operation Santa Claus has been sponsored by Mental Health Association in Wayne County and other chapters around the state since 1960.
Tax deductible monetary donations can be mailed to Operation Santa Claus, P.O. Box 1476, Goldsboro, N.C. 27533.
To donate items, shop, wrap and/or deliver gifts, contact the MHA office at 919-734-3530 or e-mail [email protected].