The first COVID-19 news was in our state and brought a national focus. Immediately this shut down all senior facilities. The elderly had to remain in their rooms without family visits or even being able to socialize within their facilities. Although necessary, it was horrific. During that time, library volunteers were also stuck at home with lots of extra time. Our opportunity was to build a bridge with “Letters to Seniors”.

People’s safety is imperative, yet we need each other. Library volunteers were given tips and encouraged to be creative in making cheery cards that were simply signed, “your library friend.” WE then distributed the cards to senior care facilities. The seniors loved receiving mail, while the volunteers were able to continue giving to their community remotely. This project bonded families, created memories and engaged people. The successes are numerous, but the greatest was that seniors felt remembered.

During the pandemic, seniors have been vulnerable, isolated and depressed. Volunteers, people with heart, were bored. We started the “Letters to Seniors Program” to bridge the gap of human interaction. Over 3,000 cards have been made by over 200 volunteers for more than a dozen facilities. This program connected the lonely with giving hearts and became a bridge with far-reaching impact.