Annual Stockings for Seniors Drive Underway at the Atrium at Cardinal Drive

AGAWAM — The Atrium at Cardinal Drive has launched its 13th annual Stockings for Seniors benefit drive. By donating small stocking stuffers to be included in holiday bags, local citizens and organizations can brighten the lives of needy seniors. Small items can be dropped off at the Atrium, located at 153 Cardinal Dr. in Agawam. Donations will be accepted through Thursday, Dec. 16.

The Atrium has set a goal to deliver 100 stockings to local Councils on Aging and Meals on Wheels programs, who in turn will deliver the stockings to needy seniors in local communities.

Donors can contribute items of any quantity; however, individuals or organizations interested in donating quantities of more than 50 items will be included in an acknowledgement letter inserted into each holiday bag. Contact Allison Baker at (781) 530-7850 to sponsor a quantity item so the Atrium can plan accordingly with other donors.

Recommended large-quantity items include local grocery-store or pharmacy gift cards, eyeglass-repair kits, lens cleaners and wipes, light-up magnifying glasses, flashlights, batteries, nightlights, nail clippers, nail-file boards, pocket tissues, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand lotion, stationery and notecards, greeting-card assortments, stamps, potholders, candy, lottery tickets, sugar-free items for diabetics, and Sudoku, crossword, and word-search puzzle books.

There is no minimum or maximum limit on monetary value or what can be included. “Any and all donations are appreciated,” said Baker, director of Community Relations with the Atrium at Cardinal Drive. “There are several programs in the area to help support children and families in need during the holiday season, but often our seniors are forgotten. Over the past 13 years, we have distributed over 2,000 stockings. Especially during this challenging year, we want to be sure we are still able to spread holiday cheer to seniors who may be isolated in their homes.”