Holiday basket project for seniors is underway

With the community's support, Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging has provided holiday gift baskets to needy seniors for the past 17 years. The annual Holiday Gift Basket Project is an important initiative of Senior Connections' efforts to promote healthy aging and help seniors remain independent in their homes and communities. Last year, the project provided gift baskets to 123 seniors who live in Chesterfield, Henrico, Hanover, Goochland, Charles City, New Kent and Powhatan counties and the city of Richmond. This year, the goal is to reach even more seniors in need or isolated from their families.

Senior Connections is currently seeking contributions of nonperishable food, gift certificates, household supplies and disaster preparedness items such as batteries and flashlights to help seniors enjoy a healthier and safer holiday this year. Donations will be packed into gift baskets for delivery to seniors in mid-December.

Individuals and organizations wishing to donate items may deliver them to Senior Connections, located on the second floor of 24 E. Cary St. in Richmond. The final date for receipt of items is Fri., Dec. 7.

In addition to items for gift baskets, other emergency needs may be met through monetary contributions. Please make checks or money orders payable to Senior Connections, write "Holiday Project" on the memo line, and mail to SC/CAAA, 24 E. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23219.

For additional information about the project, call Diane Foster, program coordinator, at 343-3045.