Announcement

OPA Rec and Parks invites community to ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

(Oct. 30, 2024) The Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department announces its continued participation in the countywide "Be a Santa to a Senior" program, organized by Home Instead and starting on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Recreation and Parks Director Debbie Donahue said the program helps brighten the hearts of seniors in the community by giving thoughtful gifts they might not otherwise receive.

In Ocean Pines, ornaments with the names of local seniors are placed on a Christmas tree in the Community Center lobby. Each ornament includes a list of requested items for each senior.

Crystal Heiser, who coordinates the program, said last year nearly 900 local seniors received gifts through the program, with almost 200 of those coming from the Ocean Pines community.

“This cause is important because these seniors are asking for essentials – not for what they want,” she said. “That said, most of the ‘Santas’ that take a tag will tuck in a special treat or item that wasn’t asked for to make the giving more personal.”

Those interested in participating can simply stop by, pick up an ornament, purchase the requested items, wrap them, and bring them back to the community center by Dec. 2. Home Instead will do the rest.

For more information, email Heiser at [email protected].

Announcement

OPA Rec and Parks invites community to ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’

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