Spreading Joy: Smiles for Seniors Initiative Brings Holiday Cheer to Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre
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Group picture of volunteers from the initiative “Smiles for Seniors”
December 18, 2023 - Defence Stories
In the spirit of giving and spreading joy during the holiday season, the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group (CAF TG), Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) and elementary and secondary school students collaborated once more this year to ensure that residents at the Perley and Rideau Veterans' Health Centre in Ottawa experienced holiday joy.
This initiative took place on December 12th and aimed at bringing smiles to the faces of the residents at the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre by providing them with carefully selected gifts.
Volunteers from CAF TG and CFMWS took the lead in assembling 51 gifts for residents and for 12 nurses’ stations. A total of $1,760 was contributed by employees within the CAF TG and CFMWS to procure gifts for residents, supplemented by additional individually wrapped gifts from employees.
Additionally, some local businesses and organizations stepped forward to contribute to the cause. Bona offered free parking for volunteers on the preparation day, Giant Tiger provided a 15% discount on remaining items and gifts, Soldier On contributed 12 duffle bags for the nurses’ stations, and CANEX provided 100 reusable bags. Students from L’École secondaire Louis-Riel and Collège catholique Samuel-Genest joined the team of volunteers and a grade 6 class at l’École élémentaire catholique Montfort, led by a young student named Sophia, also provided donations and handmade illustrated Holiday cards. An Ottawa citizen also created handmade cards for the seniors.
The delivery of these heartfelt gifts was a momentous occasion, with military personnel adorned in their uniforms, adding a touch of honor and respect. The visit to the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre was not merely about the gift of giving; it was an opportunity to engage with the seniors, share stories, and create lasting memories.
A special highlight of the day was the visit by the Deputy Commander of CAF TG Capt(N) Gregory Adamthwaite to Lucille Lane, a remarkable Second World War veteran at 101 years old. Lucille Lane, who served in the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service, received a goodie bag as a token of appreciation for her service.
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Lucille Lane and the Deputy Commander of CAF TG Capt(N) Gregory Adamthwaite
Credit: Ashley Boisvert (CAF TG Communications Officer)
The collaboration of Christmas elves from across the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group, Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services exemplified the true spirit of the holiday season. Through their collective efforts, they ensured that the seniors at the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre experienced the joy and warmth that the season brings.
As we celebrate the festive season, let us be inspired by the Smiles for Seniors initiative and continue to spread kindness and compassion within our communities, especially to those who have dedicated their lives in service to our country.
The “Smiles for Seniors” holiday initiative has been in place since 2000, with many staff members participating since it was first launched.
Happy holidays everyone!