Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority, Alpha Psi chapter, a women’s service organization, looks forward to McComb’s Christmas parade each year. In times past, they have helped in its planning and even rode in decorated cars.
Time went by and ESA thought of folks not able to enjoy the morning’s parade activities — the marching bands, decorated vehicles and Santa Claus. So they thought, why not bring Christmas cheer and a good time to folks living in a care center?
McComb Nursing & Rehab accepted ESA’s plans, offering their activity center. This year, after the parade, the ladies were there for the expected Christmas gift party. Hundreds of trinkets, reading books, caps, socks and other items were there for residents’ use.
There were large-print crossword puzzle books, bottles and jars of lotions and creams, warm crocheted scarves. Often, a person would be handling something and ask what it was. Some asked if they could put a chosen gift back and replace it with something more enticing or needed. The answer was, “You can have both.”
Most residents needed care. They arrived just four or five at a time. Traveling around the two long tables, looking and pondering took time. Helpers encouraged them to choose gifts for loved ones, their caregivers and any other special someone.
The two youngest members’ job was at the wrapping table. They boxed things in Christmas paper. Others went into nice Christmas sacks. One fellow came with a crocheted square piece. Yes, he wanted it, insisted it not be wrapped. He could make a snuggy to go around his neck. Another suggestion was an interesting scarf to cover the bedside table.
These women — all good friends — had been able to collect and/or buy hundreds of items and save them. Their eyes are always open to smaller things at bargain prices. I recalled the fluffy wrap-around scarves, so popular last year. One ESA member said she had found them greatly reduced at Hudson’s. She chose to buy instead of using her hours crocheting a dozen this year.
Residents arrived walking alone, some assisted by employees or family; others were in wheelchairs. I’ve known many for years and we enjoyed visiting. I even helped some choose gifts.
The personal shoppers continued to come a long time. Then members and employees visited with residents unable to attend. They also received gifts.
The ESA women were so enthusiastic about the Christmas shopping party. The pleasure and happiness on the residents’ faces showed they loved the gifts and the attention they received. It was a joy to me to be a guest.
As they packed up the items left over, they were already thinking of next year. The blessing to them, being with folks who love to see new faces, visiting with them and seeing they have presents to use and even some to share, is a great Christmas gift.
