“You’re not forgotten”: Christmas cards bringing joy to lonely seniors

STUDENTS from St John’s Catholic School in Mullumbimby have lent their creativity and compassion to a community project writing Christmas cards for elderly residents, many of whom spend the festive season alone.

The initiative is part of aged-care provider Feros Care’s More the Merrier campaign, which aims to brighten Christmas for isolated Australians through heartfelt, hand-written messages.

Feros Care’s general manager of customer experience and volunteers Greg Winfield said one in four seniors in the Northern Rivers live alone and are nearly three times more likely to experience loneliness — a feeling that hits home harder at Christmas.

“We’ve been supporting older Australians for 35 years and see first-hand the absolute delight these hand-written cards from young children bring to our seniors at Christmas,” he said.

 

“Every card and every kind word says you’re not forgotten. It’s a small gesture that can make a big emotional difference.”

Winfield said the campaign also gives young people an opportunity to learn empathy and the value of giving.

“When the children’s cards arrive, the reaction from seniors is incredible,” he said. “Their faces light up, and they often keep those cards displayed on their fridge or coffee table for months.”

Locals can support More the Merrier by writing and donating Christmas cards or volunteering to help with deliveries.

To find out how to get involved, visit feroscare.com.au/morethemerrier