Each year for the past three years, NOVA has teamed up with Home Instead Senior Care to bring warmth and joy to financially challenged and lonely seniors in the Prince William County area. Students, faculty and staff participate by stopping by the Christmas tree at the Howsman Building or the wreath at Innovation Park at the Manassas campus, picking up an ornament with a preferred gift listed by a senior, purchase the gift, and then returning it to the Provost’s office of the campus.

This year so far 75 gifts have been collected, which is more than the past two years according to Mariah Johnson, Campus Community Relations Specialist.

Johnson stated that people are being more generous this year, which is a timely thing to do in these financially tougher days. Johnson also said the local non-profits are very appreciative because, “for some seniors, it is the one gift they receive a year.” This year, the gift requests included such items as postage stamps, blankets and gifts cards. These are everyday items that we tend to take for granted but that, with a little extra effort, we can bring to seniors out there in need.

“When you see that a senior wants a blanket, it really makes you want to help them out,” said Johnson.

The gift drive on campus is going on now until Dec. 3. If you miss this drive but still want to help, Home Instead is holding a gift-wrapping party on Dec. 14 at the Annandale Firehouse in the Ossian Hall on Columbia Pike, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. According to Amy Reynolds, recruiter for Home Instead, there will be refreshments as well as a band playing to entertain you while you wrap.

If giving presents, not wrapping them, is more your style, then you can still pick up ornaments and donate through Dec. 10 at any of the following locations: Caribou Coffee in Fairlakes, Lorton and King’s Park Shopping Center, as well as at Smith and Clarkson Deli, the Curves at Ravensworth and Barcroft and the Kmart in Annandale. You can also go to the Home Instead Senior Care office next to Silverado at 7058 Columbia Pike in Annandale.

By: Ashley Strobridge

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