Giving a helping hand to Adult Care Facilities

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Monday, December 13th, 2021 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories

LA GRANDE – A program that has been ongoing for 15-years called “Adopt a Grandparent” was developed by Kathy Rudd in La Grande, who wanted to give back to the residents of nursing homes, adult foster care, and private individuals. Rudd spoke with Elkhorn Media Group and said “I got this idea from a friend and after doing some investigating, and discovered the seniors in private facilities, as well as regular Adult Care Facilities, are either forgotten or ignored. Each senior receives a Christmas stocking filled with moisturizing lotions for their hands and feet, socks, stuffed animal, a blanket, calendar, and large print Word Search Books”.

“Each stocking is sponsored by businesses or individuals who purchase a stocking for a minimal cost per stocking”, Rudd said. The sponsor’s name is then put on a tag that is included and those receiving the stockings will know who purchased that stocking. I along with Santa Clause and Mrs. Santa deliver them.

The seniors only know Rudd as the stocking lady. The purchased items for the stockings are from donations. Last year there were 117 stockings delivered and Rudd said, she hopes of surpassing that this year.

“I love seeing the smiles and tears of joy, knowing they are special”, Rudd said.