MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Home Instead Senior Care will kick off its sixth annual “Be a Santa to a Senior” program this Sunday, Nov. 9, inviting the community to help bring holiday cheer to local seniors who might otherwise go without gifts this Christmas.
The kickoff event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Home Instead office, 4525 Poplar Springs Drive, coinciding with the North Hills District Christmas Fun Day and Holiday Open House.
Home Instead is partnering with local businesses including Brand New You Boutique, Twisted T Western & More, The Atrium Mini Mall, and Fudge ETC, all of which will serve as drop-off locations during the open house. Those who donate an item at any participating business will be entered into a drawing for a holiday gift basket.
Kim Yudt, Human Resources Manager at Home Instead, said the program provides gifts for senior adults and others facing challenging circumstances during the holidays.
“Organizations like home health agencies give us names of individuals—mostly senior adults, but sometimes younger people receiving life-altering treatments like dialysis or cancer care,” Yudt said. “They might not have family or the means to celebrate Christmas. We want to bring them joy and let them know they’re not forgotten.”
Participants are encouraged to return gifts in clear tubs or reusable shopping bags, rather than disposable containers. Gifts must be turned in by Dec. 12.
Yudt said the wish lists often include simple necessities such as snacks, toiletries, flashlights, or cleaning supplies. “These are things they need,” she said. “They’re not asking for big-ticket items—just essentials that make life a little easier.”
She added that the program has become a meaningful tradition for both volunteers and recipients. “It brings us joy to know we’re a small part of bringing them joy during the holiday season,” Yudt said. “Senior adults are often overlooked. We want to show them they’re loved by this community and that they matter.”
Residents can participate by adopting a senior from one of the Home Instead trees or by donating items during the North Hills District Holiday Open House on Nov. 9.
Gifts must be returned unwrapped and in reusable containers by Thursday, Dec. 12.
