Of note, residents hosted the Bruce County long-term care home’s annual Christmas open-house fundraiser.

The Dec. 4 event saw more than 180 pounds of non-perishable food collected and approximately $150 raised for the Salvation Army’s food bank.

Andrea Prentice, the Jarlette Health Services-owned home’s resident and family services co-ordinator, commends the home’s residents for their efforts organizing the event.

“Residents are still very active in fundraising and we do lots of different things to raise money for lots of different organizations,” says Prentice.

In appreciation for their dedication and hard work throughout the year, staff members and the home’s physicians were invited to bring their children and grandchildren to the home for a recent Christmas party.

The festivities included a Santa, gift exchange, entertainment and a luncheon.

“The residents look forward every year to watching the children’s faces light up,” says Prentice.

“You can feel the warmth when you walk through the doors.”

The residents also hosted a party with their families Dec. 17. Staff members and community groups made sure residents who do not have families were provided with gifts.

Throughout the past month, social and church groups have been visiting residents providing entertainment, support and programs, “ensuring that every resident enjoys the seasonal spirit,” Prentice says.

Prentice notes that staff members have been busy going the extra mile to make the home as Christmassy as possible.

“The staff carol from room to room, spreading the joy and the five themed trees are waiting to be filled with gifts under their bows,” she says.

“The trees are decorated, the stocking are hung (and) the residents are ready.”

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