A special Valentine’s Day surprise
What could be better on a snowy Valentine’s Day than a visit from some little people bearing flowers, cupcakes, cookies, gifts and an award? The Ken Jones Respite Program (KJC) for the intellectually and physically challenged were recipients of a heartwarming gesture made possible today by a group of youngsters from Jenny’s Daycare.
The wee ones arrived with Jenny for a surprise visit this week after being invited last week by the Ken Jones Respite group to join them for their Zoo Therapy activity.
“The kids in my daycare program really enjoyed the zoo therapy activity and we were so happy to be invited by the KJC clients and animators,” said Royea. “It was the kids who asked to make Valentine’s cards and so on to bring to the group to thank them,” she stated.
After observing that one of the Ken Jones Respite Clients was having difficulty communicating while the group joined them for the Zoo Therapy the week before, one four year old had a special request in preparing the gifts for the Valentine’s Day visit.
“I want to bring her a Teddy Bear,” she said. “You must feel sad when people have a hard time understanding you and I know she likes Teddy Bears so that will make her feel happy,” she added.
The children also presented Ally Leonard, a Respite participant volunteer with an award thanking her for helping them when they go to the local library.
Royea has been running a day care in Potton for many years now and she is a natural with children. Her efforts as the best craft maker and outing organizer are exceeded only by her love for Kenny Rogers; a love she has instilled in all of the children as well. Kenny Roger’s leprechauns on St.patrick’s Day, Kenny Rogers Santa’s at Christmas and if you play your cards right, a Kenny Roger’s Valentine encouraging you to “know when to hold em.”
Jenny is a gentle spirit with a passion for getting her little ones active in the community. For many years, Jenny organized fundraising initiatives to support the Montreal Children’s Hospital and she always has one of the biggest floats, filled with kids, in the Annual Potton Parade. In summer, Jenny’s Club is at maximum capacity. Jenny is loved by the kids and supported by the parents who trust her and her team in the caring of their most precious gift, their children.
For the Ken Jones Respite clients and staff, the Daycare group is like a breath of fresh air showing unconditional love and kindness. When these kids smile, the day is instantly filled with sunshine. No better day to celebrate the love shared by community groups than Valentine’s Day and thanks to Jenny’s Day Care, 2019 was an extra memorable one.