Making the appeal
Seniors’ Angel Tree aims to make Christmas a happier time for many local seniors
Sue Gallant has a knack for getting to the heart of Summerside residents.
The long-time Kin Canada volunteer is not only co-organizer of the Annual Christmas appeal, last year she started Seniors’ Angel Tree to make sure everyone has a happy Christmas.
Gallant keeps a board filled with wish lists shaped like gift tags behind the counter at Sun & Suds Laundromat. The tags are numbered and only Gallant knows who gets what, to maintain the dignity of those receiving the gifts.
Kolby Perry stopped in to the laundromat to pick up two tags on her way home from the gym.
She volunteers at Somerset Manor with her therapy dog, so when she saw the Senior’s Angel Tree on social media, she could easily see how the gifts
would brighten someone’s season.
“Doing something for someone else is what the season’s all about,” said Perry.
The items are simple — toiletries, a cardigan, calendars, puzzles — but will make a difference to those who have asked for them.
Last year, Gallant gave gifts to over 300 seniors in residences around Summerside.
“There’s a lot of need out there,” said Perry.
People who would like to help a senior in Summerside can stop into the laundromat on Granville Street to pick a tag.
If all the tags are picked up, Gallant will “be out getting more” wish lists, she said.
All gifts need to be dropped off with Gallant or at Sun & Suds by Dec. 15.