Teen assisting seniors during pandemic
TREDYFFRIN » A Conestoga High School student has bridged the generational gap between seniors and kids during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Fifteen-year-old Hita Gupta sends care packages to senior citizens. The sophomore is founder of “Brighten a Day,” which distributes packages, including a puzzle book (usually large print), a coloring book and coloring pencils, along with an uplifting handwritten note.
She sent cards to four local nursing homes: Sunrise of Paoli; Wayne Center; The Devon Senior Living; and Green Meadows Nursing Center.
The non-profit is “dedicated to giving back to the most vulnerable groups in society” and has sent more than 2,000 cards to 35 hospitals and nursing homes in seven states, according to Hita.
“Seniors are more susceptible to the virus and also show more severe symptoms,” Hita said. “Nursing homes throughout the United State (including the one where I volunteer) are being closed off to visitors.”
Hita developed the 501(c)3 charitable organization after visitors were barred from nursing homes. She is a volunteer at Daylesford Crossing in Paoli.
“Many residents are experiencing boredom, loneliness, isolation and anxiety as they are unable to meet family or friends,” she said.
Hita noted that when seniors are not mentally healthy, it can have a negative effect on their physical health as well.
“This virus is only making this problem bigger,” she said. “It’s still a pretty big issue.”
At Daylesford Crossing, Hita interacts with seniors while calling BINGO, playing trivia and teaching computer usage. She plays brain games and exercises with those with dementia.
The avid fiction reader also visits the Tredyffrin and Paoli libraries where elementary school students – and sometimes their parents – write notes to seniors for the holidays. She also shipped school supplies to an orphanage in India.
Hita coined the organization’s name, Brighten a Day, from the feeling the sun evokes.
“I want to share smiles, cheer people up and keep them from feeling lonely,” she said.
“I want to cheer up the seniors and let them know that they are not alone in this difficult time,” she said. “The community cares about them.”
Hita drops the care packages at the nursing home doors. She can’t see the residents accept their gifts.
“It’s good to know that I’m able to bring joy to so many seniors,” she said.
For more information or to donate, go to www. brightenaday.weebly.com.