Program kicks off

The holidays: a time for family, friends and giving.

But for some residents of nursing homes or assisted-living centers, the holidays can be lonely. The Silver Bells program raises funds to give gifts to those needy residents. It’s a 17-county initiative of the Permian Basin Regional Planning Commission’s Area Agency on Aging, which is funded through the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Service.

“We try to honor these Texas residents, and they are so grateful to get anything,” lead volunteer Bobby V. Slaughter said.

He said the goal is to give a bit of holiday joy to those who need it, but this year the organization is focusing more on monetary donations to help offset more specific wants by facilities. Directors provide the agency with a list of residents who need assistance from Silver Bells. Volunteers help the agency purchase, sort and deliver the gifts to residents throughout the Basin.

Slaughter said the agency wants to also purchase several larger things for entire facilities this year, such as a Wii game console or popcorn machine.

Ombudsman Cindy Oglesby said directs the program for the agency. She said those who want to donate gifts directly can do so, but they must be new unopened items.

The Silver Bells program started eight years ago, and Slaughter said only $1000 or so was raised the first year. Last year, he said he was surprised at the final turnout given the economy. He said roughly $25,000 of gifts were donated, though exact figures are challenging because of some gifts being purchased and others donated.

Oglesby said the program means a lot, and another special gift the AAA is giving is a room makeover for two big Dallas Cowboy fans at Monahans and McCamey facilities. The residents will get rooms all decked out in Cowboy items, such as clocks.

Slaughter said he currently expects the drive to conclude in early December in time to have the gifts ready prior to holiday parties.

“This just brightens their day,” he said.