Spreading good cheer

FLORENCE - Residents of Mitchell-Hollingsworth nursing home, all 222 of them, went on a shopping spree Wednesday.

It was an excursion where no money was needed and the only requirement was Christmas cheer.

For the past 18 years, local school groups have volunteered their time to help the residents shop at an in-house Christmas store. For eight years, the Wilson High School Key Club has had the honor.

"We have a great time helping the residents shop and wrap their gifts," said 11th-grader Amy Wimberly. "They're so appreciative and it's such a small sacrifice of our time. I just love coming here."

Key Club sponsor Tammy Yielding brought about 30 students to the facility for the morning's activities.

"It's something these students look forward to every year and it's a great experience for them," she said.

The residents say they receive the biggest blessing from the experience.

"I got nice gifts for my daughter and son-in-law and it really helps me just to come here and shop because I sure couldn't go out and shop," said Mitchell-Hollingsworth resident Helen Marie Watts.

The "Santa Shop" depends on donations from families of residents, churches, civic groups and the general public. This year, about 14 tables were filled with items ranging from elaborate picture frames to clothing and Christmas decorations.

Contributions started in early fall, said Jerolyn Herron, the director of resident services at Mitchell-Hollingworth.

"The residents are waiting outside the doors 30 minutes before time for the shop to open," Herron said. "Each resident gets to choose three gifts and they get to surprise special visitors during the holidays with the gifts."

Herron said residents shop for family and friends. "The recipients of the gifts are always surprised."

Herron said there's no way to fully express to the students the residents' appreciation.

"This is just absolutely a highlight of their year," Herron said. "They mainly love all the attention they get from these young people."

Lisa Singleton-Rickman can be reached at 740-5735 or lisa.singleton-rickman@timesdaily.com.