Texarkana, Ark. – The Miller County 4‑H program is once again rallying the community to support seniors during the holiday season. The second annual Santas for Seniors initiative invites residents to donate wrapped gifts for seniors at two local care facilities, with youth volunteers handling delivery on Dec. 18.
How to donate
Donors can stop by the Miller County Extension office at 1007 Jefferson Ave. to select a name tag from a Christmas‑tree display. Each tag lists a senior’s name and a brief description of the items they would appreciate. Gifts should be wrapped in a way that makes removal easy, and must be dropped off at the Extension office by 4 p.m. on Dec. 11.
What seniors are asking for
Requested items are practical and affordable, including body spray, chocolate candies, socks, and other small comforts. The program’s goal is to remind seniors—who can sometimes feel overlooked during the holidays—that they remain valued members of the Miller County community.
Volunteer involvement
Local 4‑H youth will sort the donations, match them to the appropriate name tags, and deliver the wrapped presents to the two participating senior‑care centers on Dec. 18. This hands‑on experience teaches young volunteers the rewards of giving and strengthens inter‑generational ties.
Program growth
Last year, volunteers delivered 32 gifts to residents of a single senior‑care facility. Positive community feedback prompted program coordinator McKenzie Rigdon, Miller County Extension 4‑H agent, to expand the effort to two facilities this year, with a long‑term aim of reaching every senior‑care center in the county. Only 69 name tags are currently available on the tree, so donors are encouraged to act quickly.
Contact information
For more details or to arrange a donation, please contact McKenzie Rigdon at 870‑779‑3609 or via email at [email protected]. Community members who participate help ensure that seniors enjoy a festive holiday season surrounded by the care and appreciation of their neighbors.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
