About Us

The idea for Seniors’ Secret Santas began in December of 2021 when we were driving seniors from a local care facility to our weekly Thursday church service at Christ Lutheran (Lakewood, WA). Ed, one of the riders, mentioned that there were residents in his care center who never got visitors. Then he added, “They don’t even get a gift for Christmas! It’s just sad.”

His words stuck with me, and though it was too late to do anything for that Christmas, in the fall of 2022 I contacted a few care facilities. A few weren’t interested, but a few were willing to do the work to find out which residents fit the criteria, and just as importantly, what they would like forChristmas.

After getting the names and requests from 42 seniors, I took the information (but omitting last names) to my Bible study and our quilt group at church. Between all the ladies and family members, all Christmas gift wishes were covered. A few of us delivered the presents to the facilities, and they were distributed at their holiday parties. We, the givers, remain anonymous, because it’s not about us. It’s about helping a senior not feel forgotten at Christmas.

Since then, I’ve added another care facility and the list has grown, and with it the realization that there are probably many seniors in our community spending the holidays without a single gift or card.

In 2025, with the help of my family, I’ve decided to start a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The need has grown beyond the capacity of church volunteers, so now I can raise money to purchase the gifts that others don’t cover – or would rather I take the time to shop for.

Check out our Tablet Initiative this year with a goal of 16 tablets. Please consider helping to pay for one of those tablets or a tablet cover.

Thank you for your support and God bless you.