Troy Health and Rehabilitation Center’s Adopt-a-Resident program is under way for the Christmas season.

Jeannette Dawkins, Center activities director, said the Christmas season is a very special time for the residents and for those who share it with them.

“Some of our residents don’t have family nearby and some no family at all,” Dawkins said. “Our Adopt-a-Resident program ensures that every resident will have something under the Christmas tree. They get so excited to have gifts and this program helps makes Christmas merry and special for all of our residents.”

Churches, clubs, organizations and individuals were invited to participate in Troy Health and Rehab’s Adopt-a-Resident program.

“We just ask those who participate to purchase at least a couple of gifts for their adopted resident,” Dawkins said. “Suggested items are pajamas, slippers, gripper socks, sweat pants and shirts and throws. Body sprays and washes and lotions are also items that they can use.”

For health reasons, food items and body powders are not among the recommended gift items. “The residents enjoy unwrapping the gifts so, if possible, it’s nice for the gifts to be wrapped,” Dawkins said.

The “adoption” process is simple. Call Dawkins and she will provide information that will help in selecting gifts for the adopted resident and perhaps make suggestions as to what type of gifts he or she would need and enjoy most.

“The Christmas party for our residents will be at 2 p.m. on Dec. 17 so we ask that all the gifts for our adopted residents be delivered to Troy Health and Rehab by Dec. 14,” Dawkins said. “Santa Claus will visit each resident’s room and deliver their gifts to them before the party. All of those who adopt a resident will be invited to the party so that we can all share this time together.” For more information or to adopt a resident, call Dawkins at 566-0880, ext. 18.