The Grinch said it best.

Christmas doesn’t come from a store. It means, perhaps, a little bit more.

And never does Christmas mean more than when it’s shared with someone out of nothing more than love for one another, said Jeanette Dawkins, Troy Health & Rehabilitation Center activities director.

Each year, TH&R’s Adopt-a-Resident program offers a unique giving opportunity to the community. And, the community responds with loving hearts and open arms, Dawkins said.

“We have residents who don’t have family nearby and some don’t have families who are able, for many reasons, to make Christmas special,” Dawkins said. “At Troy Health & Rehab, we want Christmas to be special for all of our residents. Many people are looking for ways to reach out beyond family and friends at Christmastime. Our Adopt-a-Resident program is a wonderful and rewarding way to do that. This program is a blessing for our residents.”

Dawkins said those who would like to adopt a resident are given the room number and a wish list of a resident and they can pick and choose from that wish list.

“The resident’s name is not made available for understandable reasons,” Dawkins said.

The gifts for the residents should be delivered to TH&R by Dec. 17 and should wrapped and tagged with the resident’s room number.

“Santa Claus delivers the gifts to the residents on the morning of our annual Christmas party,” Dawkins said. “That way, each resident gets one-on-one time with Santa and that makes them feel very special. Santa Claus is really big with some of our residents. Santa and presents bring back memories for them.

“Those who participate in the Adopt-a-Resident program are invited our Christmas party at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 21 and get to share a special time with all of our residents.”

Those who would like to Adopt-a-Resident at Troy Health & Rehab for Christmas are encouraged to call Dawkins at 334-566-0880.