Bern, Biel, and Thun residents are participating in a heartwarming initiative to bring joy to elderly individuals this holiday season. The "Päckliaktion für üsi Seniorinne und Seniore" campaign, now in its third year, allows shoppers to fulfill Christmas wishes from seniors living in Senevita care homes or receiving Senevita Spitex services.
Christmas trees adorned with wish cards stand in Loeb department stores. Customers can select a card, purchase the requested item, and leave it at the checkout. These gifts are then wrapped and delivered to the seniors, providing a significant bright spot during the festive period.
Key Takeaways
- The "Päckliaktion" campaign is in its third year.
- Over 1,200 wishes were initially placed across three Loeb branches.
- Seniors' wishes are often modest, including chocolates, toiletries, and plants.
- Senevita supports 1,500 elderly individuals in the Canton of Bern.
- Any unfulfilled wishes will be covered by Senevita.
A Simple Gesture, A Big Impact
The wishes expressed by the seniors are often humble. They range from basic necessities to small comforts. Common requests include shower gel, aftershave, animal calendars, and potted plants. This year, one item stands out as particularly popular: chocolate.
Martina Summermatter, Senevita's media spokesperson, confirmed the popularity of chocolate. She shared a story from one care home resident who expressed her excitement. The resident noted it was her first time wishing for chocolate and looked forward to the Christmas meal and gift exchange.
Campaign Snapshot
- Bern: Over 800 wishes initially
- Thun: Over 200 wishes initially
- Biel: Approximately 200 wishes initially (first year participating)
Growing Participation and Community Spirit
The initiative has seen strong community engagement. Antonietta Heinemann from the Loeb Group media office reported that only a few wishes remained on the trees. This indicates a high level of participation from shoppers eager to contribute.
In Bern, more than 800 wishes were initially displayed. Thun had over 200, and Biel, participating for the first time this year, also started with around 200 wishes. The total number of wishes placed across the three stores exceeds 1,200.
"The gifts are a ray of hope at the end of the year for these elderly people." – Martina Summermatter, Senevita Media Spokesperson
Modest Desires Bring Lasting Joy
The lasting impact of these gifts is evident. One senior recounted receiving a nightgown last year. She expressed her continued happiness with the garment, highlighting how a simple present can bring joy for an extended period.
This demonstrates the profound effect that thoughtful gifts can have, extending beyond the immediate act of giving. It underscores the value of small, personal items for those who might have limited access to such comforts.
About Senevita
Senevita provides care and support for approximately 1,500 elderly individuals across the Canton of Bern. Their services include residential care homes and Spitex home care, ensuring comprehensive support for seniors in various living situations.
Ensuring Every Wish is Granted
The campaign runs until December 14th. Despite the enthusiastic participation from the public, Senevita has a plan for any wishes that remain unfulfilled. Martina Summermatter assured that Senevita will cover the cost of any remaining items.
This commitment ensures that every senior who submitted a wish will receive a gift. It reinforces the compassionate spirit of the campaign and Senevita's dedication to the well-being of its residents and clients.
A Tradition of Giving
This year marks the third iteration of the "Päckliaktion." In previous years, between 800 and 900 elderly individuals participated annually. The consistent success and growing reach of the campaign highlight its importance to the community and the seniors it serves.
The expansion to include the Biel branch for the first time this year signifies the growing recognition and impact of the initiative. It allows more residents to contribute and more seniors to experience the joy of receiving a personalized gift during the holidays.
Connecting Generations Through Generosity
The campaign fosters a unique connection between different generations within the community. Shoppers, often families or individuals, take a moment from their busy schedules to consider the needs and wishes of an elderly stranger.
This act of giving goes beyond a simple transaction. It embodies the spirit of community and compassion, reminding everyone of the importance of looking out for one another, especially during the festive season.
The success of the "Päckliaktion" serves as a testament to the generosity of Bernese residents. It shows how small, coordinated efforts can create significant positive experiences for vulnerable members of society, making the holiday season brighter for many.