“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift of God, which is why we call it the present.”

This recognizable quote, often attributed to American cartoonist Bil Keane, resonated particularly well with the seniors at Holy Korean Martyrs Senior Housing recently.

In the days of COVID-19, one thing has been made abundantly clear: we are to cherish each day and recognize the present within each day. Perhaps that is what made August 21, National Senior Day, a bit more special at Holy Korean Martyrs Senior Housing this year.

Staff at Holy Korean Martyrs Senior Housing celebrate National Senior Day with gifts for the residents.

“We love and appreciate our seniors,” said Property Manager Danielle King. “Many of them lived active lives, giving to their families and communities over the years, so it is a pleasure to give them tokens of appreciation when we can.”

Ms. Retha Thompson was elated by the surprise delivery.

“It was a pleasant surprise to have them come over and give us gifts,” said the 76-year-old. “It really shows just how much they care about us as seniors. Of course I love the candy, but I also love crossword puzzles and other mind-provoking games. With this pandemic going on it’s nice to have something else to do other than watching television and looking out the window. It was simply a phenomenal gesture.”

Ms. Retha Thompson holds her gift from the staff at Holy Korean Martyrs.

More than 80 residents of Holy Korean Martyrs Senior Housing received a bright yellow bag, filled with goodies to celebrate National Senior Day. The bags included LED flashlights, crossword puzzles, Sudoku puzzles, paint and canvases, crayons, notepads, books, wall art, wall and desk calendars, pill organizers, brain teaser wooden puzzles and sugar-free candy.

“It was a great delight for the staff to see and communicate with each resident, while practicing social distancing,” King explained. “It was a great way for our team to show the seniors we care and they have our support even through a pandemic.”

Gifts and gift bags were all purchased by the team at Holy Korean Martyrs Senior Housing. If you would like to make such donations, please coordinate with the staff before arriving, and wear appropriate PPE.