We've discussed the effect that almost a year's worth of pandemic lockdowns has had on all of us in one way or another, from restaurants and other businesses to students and their parents. Our nation's senior citizens, in particular those who are in long-term care facilities, have had an exceedingly difficult time throughout this experience, too.

While the rest of us have had at least some opportunities to leave our homes and visit with other human beings in person (even if it's only at the grocery store), the estimated one million Americans living in long-term care facilities have not. For a group of people used to having visitors and feeling a connection with their fellow residents and their community, this has been a devastating time of isolation and loneliness in many, many cases.

With nothing to indicate that their current quarantines are coming to an end anytime soon, it's nice to see groups and organizations doing their best to reach out to locked-down seniors. Since it can't be done with personal visits, the next best way is to reach out with cards and letters.

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For those worried about contracting COVID-19 from the mail, the U.S. Postal Service, the CDC, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Surgeon General all say that there's no evidence to support that concern.

The reason I bring all this up is that State Senator Dave Syverson, Winnebago County Board Chairman Joe Chiarelli, Belvidere Mayor Mike Chamberlain, and State Representative Jeff Keicher have gotten together for what they're calling Valentines For Seniors.

23 WIFR News:

Syverson and his partners are encouraging churches, schools, and community members in Northern Illinois to send Valentine’s Day cards that can be dropped off or mailed to various locations throughout the 35th District. Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to the various long-term care facilities in the district.

Senator Syverson's Facebook page has further details on how you can help:

 

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