The South Shore YMCA is a non-profit charitable organization that exists to strengthen the community, improving the lives of those we serve in spirit, mind and body. We are pleased to share this week's Mission Moment, a story of impact from the entire South Shore YMCA team.

This Valentine's Day, the South Shore YMCA sent tidings of love and comfort to neighbors and local seniors in a variety of ways.

Children at the South Shore YMCA Early Learning Centers, after-school programs, and playrooms in Hanover and Quincy created handmade Valentine’s Day Cards that were delivered to residents at senior care facilities throughout our community, including Benchmark Senior Living in Hanover, the Hanover Council on Aging, the Anne M. Scully Senior Center, Norwell Council on Aging, Weymouth Elder Services, Willcutt Commons, Milton Council on Aging, Randolph Intergenerational Community Center, Scituate Senior Center, Holbrook Council on Aging, Braintree Elder Affairs, the Kennedy Center and Brookdale Quincy Bay in Quincy.

South Shore YMCA Vice President of Youth Development, Kristine Swan, feels it is important for seniors to know that children are thinking of them during the holidays, and says that children get a sense of pride from sharing their artwork.

“The bond between generations is so important,” said Kristine. “Knowing that a child took the time to make a heartfelt Valentine can bring such joy to a senior who may be feeling lonely or isolated, especially on a holiday. This is such a special way to foster a spirit of connection and caring within our community.”

For residents receiving the cards, the gesture was both touching and uplifting. "Wow, what a beautiful surprise," said Cindy, a resident at Benchmark Senior Living in Hanover. "This is the best Valentine’s Day ever."

Another heartwarming tradition took place this Valentine’s Day as our longtime Y supporters, Kathie and Jack McDonough, generously donated 100 chicken potpies made by The Main Course Market in Canton to distribute to our community through our South Shore YMCA Food Pantry, as they have for years. 

“We’re so thrilled for this chance to show some love to our neighbors today, providing them with these beautiful chicken potpies for a family meal together,” said Kathy Quigley, Development Director for the South Shore YMCA. “Thank you to the McDonoughs for making this Valentines Day so special for these families. The McDonoughs consistently donate caring gifts throughout the year to ensure that families feel part of the Y community. So many families feel isolated during holidays, so the Y steps in to fill the gap thanks to generous donors."

For those receiving the meals, the impact was deeply felt. “I am so grateful for the South Shore YMCA, the work that you all do,” shared a food pantry guest. “No matter how long the line out the door is on pantry days, how cold it is outside, or how busy it is inside, I always feel so warm and welcome coming in here. You all do fabulous work, and I cannot thank you all enough.”

Happy Valentines Day from all of us at the South Shore YMCA! 

SOUTH SHORE YMCA | The Better You Belongs Here. | ssymca.org