CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman area skilled nursing and assisted living residents were treated to the Riding for Residents Jeep Parade on Saturday.
In its third year, the ride started in 2020 to raise the spirits of residents during the height of the COVID pandemic when the residents and much of the nation were on federally mandated lockdown.
Decorated Jeeps with children and pets as passengers drove slowly through the facilities waving and smiling fondly at their senior parade goers.
“I like just to be doing something. This parade and all the people make me feel loved,” shared Monarch Place Assisted Living resident Barbara Lynn as she waved to the riders passing by.
Traveling from Monarch Place, the Jeeps crossed Hwy 31 to Hanceville Nursing and Rehab Center before making their way north on the highway to Woodland Village Rehab and Healthcare and Woodland Haus Assisted Living. From there it was on to Folsom Center Rehab and Healthcare and lastly Cullman Health and Rehab Center.
Over 100 Jeep riders and passengers were treated to a cookout at Cullman Church of Christ after the parade concluded.
Michelle Thomas, a provider at Monarch Place spoke of what the parade meant to her residents.
“It gets them out and about. The parade makes them feel like they’re still a part of the community. They like seeing the children in the parade.”
The parade was sponsored by USA Healthcare and Cullman County Wranglers.
Amy Leonard for The Cullman Tribune 
Amy Leonard for The Cullman Tribune
Copyright 2021 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
