HANCEVILLE, Ala. – The City of Hanceville is looking to make the holiday season a little brighter for local nursing home and assisted living residents by providing Christmas cards.
City of Hanceville Administrative Assistant Kim Reburn said they start collecting Christmas cards in November and deliver them just before Christmas to spread holiday cheer.
“It all started in 2021 when a resident named Donna Gangi stopped by to chat with (former) Mayor (Kenneth) Nail and me,” she said. “Donna shared how she had approached several community leaders with her ideas for giving back, but no one had stepped up to help her bring them to life. One of her ideas truly stuck with us: Christmas cards for nursing home residents. That very week, I made a post on the City’s Facebook page, and the response was incredible! We collected over 2,000 cards that year. To make the season even brighter, Mr. and Mrs. Claus joined us to personally deliver the cards to each resident, creating a truly magical experience.”
Reburn said the cards come from all over. She said Hanceville Nursing & Rehab houses about 208 people, while Monarch Place has around 54 residents.
“We receive handmade cards from local homeschool groups and elementary classes, as well as churches, businesses and local families drop off cards,” she said. “Even our mayor, City employees, firefighters and police officers get involved. Some cards are extra special because they include the paw print ‘signature’ of our court dog, Cinderella! The staff at both facilities are wonderful, and they go above and beyond to make the day a success. They especially love the visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, who bring smiles to everyone they meet.”
Community members can get involved with this event by helping keep the tradition alive.
“This year, we haven’t received any cards yet, so here’s how you can help,” Reburn said. “You can drop off signed, unsealed cards for us to distribute, or if you’d prefer, you can bring blank cards, and we’ll make sure they’re signed with love by someone special. Your simple act of kindness can make a world of difference for these residents. Let’s come together to show them they’re loved and remembered during the holiday season.”
A few of Reburn’s favorite memories of the event include seeing the residents’ faces light up when they see Santa.
“It’s pure magic,” Reburn said. “Their whole demeanor changes, and you can feel the warmth and joy radiating from them. The holidays can be tough for anyone, especially for those in nursing homes who haven’t had family visit in a long time. Some residents with Alzheimer’s are completely amazed that Santa has come to see them — it’s like Christmas morning when they were kids. Others are flooded with nostalgia, reliving the joy of Christmases past. They dance, sing, laugh and embrace the moment with so much happiness that you never want to leave. It’s a reminder of how powerful even the smallest acts of kindness can be.”
Reburn said she is truly grateful for the amazing people who make the event possible.
“I may not play a significant role, but it’s an honor to be involved in bringing joy to others, especially when it brings me so much joy in return,” she said.
For more information, or to donate Christmas cards, contact the City of Hanceville at 256-352-9830. Hanceville City Hall is located at 112 Main St. SE.
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