The community is invited to participate in
Hands to Hearts
We all love to receive cards in the mail. And in this time of COVID, it feels even more important to reach out to residents of long-term care homes, the staff, and hospice patients, to brighten their day with a positive word, and messages of hope.
Earlier this year, we received hundreds of donated greeting cards from community members as part of our Hands to Hearts greeting card initiative to help reduce social isolation and loneliness. So far, we have delivered 1,000 cards to residents and 800 cards to staff!
In fact, the campaign was so successful, we’ve decided to run it again this summer! Help us reduce social isolation and loneliness and contribute to a feeling of wellbeing by participating in Hands to Hearts. And everyone in the community is invited to participate!
How do I participate?
If you have already participated in this initiative previously, all you need to do is follow the same guidelines as before and donate your cards when completed!
To register: If you are new to this initiative and are interested in participating, please contact Heather to register and learn more: [email protected].
Once you are registered, all you have to do is fill out your card with a heartwarming message and drop it off at The Gies Family Centre, Hospice Waterloo Region: 100 Solstice Way in Waterloo.
When and where can I drop off the cards?
Every Tuesday, starting June 8th, we will place a labelled bin outside the main entrance of The Gies Family Centre. Please leave your cards in this bin. There is parking near the main entrance to the building.
- Drop off day: Tuesdays, starting June 8
- Time: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Location: The Gies Family Centre: 100 Solstice Way in Waterloo
When dropping off the cards:
- Please leave the envelope unsealed
- Place the cards in a clear plastic bag to ensure that the cards don’t get wet or dirty
- And please label the bag with your name
Guidelines:
- Cards should include a positive, kind, sincere and joyful message
- They should use inclusive and clear language
- Messages should resonate with anyone
- Please avoid religious messaging, as we want to keep the messaging as neutral as possible
- Recommended greetings begin with: “Hi There, Hello!, Greetings!, Dear Friend or Hello Friend.”
- Cards should be in large text, and avoid cursive writing
- Cards should be signed using FIRST NAMES ONLY
- They should be creative, so include colour!
- Please avoid glitter, sequins, feathers
- Please use writing materials that will not smear
FAQs
When and where do I drop off my finished cards and artwork?
Every Tuesday, starting June 8th, we will place a labelled bin outside the main entrance of The Gies Family Centre. Please leave your cards in this bin. There is parking near the main entrance to the building.
- Drop off day: Tuesdays, starting June 8
- Time: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Location: The Gies Family Centre: 100 Solstice Way in Waterloo
When dropping off the cards:
- Please leave the envelope unsealed
- Place the cards in a clear plastic bag to ensure that the cards don’t get wet or dirty
- And please label the bag with your name
What if those drop-off dates and times don't work for me?
If drop off dates and time do not work for you, please contact us Heather at [email protected]
I would like to participate, but need some blank cards and supplies. Who do I contact to make arrangements?
If you would like some materials delivered to you, please contact Alana at [email protected] and we will arrange a date and time for the drop off.
Is this a one-time project or can I keep making and submitting cards?
- As we receive more cards requests from LTC homes, we will need more cards. We will be collecting cards for the reminder of the summer months.
- We will provide updates as needed.
Can you suggest sample wording?
Examples for residents of LTC:
“Sending you good health and comfort during this trying time. We will get through this together, as a community. Just remember you are not alone in this. Stay Safe!”
“Thinking of you…Caring about you…Wishing you strength and peace.”
“Just wanted to say hello and tell you that I am thinking of you and sending you a big hug. May your day be filled with all kinds of bright sunny things. Keep smiling!”
Examples for LTC staff:
“Thank you so much for your dedication to protecting the health of our community during this pandemic. Due to your courage, strength, and selflessness you have inspired and instilled hope within our community. You are appreciated. Thank you so much for everything you do!”
“You have my support and heartfelt appreciation for all you do. We are deeply grateful for all the sacrifices that you and your family are making. Thank you for your strength, courage and dedication. We see you and are thinking of you!”
Examples for HWR clients:
I hope this card brightens your day. I know that even without a pandemic, you’ve have had a rough year. I want you to know that I care about you and that you are not alone. I am sending you positive energy and love in this card. Every time you open it, I hope you feel the warmth. Enjoy every moment that you can. Wishing you all the best.
“Sending you positive thoughts and well wishes during this challenging time. Stay well and remember to reach out to supports if you need it! We are all in this together! Have an amazing day.”
“Thinking of you…Caring about you…Wishing you strength and peace.”
Have questions?
If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Alana at [email protected] or Yesenia at [email protected].