Dear Friends,

We've just wrapped up the largest Veterans campaign we've ever done and it was such an honor to meet all of the Veterans. Hearing the stories of these young men and women is like turning the pages of a history book. How do we know we make an impact? The wife of a Vietnam Veteran who was honored at a luncheon came up to me and thanked me. She wanted me to know this was the first time her husband has ever been acknowledged for his service in Vietnam, and he was so grateful to be thought of. I want to thank all of our sponsors, as they are the reason we were able to reach out to so many veterans this year, and let them know they are not forgotten.

Next up....Simple Wishes for the Holidays. This is a special program for us each year, as we know many of these seniors do not receive any other gift. As Louise wrote to us after last year's gift was delivered, "I have spent many holidays alone. This year was turning into my loneliest holiday. Your gift basket brought joy back into my heart." I thank all of you who support this program by purchasing a gift from our Amazon Wish list, and help us to brighten the holidays of those who ask for so little.

You really do make a difference.

Wendy Miller Backman, MSW

Executive Director

Our goal with "Simple Wishes for the Holidays" is to remind lonely and homebound seniors that they are not forgotten. The "Holiday Blues" is a real thing for many seniors. WNY's caring community of senior care managers and social workers are connecting with us to identify needy seniors, many with little or no family. With support from GEICO employees, we will be also be bringing gifts to all residents of the Niagara Rehab and Nursing facility. They will each have a gift to open on Christmas Day!

Common requests include: small household appliances, blankets, linens, scarves, hats, gloves, toiletries, pajamas and craft supplies.

HONORING A SPECIAL VETERAN

"This is just fantastic. Everyone is here. Thank you so much for what you do."

Wilbur Easton, WWII Veteran

When we found out that one of our WWII Veterans was about to turn 100, we knew we had to do something special for him. When he was asked what he would wish for, Mr. Easton said he just wanted his family all together. What better way to celebrate 100, than to be surrounded by your family and so many of your friends and fellow Veterans! A lunch for the "We've Only Just Begun" senior group was planned, that would celebrate all of the Veterans, as well as Mr. Easton's 100th Birthday! Senior Wishes was able to grant Mr. Easton's wish and honor 12 Veterans for their service at the party!

This year to celebrate Veterans Day, Senior Wishes recognized over 75 local Veterans. Nine Veterans served in WWII, the oldest of whom was 101 years young! Each box contained patriotic items such as a throw blanket, socks, books, games, and branch specific hat and mug.

These heroes were thrilled to be honored and to have the chance to share stories of their experiences...and what experiences they were. So many of them were just young kids when they were drafted (or enlisted), and yet served with such courage and bravery. It's a highlight of the year to meet these Veterans, and sit with them as they recall their service days.

To see all the Veterans who received HERO Boxes, please visit our Facebook page!

Your donation will enrich the life of a local senior through one of our programs - individual wish granting for a senior; group wishes at a care facility or senior apartment complex; "Remembering a senior on Valentine's Day", National Senior Citizen Day ice cream socials, our HERO Boxes for Veterans program or "Simple Wishes for the Holidays."

Daniel: A fishing trip on Lake Erie

Bobbie: Piano lessons

Bill: Attended a Buffalo Bills preseason game & went on the field

Sharon: Traveled to visit her ailing Dad

Senior Wishes/UCHS, One Fox Run Lane, Orchard Park. NY 14127

Wendy Miller Backman, Executive Director

phone - 716-508-2121 | fax - 716-662-6985

wbackman@uchsinc.org

www.seniorwishes.org