United Way of Central Kansas is once again providing a Box of Love to homebound seniors this Valentine’s Day. This project is done in partnership with ElderCare Home Services and Meals on Wheels, with boxes also being delivered to clients of Golden Belt Home Health and Hospice and Almost Home. 

“Each year this project gets a little bit bigger, and this year is no exception,” said UWCK Executive Director Gaila Demel, noting she is excited to bring this project back. With even more seniors staying home due to COVID-19, UWCK is anticipating at least an additional 50 boxes this year. 

“Due to the current pandemic, UWCK decided to change things up a bit this year,” she said. Rather than collecting donated items from the community, they reached out to business leaders to help us put the boxes together. 

“Thanks to these donors, we will be providing chocolate bars, lip balm, hand sanitizer, cold/hot packs, and postage stamps,” Demel said. The sponsors this year are MPIRE Realty Group, Edward Jones Investments-Kris Sundahl, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church (White Sunday Gifts), Thrivent Financial Services, and Office Products Inc. 

Every year, they also partner with local daycares, schools, and church groups to make sure that each package has homemade Valentine’s Day cards from local children. “These are the hit of the project each year and we are grateful to all the centers, classrooms, organizations, and individuals who help to brighten the day of a homebound senior,” she said. 

Anyone who  would like to contribute a Valentines Day card or make a monetary donation to the project can reach out to United Way of Central Kansas at 620-792-2403 or on Facebook. Contributions can be sent to the office at 1125 Williams, Great Bend, KS 67530.