By Riley Fontana
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Medfield Library makes everyone feel included, and elders are no exception. Recently, the library held a letter-writing event to help connect elders across the nation through an organization called Love For Our Elders, focusing on sharing kindness with strangers.
Love For Our Elders is a nationwide organization that aims to end loneliness within the elderly population. Each month, a handful of people are chosen from nominations, and people are asked to write letters to them. The Medfield Library decided to offer its support and invited patrons to join in an afternoon of kindness.
This month, eight people across America were chosen to be honored: Herbert, Verdie Ann, Shirley, Ann, Dotre, Clarence, Fred, and Eric. These individuals, located across the U.S., had diverse interests, including gardening, quilting, bargain hunting, and being neighborhood icons. Each person had been nominated by a family member or close friend concerned about their loneliness.
The small group that gathered to write letters found comfort in the activity, knowing they were helping someone feel loved and seen. After initial awkwardness in writing to a stranger, participants focused on card choices and decorations. Everyone aimed to write a letter to each elder, hoping to receive the same kindness when they age.
The mild conversation as everyone wrote letters and addressed envelopes touched on shared fears of aging and the hope that organizations like this bring. Participants expressed their admiration for Love For Our Elders and its mission. Once all the letters were written and addressed, the library sent them out to the recipients.
Love For Our Elders provides an easy way to engage with a community that can often be forgotten. Their website, loveforourelders.org, has information and addresses of this month's seniors. Cards and letters are accepted, with a few simple guidelines found on their website. Anyone is welcome to participate and write a letter to one or all of the elders.
