Kansas City volunteers spread love, warm hearts of local seniors for Valentine’s Day

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – A local health care service is spreading Valentine’s Day love to seniors across Kansas City through handwritten cards designed to show elderly residents they are not alone.

It starts with a piece of paper, a marker, and a sweet message. Senior Helpers organized the card-writing effort to combat isolation among seniors.

“They get very isolated. Mobility issues make it very difficult for them to get out and socialize,” said Kathi Spray, Sales and Marketing Director for Senior Helpers. “So, bringing a card to them makes them feel valued and seen and loved and really brightens their whole day.”

Volunteer Jeanie Fracassa has seen firsthand how the cards make a difference.

“I take care of a gentleman that has no family or friends. Well, excuse me, I’m his friend. And I know that it means a lot to him when they give him cards or little gifts where he stays,” Fracassa said.

A local health care service is spreading Valentine’s Day love to seniors across Kansas City... — A local health care service is spreading Valentine’s Day love to seniors across Kansas City through handwritten cards designed to show elderly residents they are not alone.(Jiani Navarro, KCTV5)

She returned this year to help with the effort, knowing the impact of the simple gesture.

“It just means a lot knowing that if they’re by themselves on Valentine’s Day, at least they have a card that they’ve received from somebody,” Fracassa said. “If there’s like 500 cards going out there to people that maybe don’t get any cards. They kind of have contact with somebody and it’s fun to write little messages for them in there.”

Spray recalled delivering a card to a senior battling cancer that boosted his spirits.

“We found out later that that was his last Valentine’s Day, and he passed away not too long after we delivered the card,” Spray said.

The experience reinforced why the organization continues the effort.

“If we can make a senior smile or brighten their day, it makes it all worth it,” Spray said.

For some seniors, the cards feel like a visit from a grandchild. Spray said the simplest messages often mean the most.

“The kids’ cards are my favorite because they’re just so pure and honest. They say things like we love you, we’re thinking about you, you’re not alone, we hope you have a good day, and lots of love and hugs. So those are always the best cards,” Spray said.