Melissa Lehman

On Friday, Dec. 14 and Monday, Dec. 17, Stormy and Carolina Hurricanes staff members visited four local senior centers to spread holiday cheer. “Stormy Claus” and staff dressed in festive attire and delivered trays of fruit and cookies to about 200 seniors at Tucker Street Center, Garner Senior Center, Luther Green Community Center and East Wake Senior Center.

Fifteen Hurricanes staff members split up to spend about an hour at each location. We played bingo and gave out exciting Hurricanes prizes including t-shirts, hats, bobble heads, coffee mugs, wall clings and cups. Stormy, who visited the Tucker Street location near downtown Raleigh, took turns between calling the bingo squares and participating in the competition with the seniors. The seniors enjoyed the company and prizes from the Hurricanes. Many even wanted to snap a quick picture with Stormy at the end of bingo. The centers were also very welcoming and grateful to have extra food and entertainment to celebrate the holiday season.

Hurricanes staff members enjoyed the visits, as well. Some played bingo with seniors while a few had the opportunity to call out the numbers, a task which is more difficult than it sounds. Fortunately, the seniors were able to help us figure out the correct pace and strategy for a game that can become very competitive.

Each of the senior centers serves free, congregate lunches Monday through Friday to anyone over the age of 60. Seniors must call for reservations and fill out an application when they arrive. Sponsored by Meals on Wheels of Wake County, the centers rely on donations and grants to serve our local seniors. Thanks to many generous donations, these senior centers are able to provide companionship and nutritious meals to the elderly, who otherwise might spend their morning and lunch alone at their homes.

Meals on Wheels of Wake County and its partner senior centers serve an important need for the elderly in our community. We are grateful for their efforts and for the opportunity to partner with the senior centers to help achieve their mission.

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