CAREFREE, AZ — A group of Valley volunteers has been visiting neighbors who need some extra love this holiday season due to COVID-19.
Members of the Foothills Caring Corps in Carefree stopped at 80 homes all over the Northeast Valley this week to visit seniors and adults who have disabilities.
The goal is to spread some holiday cheer to those who've been stuck inside during the pandemic.
The nonprofit primarily serves seniors, providing support, in-home services, transportation, and outings to restaurants, theaters, shopping, and other events.
"With COVID, we couldn't do any of that. We know how much our seniors are isolated, so we thought, 'Well, we'll come to them,'" said Donna Guerin, the van program manager for Foothills Caring Corps.
This week, they've stopped in Carefree, Cave Creek, North Scottsdale, and North Phoenix. They visit people from all backgrounds.
One of those stops Friday was to see Mary Lynn in North Scottsdale. She's 88 and lives alone.
"Occasionally I like to know that I'm not invisible," she said.
For many of these neighbors, this may be the most company they'll have in months, and they're grateful for the love.
"It brightens up my whole day," said Lynn.
The volunteers said it's a privilege to be a part of the "holiday joy convoy."
"We get more joy I think that some of the people we visit. It's very fulfilling to bring them some happiness and it's the true meaning of the holidays is to really serve others," said Guerin.
"It's just wonderful to make such a difference. The surprise and the absolute raw emotion that we see, because genuinely they have not seen anybody for so long. It's really, it's heartwarming," said Susie Dymoke.
The nonprofit runs thanks to volunteers and donations. They're always looking for more help.
You can learn more about volunteer opportunities and donations by clicking here.
