“Valentines for Seniors” is a community initiative aimed at spreading love and cheer to local senior citizens. Photo courtesy of Helping Hands OV

ORANGEVALE, CA (MPG) - Helping Hands OV is starting its fourth annual “Valentines for Seniors” campaign, a heartwarming community initiative aimed at spreading love and cheer to local senior citizens.

This year’s drive aims to surpass the 7,199 cards collected in 2024, continuing the tradition of touching the hearts of seniors in need of a little extra love. The goal for 2025 is to collect 8,000 homemade Valentine’s Day cards, which will be distributed to senior care homes, assisted living facilities, independent living communities and more throughout the Sacramento region. 

Grab your paper, glitter, glue and paint because it’s time to create. The card collection period runs from Jan. 15 through Feb. 6 to ensure volunteers have enough time to read, check and prepare each card for distribution. There are 25 drop-off locations throughout Orangevale, Fair Oaks and surrounding areas, making it easy for community members of all ages to participate.

“We are so grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve received from the community in past years and we’re thrilled to see that this tradition is growing stronger,” said Sydnie Anderson, president and founder of Helping Hands OV.

Cyndi Rose of Rose Senior Placement said, “These homemade cards not only brighten the days of seniors but they also serve as a reminder that they are not forgotten. It’s truly a special way for our community to come together and show love during the season of giving.”

The goal for 2025 is to collect 8,000 homemade Valentine’s Day cards, which will be distributed to senior care homes, assisted living facilities, independent living communities and more throughout the Sacramento region. Photo courtesy of Helping Hands OV

Card Guidelines
To ensure the cards are suitable for distribution to senior care facilities, there are a few guidelines for the cards.

Cards should be at least 5.5" x 8.5" or larger. Bigger is better, as it allows for more room for colorful designs and heartfelt messages.

Cards should be homemade, filled with love and free from sharp glitter or any other materials that could be harmful to seniors.

Do not include personal contact information or identifying details. The cards should only include a first name or “from your neighbor.”

While envelopes are not required as cards will be distributed in bulk to various facilities, they are much appreciated as a donation for Helping Hands OV’s Easter program.

The drop-off locations for “Valentines for Seniors” are listed on Helping Hands OV’s Facebook page, as well as on its website at helpinghandsov.wixsite.com/helpinghandsov.

The card collection period runs from Jan. 15 through Feb. 6. Photo courtesy of Helping Hands OV

About Helping Hands OV
Helping Hands OV is a nonprofit organization based in Orangevale and Fair Oaks, assisting low income, elderly and disabled residents with small household tasks they cannot do or afford on their own. Through various volunteer-driven initiatives, Helping Hands OV strives to foster connection, compassion and care for community members, ensuring that they feel loved and supported year-round.

For more information and/or volunteer opportunities, email [email protected], call 916-426-8583 or go on Facebook at @HelpingHandsOV.