The holiday season is officially here, and at Eco Guardian, that means the return of one of our most meaningful traditions: Santa for a Senior. Now in its fourth year, this program has become a cherished way for our team and our community to bring a little extra magic to local long-term care residents who deserve to feel remembered, valued, and celebrated.
This year, we’re proud to support seniors at Mackenzie Place Long Term Care Home and Eagle Terrace Nursing. With help from care-home staff, we’ve gathered the names and holiday wishes of each participating resident and placed them onto ornaments that now hang on the Christmas tree in our office. Every ornament represents a real person – someone with a story, with memories, with favourite treats or cozy comforts that can make their season a little brighter.
And we’re inviting you to be part of that joy.
How it works
Community members are welcome to stop by our Eco Guardian office, choose an ornament from our tree, and become a “Santa” for that senior.
This initiative goes beyond gift-giving. It’s an act of kindness that reminds someone they haven’t been forgotten.
Why this initiative matters
For many seniors, the holidays aren’t always easy. Some may not have family nearby. Others may spend the season quietly; without visitors or traditions they once cherished. That’s why even a small, heartfelt gift can mean so much. It brings a moment of joy, a warm smile, and a reminder that their community cares.
Our Santa for a Senior program gives all of us the chance to offer more than just a gift.
It’s a moment of connection, a reminder of dignity, and a way to help someone feel seen.
And year after year, we’ve witnessed just how much these small acts matter. The joy on residents’ faces, the warmth in the room during gift drop-offs, and the stories shared with staff are the moments that keep this tradition growing.
How to participate
If you’d like to help make a senior’s holiday a little brighter, here’s how you can join in:
🎄Stop by our office
Pick an ornament from our Christmas tree. Each one represents a senior’s wish.
🎁Shop for their gift
Please keep gifts unwrapped so care-home staff can ensure everything is safe and appropriate.
📅Drop off your gift by December 17
Location: Eco Guardian
100 Harry Walker Pkwy N
Newmarket, ON L3Y 7B2
Phone: (905) 235-4015
Thank you for helping us spread holiday magic
From our Eco Guardian family to yours, thank you for helping us make this season a little warmer for the seniors in our community. Together, we can bring joy, kindness, and a little extra cheer to those who need it most.