Though the holidays looked much different this year due to the pandemic, staff did all they could to make sure Participants had a great time celebrating in the comfort of their homes.
They planned Hanukkah celebrations which consisted of traditional and delicious foods like roast beef and gravy, matzo ball soup and latkes.Participants enjoyed the festive meals and had fun learning how to play dreidel.
As Christmas quickly approached, they spent time decorating their homes, making ornaments for their trees,
baking gingerbread cookies, watching holiday movies and creating cards for their friends and family.
The Strohmayer family, who usually brings holiday magic to Lambs Farm by decorating and planning a special holiday get together for Lambs Farm Participants, were able to safely carry on their heartwarming tradition for the residents at Green-Field. They coordinated with staff to send gifts, surprised the Participants with a dessert table full of treats made with love at the Magnolia Cafe & Bakery and ordered holiday props for fun photos.
The Strohmayers certainly missed singing Christmas carols, drinking hot chocolate and visiting with the men and women of Lambs Farm in-person, but they were excited and felt extremely blessed to help make their holidays brighter. After receiving party photos from staff and a stack of thank you cards, their hearts were full of love and gratitude which they believe is the greatest gift of all.
Our generous friends at Astellas also made the holidays extra special this year. They worked with staff to create a wish list and surprised the men and women of Lambs Farm with new TVs and karaoke machines. They also sent each Participant on campus a gift card to shop online.
On Christmas Eve, Santa Elvis delivered the gifts to the houses, and Participants were beaming with excitement.
This holiday season was far from normal, but with the support from staff, families and volunteers, the men and women of Lambs Farm were able to find joy during the greatest time of year. We are hopeful that 2021 will be brighter and look forward to celebrating a big milestone — our 60th anniversary!