Nana's Lil' Helpers
Helping nursing home residents celebrate Christmas one gift at a time.
We are an organization dedicated to providing Christmas gifts to low- income nursing home residents. Our mission is to spread joy and cheer to those who may not have the means to celebrate the holiday season. With the help of generous donors, we aim to make Christmas a special time for all. Everyone deserves to feel loved and valued. As a community, we have the power to make this a reality, one gift at a time.
Last day to donate is December 13th
How We Help
At Nana's Lil' Helpers, we are dedicated to helping low-income nursing home residents celebrate Christmas by providing gift donations. Our goal is to bring joy and happiness to those who may not have the means to celebrate the holiday season. We believe that every elderly person should be able to enjoy the spirit of Christmas, and we work hard to make that happen.
Volunteer Opportunities
We rely on the help of volunteers to make our mission a reality. By volunteering with us, you can make a difference in the lives of nursing home residents. Whether it's becoming a drop box location, passing out fliers, or simply spreading the word, your contribution is valuable and appreciated. Click below for a printable flyer if you would like to help us spread the word.
Gift Donations
We are always in need of donations to make our gift-giving program a success. Your donation can provide a warm blanket, a cozy pair of slippers, pajamas, comfy outfits, toiletries, or a heartfelt card to a nursing home resident in need. Every donation counts. *New unwrapped items*
Most commonly requested items:
(List created with the help of nurses and social workers)
* Pajamas
* Jogging suit sets
* Sweaters/Vests
* Blankets
* Beanies and gloves
* Slippers
* Socks (both regular and non-slip)
* Reading glasses (your local dollar store is great for these!)
* Toiletry sets
(shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
​
Get Involved
Thank you for your interest in Nana's Lil' Helpers donation drive. You can easily contribute by dropping off a new, unwrapped gift at one of our convenient drop box locations. If you're short on time, you can still help by using our Amazon wish list, curated with input from nurses and social workers.Click the wish list link at the top of the page for our Amazon picks. You can even donate via our PayPal link at the bottom of the home page. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Vista:
The Original Mr. Taco: 2215 S. Melrose Dr. #106/107
MTM Upholstery: 1334 N. Melrose Dr.
Sign Art Graphix: 1930 S. Santa Fe Ave.
A&D Glass: 1903 W. Vista Way
Boba Hut & Deli: 1680 S. Melrose Dr.
Oceanside:
EXCEL Jiu-jitsu & MMA
Carlsbad:
Edwards Jones: 3129 Tiger Run Ct. #112
San Marcos:
SLS Automotive: 371 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd. Ste. 103
Fallbrook:
The Coal Bunker Restaurant: 232 S Main Ave Fallbrook, 92028
The Foundation for Senior Care: 135 S. Mission Rd. Fallbrook, 92088
TESTIMONIALS
It’s always been such a great blessing having Nana’s Lil’ Helpers reaching out to all our residents here at Vista View Post Acute during the holidays. Our Residents always look forward to all your special Christmas gifts. Thank you so much for your unconditional love, caring and touching the hearts of all our Residents in the community.
May you continue to spread the real spirit of the holiday seasons. May God continue to Bless you and your household/helpers and your superb community holiday culture and tradition.
​
​
Vista View Post Acute Staff and Residents
Thank you for my excellent scarf and beanie. The gifts you provided were tasteful and high quality. Thank you so much.
Michael Crosby *Resident at La Fuentes Post Accute*
The Mission
This mission started in 2019 when my grandmother was placed in a nursing home. When my Nana's clothes began disappearing, a nurse informed me that unlabeled clothes were distributed to residents who had none. That's when I realized I had to step in and help. Click the link below for the detailed story.
-
What nursing homes will be receiving the gifts?Each year, we aim to add a new nursing home to our list, and so far we have donated to: Vista Knoll, Vista View, Everest Oceanside, Village Square, Fallbrook Skilled Nursing, Palomar Vista (Escondido), Life Care Escondido, and Santa Fe Post Acute."
-
What items are most requested?Each year, we reach out to social workers and nursing staff for resident feedback. Currently, the most commonly requested items include: pajama sets and gowns, jogger sets, blankets, toiletry sets (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, etc.), reading glasses, sweaters and vests, and activities to keep them engaged, such as crossword puzzles, coloring books, and card games.
-
Can I sponsor a specific resident?Absolutely! Many of our residents have little to call their own and would truly appreciate receiving a gift. If you're interested in adopting a specific resident, please reach out to us at NanasLilHelpers@gmail.com
-
How do I know the gifts will actually get to the residents?We share all of our deliveries on our social media platforms for you to enjoy! While we are unable to hand gifts directly to residents due to HIPAA regulations, we personally deliver them to the activities directors and social workers, who ensure they go to residents in need. Each gift is carefully wrapped and labeled with gender and size to help with proper distribution.
-
Can I make a monetary donation?Of course! You can make a monetary donation by clicking the PayPal link at the bottom of our page. 100% of your donation goes directly toward gifts for local nursing home residents.
-
How can I volunteer?There are many ways to volunteer with Nana's Lil' Helpers! If you're interested in getting involved, please email us at NanasLilHelpers@gmail.com. We've been fortunate to grow each year. Last year alone, we sorted, wrapped, and delivered over 700 gifts to local nursing home residents. If you're looking for a more personal way to connect, consider calling your local nursing home to ask about their pen pal program. Positions often needed: Flier distributors Gift Wrappers Donation pick-ups Drop box coordinators
-
Can I get a picture with the residents?Due to HIPAA regulations, we are not permitted to take photographs of the residents. While we understand this may be disappointing, it’s important that we respect each resident’s privacy and comply with the law. Occasionally, a resident will choose to share a photo or letter with us, and with their permission, we’re proud to post those special moments on our website and social media.
-
Where does the Amazon wish list ship to?The Amazon Wish List items will ship directly to us, where they’ll be lovingly wrapped and prepared for delivery. If you choose to include a note with your gift, we’ll make sure it’s included when we wrap it.
Want to promote your business and make a difference?
We’re offering ad banner placements on our website in exchange for a donation.
100% of your contribution will go directly to supporting local nursing home residents.
To get started, email us at NanasLilHelpers@gmail.com and we’ll help you get featured!
In Loving Memory of Audrey Bourné (Nana)
1941-2022
"Nana, I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support in raising me. Your legacy lives on through the love, compassion, and drive to succeed that you instilled in me."
