In November 2016, my sister Cindy and I faced a challenging decision: moving our mother from Assisted Living to a Memory Care facility. As we helped her settle into her new room, I asked a caregiver about their annual Christmas party for families and how they managed gifts brought by loved ones. Her response was eye-opening. She explained that although they held a small luncheon, most residents did not receive gifts or have visitors during the holidays. Some dedicated staff members tried to provide small gifts, but their resources were limited. This revelation struck me deeply and stayed with me.

On the drive home, I called Cindy, and together we brainstormed how we could gather presents for the 35 residents in our mother’s new facility. We decided to create a Facebook post and share it on local Buy-Sell-Trade sites to gauge interest. To our amazement, within 24 hours, local businesses offered to be drop-off points, groups volunteered to make quilts, hats, and walker bags, and many individuals expressed their eagerness to help. By December 21st, we delivered gifts and stockings to 116 seniors across four facilities. In 2023, our incredible communities had expanded their support, providing gifts to 2,896 seniors in 52 facilities across Idaho and New Jersey.

Allona’s Angels, named in honor of our beloved mother, was founded on the belief that these extraordinary individuals deserve compassionate care, regular visits, heartfelt hugs, and simple gestures of remembrance. Thanks to the efforts of hundreds of generous people, we are able to fulfill these needs.

We remain committed to ensuring that many seniors are cherished during the holiday season and look forward to working with all of you to bring this meaningful mission to life.