10,000 low-income seniors get surprised with Christmas gifts

It can be hard to know what to buy your grandparents for Christmas. They always say it’s the thought that counts, even though they give you whatever your heart desires.

Well, look no further than this list of the most wishlisted items by seniors across Western Canada, compiled with the help of London Drugs.

The drugstore ran a “Stocking Stuffing for Seniors” campaign this winter to help make the holidays brighter for thousands of Canadian seniors in need.

Originating in BC’s Okanagan, the campaign grew to Edmonton in 2015, and this year went chain-wide across all stores in Western Canada.

The chain partnered with hundreds of low-income, assisted living, or palliative care seniors’ organizations to deliver gifts bought by customers to seniors.

In a release, store manager Perry Lubberding said it was emotional for staff to see seniors request simple gifts the younger generation wouldn’t even consider.

“It’s eye-opening to go through the seniors’ wish lists and learn what they have asked for, when many of the items are things we tend to take for granted,” said Lubberding.

Once London Drugs had collected the gifts from customers, they had Santa deliver the personalized presents to seniors around Western Canada.

Santa handing out presents to seniors for London Drugs in the Stocking Stuffers for Seniors campaign (London Drugs)

Santa handing out presents to seniors for London Drugs in the Stocking Stuffers for Seniors campaign (London Drugs)

Lubberding said the store’s employees can be immensely proud of the campaign, which has been an “amazing way” to connect with seniors during the holidays.

“To be part of something so special where we get to deliver these items the seniors asked for while also providing a quick visit during an often lonely time of the year, is simply remarkable,” said Lubberding.

“We cannot thank our customers enough for joining us to support this effort.”

Santa handing out presents to seniors for London Drugs in the Stocking Stuffers for Seniors campaign (London Drugs)

Santa handing out presents to seniors for London Drugs in the Stocking Stuffers for Seniors campaign (London Drugs)

So what were the most requested items from seniors in Western Canada? Here’s the full rundown.

Top 10 Christmas presents most requested by seniors

1. Blankets or throws
2. Slippers or socks
3. Candy and chocolate
4. Coffee or travel mugs
5. Warm clothes such as gloves or scarves
6. Paper products such as paper towels and tissues
7. Gift cards for groceries and toiletries
8. Books or magazines
9. Board games or puzzles
10. Kitchen essentials

Sometimes it really is all about the simple things in life.

Of course, there’s one more thing that should be on this list, that’s not available in any store – and that’s a visit from family and friends.

So go out there and get your grandma what she really needs for Christmas – and then go spend some quality time with her. She deserves it. 🎁