Social isolation is predominantly found in nursing homes and other such facilities which can lead to depression, dementia, and other mentally or physically limiting disorders in senior citizens. According to nih.gov, about 40 percent of the elderly in care facilities experience loneliness which is negatively correlated with quality of life. Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, mental issues have been increasingly developed in these settings, and combating such situations has been taking more effort than ever before.

To help fight the onset of such diseases this year, MHS students Deeptha Posa, Kranthi Junnotula, Teagan O’Brien, and Vedika Reddy started Sending Sunshine, a community service club focused on making cards to send to senior citizens. Junnotula shares, “I volunteered at a senior living center, and through the experience, I found that I wanted to make more of an impact on the senior community… It’s a way to connect past generations to the newer generations which I really value.” The officers expressed that they “love seeing students come together to support the community around us.” 

Club members spread positivity by adding uplifting messages and vibrant art to their cards. They receive volunteer hours for their time at club meetings. Meetings are held every other Wednesday in Mrs. Van Der Kwast’s room.