Sonja’s Angels delivers presents to the elderly and special-needs residents at nursing homes as well as local shut-ins without families. Courtesy photo

For more than 17 years, Sonja’s Angels has made it their mission to ensure elderly and special-needs residents in nursing homes — as well as local shut-ins who may no longer have family — are remembered during the holidays.

This year, organizer Tamara Davis said the response from the community has been overwhelming. Nearly every “angel” on the nonprofit’s list has now been adopted, with only a handful still available.

“I only have six left to adopt out, and as long as everyone turns in, then we will be good,” Davis said.

Although most angels have been claimed, Davis said donations are still very much needed, particularly toiletries and everyday essentials that help volunteers complete the gift bags. Items such as baby wipes, body lotion, body wash, razors and shaving cream are running low.

Sonja’s Angels is also hoping to add more joy to its deliveries by assembling “fun boxes” for the nursing home. Davis said large-piece puzzles, craft supplies, board games, yarn and other activity-based gifts would be enjoyed and appreciated, even though they are not required.

The program, which functions much like a traditional children’s angel tree, focuses on seniors and adults with special needs. Donors who have already adopted an angel are asked to return gifts by Dec. 16, with volunteers planning to deliver everything by Dec. 23. Items may be shipped or delivered to Sonja’s Angels at 306 College St. in Farmersville, Texas, 75442.

The nonprofit also offers an Amazon wish list by request. Donors may ship needed items such as socks, gowns, sweats or small gifts in any quantity, with accepted sizes ranging from small to 4XL. Monetary donations, typically $33 per angel, are also accepted and help volunteers purchase remaining needs. Contributions may be made through Cash App at $sonjasangels, Venmo at @Tamera-Davis-3 or PayPal at either @sonjasangels or [email protected].

As a 501(c)(3) organization, Sonja’s Angels operates entirely through community support.

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