Adopt-a-resident program lifts spirits for Shakopee long-term care residents during COVID-19 pandemic

Residents at a long-term care facility in Shakopee have a reason to smile during what’s been a difficult year.

A new program matching residents with pen pals is getting an overwhelming response and inspiring similar initiatives at other facilities.

"I got that from a 13-year-old and a 7-year-old, a boy and a girl, and they thought I would enjoy that," 95-year-old Ina explained, holding up a stuffed dog on her first Zoom call ever.

"I got some banana bread, a Rice Krispie and I got homemade peanut brittle," she added, holding up her goodies.

Ina lives at Shakopee Friendship Manor, a long-term care facility that posted pictures on social media asking people to adopt a resident in December.

The response has been overwhelming.

"Within days, we have had so much stuff delivered we dedicated a room because we have so many gifts and gift bags and presents being delivered," Director of Social Services Jamie Mohlin explained.

Like so many others during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 54 residents inside have been isolated.

The facility hopes this program will boost spirits.

"We’re always looking for new ways to keep it light around here and bring a little hope to these guys, especially around Christmas," Mohlin said.

Shakopee Friendship Manor is trying something else too, building a plexiglass booth with two sides.

With the cold weather, families can now come into the booth to see and chat with their loved ones inside.

"It’s been a huge success we have people all day almost every day here utilizing it, so it’s been really helpful," Mohlin said.

Ina says she’s heard from people as far away as Pennsylvania and loves it.

"You don’t have to give us gifts, just give us a card, we appreciate that too, very much," Ina said.

They’re simple acts of kindness that are so appreciated, especially now.

"I’ve gotten so many nice things from the pen pals I can’t even remember them all," Ina shared.

"It makes me feel like I did something right," she said with a smile.

Other communities have shared social media posts with interest in doing something similar for their neighbors in long-term living facilities.