Third grader delivers handmade holiday wishes to assisted living residents

It was “Merry Christmas” and “Thank you” all around Clark Jeary Assisted Living as third grader Syllas Parker made her rounds.

It’s because she had something very special to give the residents- a dose of handmade holiday cheer.

“I came caroling here with my girl scout troop,” the nine year old said. “I saw how happy it made everybody so I decided I wanted to hand out Christmas cards to them.”

She designed cards and had them printed by Goldenrod Printing, and set a goal to deliver 1,000 to residents of assisted living facilities and nursing homes across Lincoln.

She took the first batch to Clark Jeary on Friday.

One resident, Marileen Holtcher, is a former teacher. She said seeing Syllas reminded her of how much she loves spending time with children.

“She’s just a wonderful gal,” Holtcher said.

Parker said her favorite part of making the deliveries is seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces.

“I hope they think that I was thinking of them,” Parker said.

Holtcher said it may be just what nursing home residents need during the holidays.

“This is going to mean a lot,” Holtcher said. “Especially to those in care homes who can’t get out and can’t get around.”

Clark Jeary was Parker’s first stop. She had also made visits to The Landing and Savannah Pines by Friday afternoon.