PERRY COUNTY, IL (WSIL) -- A Pinckneyville native is back home spreading some Christmas cheer to local senior citizens with a project called Adopt a Resident.
Kaitlyn Lacy organized getting 76-residents adopted in four days with the help of social media. Kaitlyn's mom and best friend work at local senior care facilities, so when she learned how the pandemic limited visitation and access to family and loved ones, she asked what she could do to help.
Kaitlyn got the Christmas wish lists from residents, whose names remained confidential. Once she put the post up on her Facebook page, it took no time for the community to step up and start adopting.
"I'm still really connected in the community, and when my mom and my best friend are here and working in these care facilities, I wanted to make a difference," said Kaitlyn.
All the items from the wishlists are dropped-off at L3 Boutique in Pinckneyville. Katilyn has done this project while living in Alexandria, Virginia. She is now in Pinckneyville for the holidays. L3 owner, Lisa Heine, has known Kaitlyn for about five years. She got emotional when she was thinking about how proud of Kaitlyn she is.
"The fact that the girl is remote teaching in Washington D.C. and her heart is still in Pinckneyville says a lot about her character," said Lisa.
Kaitlyn said, since everyone is already adopted, they could still use other donations like boxes, tape, gift wrap, and extra gifts to give the residents all year round for game prizes.
Kaitlyn said the residents also like snacks such as candy, soda, and chips. December 20 is the last day to donate those times. The following day the pair plan to wrap the gifts and deliver them.
If you would like to know more, check out the page. The shop is located at 16 S. Walnut St in Pinckneyville.
