A VERY HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

Kindergarteners from Benton Hall Academy show off their Valentine’s Day cards that they made for the residents of Rockton Plaza and Alpine Rehabilitation & Nursing. Over 500 valentines from students and Holy Family Parish were delivered to residents on Feb. 13. (Provided photos)

Over 500 valentines from Benton Hall Academy and Holy Family Parish were delivered to residents of Rockton Plaza and Alpine Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Little Falls on Feb. 13. The cards were provided via a team effort between the parish, the elementary school and the Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN). Benton Hall students were guided by their teachers to create valentines for the residents, using craft materials purchased and organized by their school’s ICAN Wellness coordinator, Haley Wood. Members of Holy Family Parish — children and adults alike — filled a basket inside the church with a combination of handmade and store-bought cards. The cards were then rounded up and delivered Feb. 13 by the project coordinators. The valentines were a big hit among the residents!

A parishioner from Holy Family Parish drops a valentine in the collection basket.

 The goal behind this project was to lift the hearts of residents at Rockton Plaza and the Alpine nursing home during Valentine’s Day, reminding them they are loved. 

“I am sure that the staff at Rockton Plaza and Alpine treat the residents with great care,” said Rick Hartman, Benton Hall teacher and parish trustee. “Plus, many of the residents likely have close family and friends who talk and visit with them. However, you never know whom people have in their lives and how often they get to talk to them. We can also imagine the loved ones they may have already lost. We just wanted the residents to know that we all care about them, and we hoped to help them feel special on Valentine’s Day.”

A stack of finished valentines ready for delivery.

 Hartman also expressed his appreciation to school and parish leaders for green lighting the project; for Rockton Plaza and Alpine’s approval and assistance; for ICAN’s tremendous help; for the teachers patiently using class time to assist their students; and for the support shared by the faculty and staff. 

Hartman was especially thankful to all of the participating students, parishioners and community members who showed obvious love and care in their cards. Two of his favorite parts of the project: Watching his students enthusiastically make their cards while wearing bright, genuine smiles, plus being able to read all of the sweet cards that weren’t already sealed in envelopes. 

“It definitely was a heart-warming experience. Hopefully it will become a holiday tradition!” he said.