Old age is a time when people wish to be surrounded by those dear to them; a time when senior citizens may yearn for some compassion and support.

When I was younger, I remember seeing homeless elderly people back in my hometown and as a result my inability to help them was a concern.

Today when I hear of local efforts or the availability of resources where I could contribute to the betterment in the life of an elderly citizen, I make sure to give it my all.

If for some reason you thought there was a lack of opportunities in Pearl River County to extend an helping hand to our senior citizens, fret not, the holiday season provides many such avenues to show compassion to many people in the community.

The Senior Center of South Pearl River County is spearheading one such effort. It is the annual Adopt a Senior Snowflake event. Staff and volunteers of the center invite individuals and businesses to show their support by adopting a senior citizen. To accomplish that, organizers are requesting a $25 gift card to a local store of their choice that will be distributed among senior citizens in need. The list of the citizens in need is compiled by the senior center so you know that your donation will be put to the best possible use.

Senior citizens receiving these donations are predominately living in low-income households and as such have difficulties in making ends meet.

Therefore, this Christmas season if you want to contribute to the spirit of giving and make a difference in someone’s life, be sure to contribute to this cause before the deadline of Dec. 22.