Opal’s Programs
Opal’s work to restore dignity, respect, and joy to seniors in long-term care is achieved through 2 Broad program areas
Music, Arts, recreation, and culture
Engagement with art & music provides substantial mental health benefits, and is effective in reducing depression, while recreation is a key component of life satisfaction. Since 2012, we’ve provided arts & craft supplies, art instruction, jukeboxes, musical instruments, and live performers to entertain our seniors. We encourage community-building by funding social gatherings and group activities, including gardening - which we’ve encouraged by donating hand-made garden boxes, plants, soil, and tools!
Care packages
Our seniors lack financial resources, and many have no family to support them; for some, our care packages will be the only gifts they receive throughout the holiday season. Thanks to our generous supporters and volunteers, this program has grown each year - providing more and higher quality items and serving an incredible 7,000 individuals! Care Packages include items such as socks, activity books, hygiene supplies, and food items.
Food Distribution
Thanks to our corporate partners, like Core-Mark, we are able to make semi-regular deliveries of food & snack items to seniors at nearly 2 dozen nursing homes in Jefferson, Hardin, and surrounding counties. These food items are individually packaged, do not require refrigeration or preparation, and are given directly to residents.