SACCOUNTY NEWS

​It’s the second week in February, which means love is in the air, the price of roses has skyrocketed, and just about everywhere you look, you’re reminded that Valentine’s Day is almost here. Whether you have a special someone to share the day with, or you try to avoid it all together, it’s hard to deny that receiving a special something on Valentine’s Day makes you feel good. This good feeling is what the Valentine’s Day Basket program and Soroptimist International of Sacramento  try to evoke for seniors in the Sacramento community.

The Valentine’s Day Basket program was started almost 20 years ago, when the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) partnered with Soroptimist International of Sacramento to bring Valentine joy to seniors in the community. This year, Soroptimist donated 27 baskets, which are being delivered to conservatees*, and senior clients in the Sacramento County Senior and Adult Services Program.  Social workers are delivering the baskets throughout the week.

Soroptimist International is the world’s largest classified service organization, established for professional and business women. The Sacramento branch has more than 70 members who represent a diverse range of executive and professional working and retired women. Their mission is to improve the lives of women and girls through service projects in the local community. Without the generosity of this organization, the Valentine’s Day Basket program would not exist.

“Unlike Christmas, a Valentine’s Day gift is more unexpected,” says Tammy Liu, Volunteer Program Coordinator for DHHS. “It’s uplifting; many of the recipients are very isolated and are extremely surprised to receive a gift on Valentine’s Day.”

If you would like to learn more about the Valentine’s Day Basket program or other volunteer opportunities with DHHS, contact Tammy Liu, LiuT@saccounty.net.

*A person who has a disability that renders them unable manage their own medical and financial needs without the help of legal advocate.