Jefferson’s Ferry Volunteer Squad Helps Neighbors in Need

SETAUKET, N.Y. - Dec. 22, 2014 - PRLog -- Giving back at any age is a way of life for the Lots of Love Club, a team of community volunteers from Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Retirement Community. The dozen or so members of the club, who reside in the skilled nursing and assisted living accommodations at Jefferson’s Ferry, regularly raise funds to make donations to various not for profit organizations in the surrounding communities.

The club’s effort is twofold.  First, the club holds a fundraiser on the premises of Jefferson’s Ferry, selling items that they have made to residents, employees and visitors.  They have, for example sold homemade baked goods, chocolate dipped pretzels and holiday ornaments.  With the proceeds, the club then purchases items to donate to a local charity.

“The Lots of Love Club is incredibly dedicated and resourceful,” said Jennifer Barrett, director of therapeutic recreation at the Bove Health Center at Jefferson’s Ferry, who works with the group.  “They don’t let age or ability stand in the way of contributing to those in need.  They raise every dime and spread their generosity around the community.”

This month, Lots of Love is selling a uniform-clad snowman tree ornament to support Operation Calling Card, which distributes overseas calling cards to members of the military deployed overseas. Operation Calling Card holds particular resonance with the club this year, as they recently lost one of the club’s founders, who was a survivor of Pearl Harbor.

Ms. Barrett recently transported the Lots of Love Club to Walmart so that they could purchase baby care products such as diapers and wipes to donate to Riverhead’s Life Touch, which helps single mothers.   The club has also donated boxes of food to the St. Gerard food pantry in Port Jefferson, made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for a shelter in Bay Shore, and bought school supplies for Little Flower Children and Family Services.

In summary, Ms. Barrett said, “The Lots of Love Club makes the spirit of holiday giving a year round commitment.”

About Jefferson’s Ferry (www.jeffersonsferry.org)
Jefferson’s Ferry is a not-for-profit lifecare retirement community for active adults aged 62 and above, with cottages, apartments, assisted living, and a quality health care center all on one site.  Located in South Setauket, a vibrant community along Long Island’s north shore, Jefferson’s Ferry is surrounded by various attractions, shopping, beaches, theaters, and a world-renowned university.  Jefferson’s Ferry offers exceptional living and amenities, including restaurants, fitness center, indoor pool, computer center, library, recreational areas, gardens and gazebos.  A mix of cultural excursions, civic activities, and a community of residents who participate in shaping Jefferson’s Ferry’s future, ensures a spirited and engaged lifestyle.

Photo Caption:  The Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Retirement Community’s Lots of Love Club makes giving back a year round activity.  Lots of Love Club member Mary Bafundi helps select baby care items to be donated to single parents in need of assistance.  The Lots of Love Club raises all the funds they use to purchase needed items for various local charities.