What starts with markers, paper and a little creativity at Reno Public Market is meant to travel far beyond Midtown, reaching seniors who might otherwise spend Valentine’s Day alone.
The market will host a hands on card making event Saturday, January 31, from 12 to 3 p.m. at 299 E Plumb Lane in Reno, inviting children and families to help create Valentine’s Day cards for seniors across the area.
The effort is part of a community service project that brings together children, businesses and people to deliver cards to home seniors and people living in assisted living facilities.
Reno Public Market’s Doodle Your Soul program will dedicate its regular arts and crafts session to the project, with all supplies provided so children can make cards on site during the event.
You can make your own Valentine's cards for local seniors in assisted living homes and senior centers.
The project is led by Sparks High School alumni Rikki Melanaphy, Joe Espana and Donald Abbott and is now in its 6th year. Reno Public Market is one of two drop off locations supporting the drive.
Last year, organizers collected a record 7,331 Valentine’s Day cards for local seniors and are hoping to top that number this year.
There are two upcoming deadlines for donations. By February 1 at 5 p.m., organizers need 1,100 cards to go out with Meals on Wheels. By February 4 at 7 p.m., the overall goal is 3,500 cards, including the Meals on Wheels total, so sorting and delivery can begin the following week.
People who want to help, whether by making a small batch of cards or a larger one, can sign up through an online form at the Valentine's cards for senior citizens webpage.
More information about Reno Public Market is available at renopublicmarket.com.
