LANCASTER – Are you looking for a rewarding way to give back to the community this holiday season? The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Southern California & Nevada Chapter is looking for volunteers and/or donations to make gift baskets for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS ) in the Antelope Valley who are part of the Caring Connection program.
As often as possible, through the Caring Connection program, volunteers visit people with MS who are living in a licensed care facility, or are homebound and unable to go out into the community. The friendly visitor program helps provide a connection to the outside world, emotional support, companionship and social interaction.
During the holiday season, the National MS Society tries to do even more, by delivering gift baskets to this group.
They request items as small as chapstick and lotion, to DVDs, large print books, holiday decorations and personal hygiene products.
Chocolate is the most popular request on the 2012 wish lists.
“I think the baskets are very important because so many people living with MS are isolated. Some do not have a holiday at all,” explains Chapter trustee Lisa Karpe. “No gift is too small.”
If you or someone you know would like to sponsor a person with MS by creating or assembling a gift basket, or if you would like to donate any products, contact local self-help group leader Missy Larson at 661-406-0741.
If you would like more information on how to volunteer with the Caring Connection program, call the National MS Society at 661-321-9512, or email christine.grontkowski@nmss.org.
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