Nassau County Community Comes Together to Brighten the Holidays with Santas for Seniors

FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — The Nassau County Council on Aging (NCCOA) is proud to celebrate the tremendous success of its 6th Annual Santas for Seniors gift drive, made possible by an outpouring of generosity from the Nassau County community.

Thanks to overwhelming public support, NCCOA collected enough gifts and monetary donations to serve 94 local seniors, ensuring each recipient received two thoughtfully filled jumbo gift bags along with a gift card to help meet everyday needs. On Friday, December 12, more than 40 dedicated volunteers gathered to sort, wrap, and personally deliver gifts to seniors throughout the county, spreading holiday cheer and meaningful connection.

“This event is a powerful reminder of what a blessing it is to live in a community that truly values its seniors,” said Janice Ancrum, President & CEO of the Nassau County Council on Aging. “The kindness shown through Santas for Seniors extends far beyond the holidays. Our community continues to show up for older adults all year long, and we are deeply grateful for that ongoing support.”

Volunteer & Outreach Director Chris Fournier, along with Volunteer & Outreach Assistant Shamrin Lullo, led the effort, coordinating volunteers and ensuring the event ran smoothly and efficiently. Their leadership, combined with the enthusiasm of community volunteers and donors, turned the gift drive into a joyful and impactful experience for everyone involved.

NCCOA extends heartfelt thanks to every individual, family, business, and volunteer who contributed to making this year’s Santas for Seniors such a meaningful success. Because of their generosity, dozens of seniors will feel remembered, valued, and cared for this holiday season.

As the season of giving continues, NCCOA invites the community to participate in its upcoming fundraiser, The Giving Wrap, taking place Tuesday, December 16 through Thursday, December 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Janice Ancrum Senior Life Center, located at 1901 Island Walk Way in Fernandina Beach.

During The Giving Wrap, NCCOA will provide professional gift-wrapping services using premium wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, boxes, and personalized tags, all in exchange for a donation benefiting NCCOA. The service is perfect for busy parents, last-minute shoppers, or anyone who simply dislikes wrapping gifts.

For more information about The Giving Wrap or NCCOA’s programs, visit nassaucountycoa.org or contact Chris Fournier, NCCOA Volunteer & Outreach Director at 904.775.5490 or cfournier@nassaucountycoa.org.